What is the term for a formal religious ruling or legal opinion issued by a qualified Islamic scholar?

Explanation

– Fatwa refers to a formal religious ruling or legal opinion issued by a qualified Islamic scholar (Mufti) in response to a specific question regarding Islamic law or practice.
– Unlike a binding court judgment, a Fatwa is generally considered advisory in nature, though it carries significant weight and influence within the community that seeks it.
– For exams, note that a person who issues Fatwas is specifically referred to as a Mufti, distinguishing this role from that of a Qadi, who serves as a judge.