This course, based on Imam ‘Alawiy al-Saqqaf's celebrated text, "Mukhtasar Al-Fawa’id Al-Makkiyya," offers an essential guide for serious students of Islamic knowledge. Students will explore the profound importance of acquiring knowledge, the etiquette required of both the scholar and the learner, and the crucial role of scholars in guiding and preserving Islamic teachings.
The course delves into the importance of adhering to a specific School of Thought in Islamic jurisprudence, focusing on the Shafi‘i tradition. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the four major Schools of Thought, the concepts of Taqlid (following) and Ijtihad (independent reasoning), and the categorization of jurisprudents.
Additionally, the course addresses the practical aspects of Taqlid in matters of belief and the implications for laypeople. Moreover, the course covers the essential Shafi‘i texts and the key terminologies and expressions used by Shafi‘i jurists, offering practical guidance on their application.
It also includes discussions on the formulas of hadith among Muhaddithun, the rulings on reading unverified stories, and the use of symbols in incantations. Through live-recorded lectures, interactive quizzes, and interactive discussions, students will be equipped with a robust understanding of the Shafi‘i tradition, fostering both intellectual growth and spiritual enrichment.
- Teacher: Mawlana Irshaad Sedick
This book, “Mukhtasar Al-Fawa’id Al-Makkiyya”, is an abridgment by the original author, Shaykh ‘Alawi Ibn Ahmad Al-Saqqaf Al-Shafi‘i Al-Makki. “Al-Fawa’id Al-Makkiyya” is an essential text for any serious student of knowledge. It encompasses the significance of knowledge, its various types, and the benefits it brings to a Muslim.
The book covers the etiquette of both the scholar and the learner, the importance of acquiring books, and the necessity of adhering to scholars in pursuing knowledge. It emphasizes the need to follow a specific School of Thought in jurisprudence, explaining the four Schools and the rulings on Taqlid (following) and Ijtihad (independent reasoning). The text categorizes jurisprudents, discusses the School of Thought for laypeople, and elaborates on Taqlid in matters of belief.
It outlines the ranks and differences among scholars, highlights the most essential Shafi‘i books, and traces the history of the Shafi‘i School from Imam Shafi‘i to the present. The book acknowledges the contributions of Imam Rafi‘i and Imam Nawawi in refining the School and explains the key texts relied upon within it.
It includes terminology and expressions used by Shafi‘i jurists, formulas of hadith among Muhaddithun, and rulings on reading unverified stories and using incomprehensible symbols in incantations. The author concludes with poems beneficial to seekers of knowledge and essential issues, maintaining a balance between brevity and completeness to avoid excessive detail or harmful omission.
Serious Students of Islamic Knowledge:
Individuals who are committed to deepening their understanding of Islamic jurisprudence and spirituality. The course material, derived from Imam ‘Alawi al-Saqqaf's renowned text, "Mukhtasar Al-Fawa’id Al-Makkiyya," offers an in-depth study suitable for those dedicated to advancing their knowledge.
Followers of the Shafi‘i School of Thought:
The course is particularly beneficial for those who adhere to or are interested in the Shafi‘i School. It provides detailed insights into the history, foundational texts, and significant scholars of the Shafi‘i tradition, making it ideal for followers and students of this school.
Students Intending to Study the Minhaj of Imam Nawawi
Those who plan to delve into the Minhaj al-Talibin by Imam Nawawi will find this course particularly useful. It lays a solid foundation in the Shafi'i jurisprudence and provides essential background knowledge that will aid in understanding and appreciating the comprehensive legal manual authored by Imam Nawawi.
- Comprehensive Understanding of Islamic Jurisprudence:
Students will gain a thorough knowledge of the foundational principles and practices of Islamic jurisprudence, particularly within the Shafi'i School. They will learn about the importance of following a specific School, the concepts of Taqlid and Ijtihad, and the historical development of the Shafi'i tradition. - Mastery of Scholarly Etiquette and Ethics:
Participants will learn the essential etiquette and ethical standards expected of scholars and learners in Islam. This includes proper manners in seeking and imparting knowledge, the significance of humility and respect, and scholars’ responsibilities towards their students and community. - Familiarity with Key Shafi'i Texts and Terminology:
The course will familiarize students with the most important texts and terminologies used in Shafi’i jurisprudence. They will explore key works by renowned scholars like Imam Nawawi and Imam Rafi’i, and understand the specialized vocabulary and expressions employed by Shafi’i jurists. - Enhanced Spiritual and Intellectual Growth:
Through the study of Imam ‘Alawi al-Saqqaf's "Mukhtasar Al-Fawa’id Al-Makkiyya," students will experience both spiritual and intellectual enrichment. They will engage with the spiritual dimensions of seeking knowledge, understanding the balance between scholarly pursuits and personal spiritual development. - Preparation for Advanced Studies in Islamic Sciences:
The course will prepare students for further advanced studies in Islamic sciences, particularly those intending to study the Minhaj al-Talibin by Imam Nawawi. By providing a solid foundation in Shafi'i jurisprudence and related subjects, the course equips students with the necessary background to excel in higher levels of Islamic scholarship.
