Urf, or customary practice, is an important concept in Islamic jurisprudence that refers to the acknowledged customs and practices of a particular society or community. In Islamic law, urf is considered a secondary source of legislation, used to complement and interpret the primary sources (the Quran and the Hadith) in contexts where they do not provide specific guidance. 

Here are the key aspects of urf:

1. Definition and Role: Urf encompasses the habitual practices, norms, and traditions that are widespread among a community and are considered acceptable by its members. It helps to contextualize and adapt the implementation of Islamic law to local cultures and situations, provided these customs do not contradict Islamic principles.
2. Types of Urf:
   • Sahih (Valid) Urf: Customs that do not contradict any tenet of Islamic law and are harmonious with its principles.
   • Fasid (Invalid) Urf: Customs that go against Islamic teachings and are not considered valid in shaping legal decisions.
3. Conditions for Acceptance: For urf to be considered in Islamic jurisprudence, it must meet certain conditions:
   • It should be widespread and prevailing among the community.
   • It must not contradict clear texts of the Quran or Hadith.
   • It should not lead to harm or injustice.
   • It should be rational and in line with the objectives of Sharia (maqasid al-sharia).
4. Application in Jurisprudence: Urf can influence various aspects of Islamic law, such as commercial transactions, contract terms, family law, and social practices. It helps ensure that legal rulings remain relevant and applicable to the societal context.
5. Examples of Use: One common example is in commercial contracts, where the terms are often understood based on prevailing business customs. Similarly, local customs may dictate specific dowry practices in marriage.
6. Acceptance and Debate: The use of urf is more commonly accepted in Sunni Islamic jurisprudence, particularly within the Maliki and Hanafi schools, due to their emphasis on practicality and adaptability. However, there is some debate among scholars on the extent to which urf should influence legal rulings, especially when it comes to determining whether certain customs align with Islamic values.

Overall, urf serves as a mechanism for integrating Islamic principles with cultural contexts, allowing for a more culturally sensitive and relevant application of Islamic law while striving to maintain the integrity of its fundamental teachings.

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