The methodology of the shafi‘i madhhab and the ash‘ari school of ‘aqidah as a factor in countering religious extremism

The article analyzes the theological and methodological potential of the Shafi‘i madhhab and the Ash‘ari creed as internal mechanisms for countering religious extremism in the Dagestani context. The aim of the study is to identify the doctrinal and legal foundations of the Sunni tradition that ensure its resilience against radical interpretations of religion. The methodological framework includes historical-doctrinal analysis of classical sources, a comparative legal approach, and contextual examination of the contemporary public activity of Dagestani theologians. The study examines the principles of uṣūl al-fiqh, the strict hierarchy of legal sources, and the requirement of evidentiary proof (dalīl), which limit arbitrary interpretation of sacred texts. Particular attention is paid to the Sunni doctrine of takfīr, including the system of conditions and impediments governing its application, as well as the distinction between major sin and disbelief. It is demonstrated that the concepts of maṣlaḥah and maqāṣid al-sharī‘ah establish a normative framework aimed at preserving religion, life, intellect, progeny, and property as the higher objectives of Islamic law. The article concludes that the Shafi‘i–Ash‘ari tradition functions not as an external political construct but as an internally grounded theological mechanism for safeguarding religious identity and social stability.

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