alHanafiyya

AlHanafiyya refers to a school of Islamic jurisprudence, known as a madhhab, within Sunni Islam. It is one of the four major orthodox legal schools that have gained widespread acceptance and are followed by a significant portion of Muslims worldwide. The Hanafiyya madhhab is attributed to its founder, Abu Hanifa an-Nu'man ibn Thabit, a prominent scholar from Kufa in Iraq who lived from approximately 699 to 767 CE.

The methodology of the Hanafiyya school emphasizes the use of reason and analogical deduction (qiyas) alongside the primary sources of Islamic law: the Quran and the Sunnah (the traditions and practices of the Prophet Muhammad). Abu Hanifa and his students, such as Abu Yusuf and Muhammad al-Shaybani, developed a systematic approach to legal reasoning. They were known for their extensive use of opinion (ra'y) and consideration of public interest (istislah) when direct textual evidence was scarce or ambiguous.

The Hanafiyya madhhab is particularly prevalent in Central Asia, South Asia, Turkey, the Balkans, and parts of the Middle East. Its influence can be seen in the legal systems and customs of these regions. The school is characterized by its detailed legal opinions on a wide range of matters, including ritual practices, family law, commercial transactions, and criminal justice. Its approach is often seen as pragmatic and adaptable to evolving societal needs.