ijtihad
      n : the endeavor of a Moslem scholar to derive a rule of divine
          law from the Koran and Hadith without relying on the
          views of other scholars; by the end of the 10th century
          theologians decided that debate on such matters would be
          closed and Muslim theology and law were frozen; "some
          reform-minded Islamic scholars believe that reopening
          itjihad is a prerequisite for the survival of Islam"