4 imams of islam biography samples

Concept of Four Imams in Islam

The Four Great Imams—Abu Hanifa, Malik, Shafi’i, and Ahmad ibn Hanbal—are important figures in Islamic history.

They are also known as the Aima Arba and the founders of Islamic law (Fiqh). They were scholars who lived many centuries ago and made significant contributions to how Muslims understand and practice their faith.

Fiqh, which means ‘understanding’ or ‘comprehension’ in Arabic, is the foundation of Islamic law.

4 imams of islam timeline

The development of fiqh is closely connected to the contributions of four great Imams. Despite their differing opinions, these respected scholars—Abu Hanifa, Malik, Shafi’i, and Ahmad ibn Hanbal—demonstrated mutual respect and honor, as seen in their interactions and scholarly exchanges.

The approach and methodology for interpreting and deriving rulings from the Quran and Sunnah, the teachings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), were individually developed by each Imam.

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