`Ulama

The ulama, the learned ones, became an important institution in Islamic societies throughout history since members recognized as such are often sought as interpreters of the Quran and Sunna/hadith. These scholars also became the first to outline and elaborate the basic principles of Islamic law (sharia).

The ulama emerged as an influential group during the Umayyad dynasty, a period during which the caliphs were not particularly respected for their erudition and piety. This gave rise toUlama as an independent institution separate from the government.