This course provides a word-by-word explanation of one of the most notable commentaries on Imam Abu Hanifa’s al-Fiqh al-Akbar. It covers the essentials of Hanafi Maturidi Theology pertaining to the foundational articles of Islamic belief.
It discusses the necessary existence of Allah, His names and attributes, and the Quran as His eternal speech. It elaborates on the definition of Iman (reasoned faith) and how one acquires the state of belief and it presents an analysis of the extent to which a believer’s faith increases or decreases. It addresses the subject of Prophethood and the miracles bestowed by Allah upon His various servants. A discussion on the four rightly-guided caliphs and other Companions and the acceptable attitude towards them is also presented.
It also includes eschatological issues as well as refutations of some of the early deviant sects, particularly the Mu‘tazila and Khawarij. The course introduction provides a general overview of the Hanafi Maturidi theological school and its development, an illustration of Imam Abu Hanifa’s position towards Ilm al-Kalam (Islamic theology), and a discussion on the authenticity of the authorship of Fiqh al-Akbar by Imam Abu Hanifa.
- Teacher: Shaykh Ahmed El Azhary
Sharh al-Fiqh al-Akbar by Abu al-Muntaha al-Maghnisawi is a concise commentary on Imam Abu Hanifa’s Creed (Fiqh al-Akbar) narrated by his son Hammad. Despite this commentary’s brevity, it adequately explicates the points presented by Imam Abu Hanifa; and while it avoids lengthy and intricate discussions of the more subtle points of Islamic theology and belief, it suffices with lucid, comprehensible, and short explanations of the text.Â
This commentary was well received since it was authored and served by scholars whether through teaching or writing. It was explained by the Tatari theologian Mu‘in al-Din Abu al-Hassan ‘Ata’illah ibn Muhammad al-Qursavi in an expansive commentary, which he later on reproduced in an abridged form.
This course is essential for students who seek a deeper understanding of Islamic theology and want to understand the intricacies of Islamic beliefs. It is designed for students of knowledge who are beginning the path of studying Hanafi Maturidi theology.
- Recognize the early texts of the Hanafi Maturidi school of Islamic theology.
- Understand the position of Imam Abu Hanifa towards `Ilm al-Kalam (Islamic theology).
- Learn the basics of Islamic theology through the approach of Hanafi Maturidis.
- Gain a deeper understanding of Islamic beliefs.
- Appreciate the intricacy of theological issues.
- Understand the importance of theological studies.
