In the context of Islamic education, an “Ijazah” is a certificate that signifies a student has been granted permission to teach a specific subject or text after having studied it under a qualified teacher. The ijazah system is a traditional method of ensuring the transmission of knowledge within a lineage of scholars, particularly in the fields of Quranic studies, Hadith, Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and other Islamic sciences. 

Here are some key aspects of the ijazah system:

1. Historical Context: The ijazah system dates back to the early centuries of Islam as a method to preserve the authentic transmission of sacred and scholarly knowledge. It served as a means to maintain the integrity of teachings, especially in the oral tradition of transmitting the Quran and Hadith.
2. Process of Attainment: To obtain an ijazah, a student must study a particular text, subject, or the Quran under a qualified teacher who already holds an ijazah in that area. The student must demonstrate proficiency and understanding, typically through extensive study, memorization, and examination.
3. Types of Ijazah: Different types of ijazah exist depending on the subject matter. For instance, an ijazah in Quranic recitation might focus on memorization and pronunciation (tajwid), while an ijazah in Hadith could entail the transmission of specific collections or texts.
4. Role of the Teacher: The teacher, known as a “shaykh” or “ustadh,” plays a critical role in the ijazah system. They evaluate the student’s capability and commitment before granting an ijazah, ensuring the quality of scholarship and continuity of the academic lineage.
5. Chain of Transmission (Isnad): Each ijazah includes a chain of transmission (isnad) that traces the lineage of scholars who have taught the subject back to the origin, such as the Prophet Muhammad for Hadith or particular scholars for other sciences. This chain validates the authenticity and reliability of the knowledge transmitted.
6. Significance and Authority: An ijazah signifies not only a student’s mastery of a subject but also their readiness to teach others. It represents the passing of a scholarly tradition across generations and maintains the integrity of Islamic educational practices.
7. Contemporary Relevance: While the ijazah system is traditional, it remains relevant today, especially among scholars and students seeking authentic religious education. It continues to be respected and utilized in many Islamic educational institutions worldwide.

The ijazah system underscores the importance of direct teacher-student interaction and the personal authenticity of knowledge in Islamic educational traditions, emphasizing the continuity and preservation of religious and scholarly teachings.

Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.