Z̤āhiru ʾl-Maẕhab (ظاهر المذهب)
Definition
Z̤āhiru ʾl-Maẕhab (ظاهر المذهب) is an Islamic legal term predominantly used by followers of the Ḥanafī school of thought. It refers to those theological and jurisprudential questions that are conclusively decided and are well-recognized within the four renowned Sunni books: al-Mabsūt̤, al-Jāmiʿu ʾl-Kabīr, al-Jāmiʿu ʾṣ-Ṣag͟hīr, and as-Sairu ʾl-Kabīr.
Etymology
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Arabic: ظاهر المذهب (Z̤āhiru ʾl-Maẕhab)
- ظاهر (Z̤āhir) translates to “apparent” or “evident”.
- المذهب (al-Maẕhab) translates to “school of thought” or “legal way”.
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Turkish: Mezhebin Görünüşü
Significance in Ḥanafī Jurisprudence
Z̤āhiru ʾl-Maẕhab is crucial in Ḥanafī jurisprudence as it signifies rulings that are upheld as normative and authoritative. The four primary texts associated with this term are:
- al-Mabsūt̤: Written by Shams al-Dīn al-Sarak̲h̲sī, this book is a comprehensive legal encyclopaedia of the Ḥanafī jurisprudence.
- al-Jāmiʿu ʾl-Kabīr: Authored by Muḥammad al-Shaybānī, this text focuses on a large collection of juristic opinions and legal precedents.
- al-Jāmiʿu ʾṣ-Ṣag͟hīr: Also by Muḥammad al-Shaybānī, a shortened version highlighting key legal principles.
- as-Sairu ʾl-Kabīr: A treatise on international law and conduct during warfare, contributing significantly to the articulation of Ḥanafī legal methodology.
Suggestion for Further Studies
For a deeper understanding of Z̤āhiru ʾl-Maẕhab and its application in Islamic jurisprudence, the following books are recommended:
- “The Early Development of Islamic Jurisprudence” by Ahmad Hasan
- “Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence” by Mohammad Hashim Kamali
- “The Four Imams and Their Schools” by Gibril Fouad Haddad
Takeaways and Conclusion
The Z̤āhiru ʾl-Maẕhab underscores the intricate development and authoritative nature of certain jurisprudential rulings within the Ḥanafī school of thought, encapsulated primarily in four seminal Islamic legal texts. Understanding this term provides insight into how Ḥanafī scholars decide on essential theological issues and the frameworks they utilize to render rulings that adherents follow.
In summation, Z̤āhiru ʾl-Maẕhab represents a cornerstone in the legal interpretation and application of Islamic principles within Ḥanafī jurisprudence, emblematic of the structured and authoritative nature of these rulings.
By grasping the concept of Z̤āhiru ʾl-Maẕhab, one gains an appreciation for the depth and scholarly rigor that underpins Ḥanafī legal traditions.
