Lote Tree Foundation

The course content is based on the classical theological text Al-Fiqh al-Akbar, traditionally attributed to Imām Abū Ḥanīfah (d. 150 AH / 767 CE), one of the foremost authorities in Sunni Islam and a towering figure in both jurisprudence and theology. Widely regarded as one of the earliest systematic works on Islamic creed (ʿaqīdah), the text represents a foundational articulation of orthodox Sunni belief.

Despite its brevity, Al-Fiqh al-Akbar addresses some of the most profound and enduring theological questions, presenting them in a concise and principled manner that is deeply rooted in revelation while remaining open to rational reflection. As such, it has been transmitted, studied, and commented upon for centuries, forming an essential part of the intellectual heritage of Sunni Islam and influencing later theological traditions, particularly the Māturīdī and Ashʿarī schools.

This edition represents a significant contribution to the study of Islamic theology in English. Moving beyond rigid literalism, it offers a lucid and accessible rendering of the text, drawing upon classical commentaries most notably that of al-Maghnīsāwī - alongside carefully selected insights from ʿAlī al-Qārī’s renowned super-commentary. It also incorporates the entirety of Kitāb al-Waṣiyya, further enriching the reader’s understanding of Imām Abū Ḥanīfah’s theological outlook.

The work explores key theological themes, including:

    •    The nature of Allah and His attributes

    •    The reality of faith (īmān)

    •    The relationship between divine decree and human action

    •    The status of the Qur’an as divine speech

    •    The unseen (al-ghayb), including the afterlife

Through its clarity, depth, and enduring relevance, Al-Fiqh al-Akbar serves not only as an introduction to Islamic creed but as a gateway to a disciplined and coherent understanding of faith, making it an essential text for any serious student of Islamic theology.