How to Pronounce qazi

Meaning and Context

A qazi (قاضي) is an Islamic judge or magistrate entrusted with the vital duty of administering justice according to the principles of Sharia law. This judicial role, with origins in the Quranic injunction to "judge with justice," has been a cornerstone of Islamic governance since the early Caliphates, evolving into a formalized office with jurisdiction over civil, commercial, and family law matters. Historically, a qazi's authority extended beyond mere adjudication to include guardianship of orphans, management of religious endowments (awqaf), and oversight of public morals, making them central figures in Muslim communities. In contemporary legal systems, the position persists in various forms, from integrated roles within national judiciaries in countries like Saudi Arabia and Pakistan to specialized arbitration panels in diaspora communities. The effectiveness and scope of a qazi's rulings depend heavily on their deep knowledge of fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), local customs, and the trust they command, ensuring the continued relevance of this traditional Islamic legal authority in matters of personal status and dispute resolution.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The term "qazi" is subject to several transliterations from the original Arabic, leading to common variant spellings. The most widely accepted alternatives are "qadi" and "kadi," with "qadi" being particularly prevalent in academic and legal literature. The spelling "qaḍi" includes the underdot to represent the emphatic Arabic letter "ḍād" (ض), though this diacritical mark is often omitted in general usage. Common misspellings and typos arise from phonetic interpretations or keyboard errors, such as "quazi," "quadi," "quadi," "kazee," or "qazy." It is also frequently confused with the similar-sounding but distinct title "mufti," which refers to an Islamic scholar who issues non-binding legal opinions (fatwas), whereas a qazi issues binding judicial rulings. When writing, consistency in using one transliteration, such as "qazi" or "qadi," is recommended for clarity.

Example Sentences

The community sought the guidance of the local qazi to resolve the complex inheritance dispute in accordance with Islamic law.

During the Ottoman Empire, the qazi held significant administrative power, often serving as the chief legal and civic authority in a district.

Modern reforms in several Muslim-majority nations have integrated the qazi's court into the broader national judicial system, particularly for family law cases.

Her research focused on the historical archives of a 17th-century qazi in Mughal India, revealing detailed records of commercial litigation and social contracts.

Before the wedding could proceed, the couple obtained the necessary certification from an officially appointed qazi.

Critics argue that the authority of a qazi in some regions should be subject to clearer appellate procedures within the constitutional framework.

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