The Accessible Conspectus

Book excerpt: For centuries, Abu Shuja al-Asfahani's legal primer "Matn al-Ghayat wa-l-Taqrib" ("The Ultimate Conspectus") has been a standard text for introducing students of the Shafii school of Islamic law to the full range of basic legal issues. Students will often start their studies by reading it from a basic commentary with their instructor. Many students will read it again from more advanced commentaries as they progress in their mastery of the subject. This volume presents an amiable commentary that makes Abu Shuja's primer accessible to new students. It uses contemporary language and examples to help readers build a sound foundation in Islamic law. "The Accessible Conspectus" is a perfect companion to "The Ultimate Conspectus."