Written in the second Islamic century by al-Imam al-Shafi'i (d. 204 AH/820 AD), the founder of one of the four Sunni schools of law, this pivotal work outlines the fundamental principles of Islamic jurisprudence, with its influence still felt today. During the early years of Islam's expansion, scholars of Islamic law were tasked with addressing the challenges of governing and administering a diverse, rapidly growing empire. In cities like Medina, Kufa, and others within the early Muslim world, schools of law emerged. However, it was the intellectual brilliance of Muhammad b. Idris al-Shafi'i, born in 150 AH/767 AD, that established the foundational principles for synthesizing various legal doctrines into a unified and coherent system.
In his Risala, al-Shafi'i set forth the primary authority, second only to the Qur’an, of the Sunnah—the example of the Prophet Muhammad as transmitted through authentic traditions. This work laid the groundwork for a comprehensive system of Islamic legal theory.
Professor Majid Khadduri has provided a valuable service by translating this essential text into English. His meticulous translation draws from the original manuscripts of Ibn Jama’a and al-Rabi, housed at Dar al-Kutub, the National Library in Cairo, as well as authoritative editions from the early 20th century, including the Bulaq and Shakir editions. In his insightful introduction, Professor Khadduri offers a historical context for the Risala, a biography of al-Imam al-Shafi'i, and detailed, annotated summaries of the composition, structure, content, and arguments within the text. Additionally, he includes a list of tradition transmitters, a glossary of key Islamic legal terms, and a select bibliography. For this new edition, the index has been expanded, and minor corrections have been incorporated.
"One of the leading texts on Islamic fiqh. A must for the bookshelf of all conscientious Muslims."
—Dr. Darsh, Q News
