Ijtihad is an Islamic legal term that refers to the process of independent reasoning or interpretation of Islamic law. It allows scholars to derive legal rulings from the Quran and Hadith when clear guidance is not available. This practice is essential for adapting Islamic principles to new situations and challenges faced by the Muslim community. The concept of Ijtihad emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and scholarly debate in Islam. It is traditionally performed by qualified scholars known as mujtahids, who possess deep knowledge of Islamic texts and jurisprudence. This process helps ensure that Islamic law remains relevant and applicable in changing social and cultural contexts.