Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh) Variations Across Madhahib:

_Introduction:_

1. Fiqh: Islamic jurisprudence, interpretation of Shariah.
2. Madhahib: Four main Sunni schools of thought (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, Hanbali).

_Sources of Variation:_

1. Quranic interpretation
2. Hadith authenticity and application
3. Ijma’ (scholarly consensus)
4. Qiyas (analogical reasoning)
5. Local customs and practices

_Main Differences:_

*Hanafi School:*

1. Emphasis on reason and analogy
2. Flexible approach to Hadith
3. Permits Istihsan (juristic preference)

*Maliki School:*

1. Emphasis on Hadith and Companions’ opinions
2. Consideration of public interest
3. Strict approach to Ibn Majah’s Hadith

*Shafi’i School:*

1. Balanced approach between reason and Hadith
2. Emphasis on Arabic language and grammar
3. Rejects Istihsan

*Hanbali School:*

1. Strict adherence to Hadith and Quran
2. Limited use of analogy and reason
3. Emphasis on individual responsibility

_Other Schools:_

1. Shia (Ja’fari, Ismaili)
2. Ibadi
3. Zahiri

_Similarities and Shared Principles:_

1. Adherence to Quran and Sunnah
2. Respect for scholarly consensus
3. Emphasis on justice and fairness

_Scholarly Contributions:_

1. Imam Abu Hanifa (Hanafi)
2. Imam Malik (Maliki)
3. Imam Al-Shafi’i (Shafi’i)
4. Imam Ibn Hanbal (Hanbali)

_Practical Implications:_

1. Different rulings on prayer, fasting, and charity
2. Variations in marriage, divorce, and inheritance laws
3. Distinct approaches to business and finance

_Dua (Prayer) for Guidance:_

“O Allah, guide me to understanding and following Your commandments.”

_Recommended Resources:_

1. “The Four Imams” by Muhammad Abu Zahra
2. “Islamic Jurisprudence” by Dr. Muhammad Yusuf
3. Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) publications
4. “The History of Islamic Theology” by Josef van Ess

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