Integrating Usul al-Fiqh as an Epistemological Foundation of Islamic Economics in Responding to Global Economic Challenges

Abstract

The role of Ushul al-Fiqh as an epistemological foundation for the development of Islamic economics within the challenging global context. Globalization has brought significant impacts to the world economic system, including wealth inequality, natural resource exploitation, and recurring financial crises. In such circumstances, Islamic economics is expected to provide alternative solutions that are just and sustainable. As the fundamental methodology for deriving Islamic law from primary sources such as the Qur’an, Sunnah, ijma’, and qiyas, Ushul al-Fiqh goes beyond its function as a legal instrument. It also serves as an epistemological basis for constructing a theoretical framework of Islamic economics that remains adaptive and relevant to global dynamics.

This study employs a systematic literature review approach by analyzing both classical and contemporary works concerning the relationship between Ushul al-Fiqh and Islamic economics. The findings indicate that Ushul al-Fiqh offers normative principles, such as justice (‘adl), public interest (maslahah), and balance (tawazun), which are highly relevant to addressing global economic challenges. For instance, in dealing with income inequality, Usul al-Fiqh promotes zakat, sadaqah, and waqf as instruments rooted in social justice. Likewise, in tackling resource

exploitation, the principles of maqasid al-shariah provide a solid foundation for sustainable economic policies.

Therefore, integrating Usul al-Fiqh as an epistemological foundation of Islamic economics not only strengthens the intellectual identity of Islamic scholarship but also contributes significantly to the global economic discourse. This study recommends further multidisciplinary research that bridges Usul al- Fiqh with contemporary issues, enabling Islamic economics to emerge as a more applicable, competitive, and globally relevant alternative.