MUFTI

MUFTI carries two distinct meanings that reflect both religious scholarship and everyday civilian life. In Islamic tradition, a mufti is a highly qualified legal scholar authorized to issue fatwas—formal rulings or interpretations on questions of Islamic law (sharia). These scholars undergo extensive training in Islamic jurisprudence, Quranic studies, and hadith (prophetic traditions) to earn the authority to guide Muslim communities on religious matters.

The second meaning of mufti, particularly common in British and Commonwealth English, refers to civilian clothes worn by someone who typically wears a uniform. Military personnel, police officers, or other uniformed professionals are said to be "in mufti" when dressed in ordinary street clothes rather than their official uniform. This usage dates from British colonial times in India, where British officers adopted the term from its Islamic context.

As an Islamic legal authority, a mufti serves a crucial role in Muslim societies. Unlike a qadi (judge) who rules on specific legal cases, a mufti provides scholarly opinions that can guide both individuals and communities. Their fatwas address questions ranging from personal religious practice to complex social, economic, and political issues. Prominent muftis often hold positions like Grand Mufti, serving as the highest religious authority in their nation or region.