Methodological Synthesis of Theoretical and Applied Schools in Usul al-Fiqh: Historical-Critical Analysis
https://doi.org/10.31162/2618-9569-2026-19-2-286-298
Abstract
The article examines the synthetic method in uṣūl al-fiqh, which emerged as an attempt to combine the strengths of two classical approaches – the theoretical school of the mutakallimūn and the practical school of the fuqahā’. This method does not constitute a new legal school; rather, it is a style of presentation that integrates logical rigor, textual evidence, and a connection to practical legal applications. The authors investigate the reasons for its emergence during the era of taqlīd, including the need for concise and universal manuals and the Hanafis’ aspiration to reinforce the theoretical foundations of their madhhab. The article addresses the scholarly debate over whether the synthetic method represents an independent phenomenon or merely a further evolution of classical approaches. Key works of this method are examined, such as Badī’ al-niẓām, Tanqīḥ al-uṣūl, al-Taḥrīr, and Musallam al-thubūt. The study concludes that the synthetic method became a significant stage in the development of Islamic legal methodology and had a substantial impact on the educational tradition of the late medieval period.
About the Authors
M. A. Al-Zahrawi
Bolgar Islamic Academy
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Mohamed A. Al-Zahrawi, PhD (Sharia), Lecturer of the Department of Religious and Humanitarian Disciplines
Bolgar
M. R. Salimov
Bolgar Islamic Academy
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Magomed R. Salimov, Doctoral student
Bolgar
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Review
For citations:
Al-Zahrawi M.A., Salimov M.R. Methodological Synthesis of Theoretical and Applied Schools in Usul al-Fiqh: Historical-Critical Analysis. Minbar. Islamic Studies. 2026;19(2):286-298. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.31162/2618-9569-2026-19-2-286-298
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