In Islamic studies, the term madhhab is used in two main contexts: one related to practice and law, and the other related to belief and theology. Understanding the distinction between these two is essential for properly grasping differences within Islam.

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1. What Is a Juristic School (Fiqh Madhhab)?

A juristic school refers to a systematic body of opinions and methodologies used to derive practical Islamic rulings, such as prayer, fasting, pilgrimage, transactions, and other legal matters.

Key features:

Focus: Practical religious acts and laws

Sources: The Qur’an, Sunnah, consensus (ijmāʿ), and reason (with methodological differences)

Differences mainly occur in secondary rulings (furūʿ al-dīn)

Following a juristic school is necessary for correct religious practice

Examples:

Jaʿfarī

Ḥanafī

Shāfiʿī

Mālikī

Ḥanbalī

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2. What Is a Theological School (Creedal Madhhab)?

A theological school refers to a structured set of beliefs concerning the fundamental principles of faith, such as monotheism (tawḥīd), prophethood, resurrection, divine justice, and leadership (imamate or caliphate).

Key features:

Focus: Beliefs and doctrines

Sources: The Qur’an, Sunnah, and rational theology

Differences occur in core doctrinal principles

Blind imitation (taqlīd) is not acceptable; belief must be based on conviction

Examples:

Twelver Shiʿism (Imāmī)

Ashʿarism

Māturīdism

Muʿtazilism

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3. Key Differences at a Glance

Aspect Juristic School Theological School

Domain Practice Belief

Subject Legal rulings Doctrines

Nature of differences Secondary issues Foundational beliefs

Taqlīd (imitation) Permissible and required Not permissible

Goal Correct practice Correct belief

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4. Conclusion

Differences between juristic and theological schools do not indicate division in Islam, but rather reflect diversity in interpreting and explaining the religion. All Islamic schools share the core principles of Islam, while differences lie mainly in methodology and interpretation.