There are several reasons why Muslims should follow a madhab:

Scholarly Guidance: Following a madhab provides a structured approach to understanding and interpreting Islamic teachings. Madhabs are based on the scholarly opinions and interpretations of scholars who have dedicated their lives to studying and analyzing Islamic law. By following a madhab, individuals can benefit from the expertise and wisdom of these scholars.

Consistency and Cohesion: Madhabs offer a consistent and cohesive framework for understanding and practicing Islam. They provide guidelines and principles for various aspects of worship. Following a madhab can help ensure uniformity and harmony in religious practices within a community.

Avoiding Confusion: Islamic jurisprudence can be complex, and there are multiple interpretations on various matters. By adhering to a specific madhab, individuals can avoid confusion and indecision when faced with conflicting opinions or interpretations. It provides a clear path to follow without getting overwhelmed by different perspectives.

Depth of Knowledge: Madhabs encompass a vast body of knowledge and scholarship accumulated over centuries. Scholars within each madhab have delved deep into the texts of the Quran, Hadith (Prophetic traditions), and legal principles, providing comprehensive analysis and explanations. By following a madhab, individuals can benefit from this rich intellectual heritage.

Expert Guidance: Scholars associated with a specific madhab have expertise in its teachings and are well-versed in the nuances of its legal rulings. They can provide guidance and advice on matters of religious practice and help individuals navigate complex issues within the framework of the madhab.

For a more explanation, please watch the accompanying video below.

Studying Islamic knowledge without a qualified shaykh or teacher lead to incomplete understanding. Having a shaykh offers benefits such as receiving authentic teachings, understanding context and interpretation, seeking clarification and guidance, being accountable and corrected, and fostering spiritual development. Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable shaykh is the comprehensive and well-rounded understanding way of Islamic knowledge.

For a more explanation, please watch the accompanying video below.

When engaging in Islamic studies, it is essential to develop effective questioning skills. Here are some key principles to keep in mind:

1. Encourage detailed responses: Ask open-ended questions to elicit thorough explanations.
2. Gain deeper insights: Probe for examples to enhance understanding and explore the topic further.
3. Use follow-up questions: Clarify and gather more details to enrich your knowledge.
4. Stay unbiased: Avoid leading questions to maintain objectivity.
5. Listen actively: Pay attention to verbal and non-verbal cues for a comprehensive understanding.
6. Stay focused: Guide the discussion back to the main topic if it veers off track.
7. Foster openness: Create a comfortable environment that promotes open and honest dialogue.
8. Balance listening and speaking: Ensure equal participation and respect all perspectives.
9. Prepare beforehand: Take time to think and craft questions in advance for clarity.
10. Respect others’ time: Ask permission before posing a question, showing consideration.

For a more detailed explanation, please watch the accompanying video below.

A mu’ied is a student who is allowed by his shaykh to teach a specific book or subject. Most importantly the mu’ied will restricts himself to only repeating that which he has learned from his shaykh while not adding any new material of his own.

Tasawwuf is a spiritual path within Islam that focuses on the inner dimensions of faith, seeking a direct connection with the divine through soul purification and adherence to moral principles. Practitioners follow various spiritual practices to cultivate their inner selves and deepen their understanding of themselves and the divine. If you would like to explore Tasawwuf further, you may consider studying “Al-Wassiyah” a renowned work that delves into the teachings and practices of this spiritual path. It can provide valuable insights and guidance on the journey of spiritual enlightenment and the profound connection with the divine that Tasawwuf aims to achieve.

Tawasul is the practice of seeking intercession or drawing closer to God through an intermediary, and it involves supplicating to God by invoking the names or qualities of righteous individuals, prophets, saints, or the Prophet Muhammad. If you are interested in delving deeper into the topic of tawasul, you may consider studying the course “Lum’ah al-I‘tiqād” (The Brilliance of Belief). This book provides a comprehensive exploration of the subject, offering insights and explanations on the concept of tawasul and its theological underpinnings within the Islamic tradition.

An ijazah is a certification that acknowledges understanding of a specific book or subject. However, it does not automatically grant the recipient the authority to teach. Teaching is typically allowed when the qualified teacher or scholar who granted the ijazah has explicitly given permission to the recipient to share the knowledge and teachings with others. The ijazah serves as evidence that the individual has thoroughly studied and comprehended the specific book or subject under the guidance of a knowledgeable teacher. The permission to teach is an additional step that requires the acknowledgment and authorization from the qualified teacher.

No, becoming a scholar requires a significant amount of time and dedication. Intensive courses or shortcuts cannot replace the necessary commitment and study.

The key factors are dedication, patience, guidance from a knowledgeable teacher, financial resources, and a consistent study approach.

This answer delves into the methodology of studying the Hanbali school of thought, with a focus on providing clarity and guidance regarding recommended books, curriculums, and levels of study.

One common source of confusion lies in the selection of books. Some suggest exclusively studying the works of Ibn Taymiyyah, while others overlook the importance of Ibn Qudamah’s writings. However, it is emphasized that both sets of books hold significance and should be studied in conjunction.

To reconcile the teachings of these scholars, the concept of “relied upon position” is introduced. It refers to the theoretical stance scholars would have taken if they had explicitly addressed certain matters. This concept helps integrate the teachings of Ibn Taymiyyah and Ibn Qudamah, providing a comprehensive understanding.

Regarding the curriculum and levels of study, a suggested progression of books is outlined. Foundational texts such as “Muntaqa al-Akhbar” and “Ittihad al-Sadat al-Mustanad” are mentioned as fundamental building blocks for further study. These books are considered updated versions of Ibn Qudamah’s works.

In order to acquire knowledge in the Hanbali school of thought, dedication, time, and guidance from a knowledgeable teacher are emphasized as crucial elements.

For a more detailed explanation, please watch the accompanying video below.