Differentiation of the Prophetic Sunnah in the Methodology of Islamic law
https://doi.org/10.31162/2618-9569-2026-19-1-103-120
Abstract
This article examines the methodology of studying the Prophetic Sunnah as a source of Islamic law and the problem of absolutizing this source in the minds of its adherents. Based on the identified patterns, the author presents three conceptual approaches to differentiating the Sunnah: by its authenticity, legality, and objectivity. The first two have been described in considerable detail in the methodological literature, while the third type of differentiation lacks theorization, despite its greatest importance in substantiating the conceptualization of the Sunnah. Concurrently, the author analyzes the reasons for the disagreements among Islamic methodologists and legal scholars based on the proposed types of differentiation of the Sunnah and presents its categories, which are and are not subject to conceptual rigor. In conclusion, the author highlights the problematic of conceptualizing the Sunnah and the need to consolidate intellectual activity in understanding its role in the methodology of Islamic law by developing universal criteria for distinguishing religious prescriptions from political decisions.
About the Author
R. I. Azamatov
Russian Islamic University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Rustem I. Azamatov, PhD (Theology), Senior Lecturer of the Department of Islamic Sciences
Ufa
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Review
For citations:
Azamatov R.I. Differentiation of the Prophetic Sunnah in the Methodology of Islamic law. Minbar. Islamic Studies. 2026;19(1):103-120. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.31162/2618-9569-2026-19-1-103-120
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