The Differences of the Imams

The Differences of the Imams

If the Imams of the four schools (madhahib) established all of their rulings from the Qur’an and the Sunna, why have they differed on so many points? How can two authentic narrations from the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him an give hime peace) appear to contradict one another? When is it acceptable for Muslims to differ over religious matters? What did the Messenger (Allah bless him an give hime peace) mean when he said, “The differences of my Umma are a source of mercy?”

Using examples from the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace), his Companions, and their Followers, The Differences of the Imams answers these puzzling questions in a thorough and concise manner. In a clear and lucid style, the author illustrates the various ways in which different narrations seem to contradict one another and how the Companions and the Imams of jurisprudence have reconciled these apparent differences. 

This work is an excellent resource for anyone seeking to better understand some of the deeper issues of hadith and jurisprudence: how these two disciplines come together to form the basis of Islamic law [Shari’a], why it is necessary to follow a school of Islamic law, and what the basic principles of hadith scholarship are.

About The Author

Kandhlawi was born in the village of Kandhal (in Uttar Pradesh, India) on Ramadan 1315 AH (1898 CE).
​
His full name was Muhammad Zakariyya ibn Muhammad Yahya ibn Muhammad Isma‘il, and his lineage continues all the way back to Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him), the great Companion of the Messenger (upon him be peace).

He spent 55 years teaching Ahaadith. of which 45 years were spent in teaching Bukhari Sharif. As an author he wrote many important books. Awjazul-Masaalik, commentary of Muatta Imam Malik in fifteen volumes and La’miud-Dirari, commentary of Sahih-al-Bukhari, consisting of over ten volumes. He has also written a compilation of books on virtues in various different subjects.

In the last century, India has undoubtedly become an important center for the study of hadith, and the scholars of India have become well-known for their passion for religious knowledge. Upon them ended the era of leadership in teaching hadiths, codification of the special fields (funun) of hadith, and commentary upon its texts (mutun). 

He was given the honorary title of Shaykh al-Hadith, or “Great Scholar of Hadith,” by his teacher, Shaykh Khalil Ahmad Saharanpuri, who recognized his deep insight, clear-sightedness, and extensive knowledge of hadith and related sciences. Maulana Zakariyya Died in 1402 AH (1982).