Who is considered a Mujtahid (independent jurist) regarding the Qibla direction?
Chapter on Facing the Qiblah
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
The Mujtahid concerning the Qibla is the one knowledgeable about its proofs (adillah), even if ignorant of other religious rulings. This is because such a person is capable of determining the direction using their evidence, which qualifies them as a Mujtahid in this matter, similar to a jurist. The most trustworthy proofs for determining the Qibla are the stars, as stated in the Quran: "And by the stars are they guided" (Quran 16:16) and "And it is He who made the stars for you to be guided by them in the darkness of the land and sea" (Quran 6:97).
Supporting text
If a jurist is ignorant of the proofs for the Qibla or is blind, they are considered a Muqallid (one who follows another), even if they are knowledgeable in other areas of jurisprudence.