A pivotal point of discussion in this section of the Sharh is whether actions constitute a necessary part of Iman . Imam Ibn Abi al-Izz analyzes this topic, balancing the perspectives of various schools of thought, particularly addressing the Hanafi school’s traditional stance compared to other Sunni scholars.
To study this page and the text as a whole, it is helpful to know the different editions:
The Sharh al-Aqidah at-Tahawiyyah (Commentary on the Creed of al-Tahawi) by Imam Ibn Abi al-Izz al-Hanafi is a fundamental text in Islamic theology, clarifying the beliefs of the Ahl as-Sunnah wa’l-Jama’ah (the mainstream Sunni perspective). A critical area within this, often located in the latter sections of the standard commentary (such as around page 288 in many popular English translations, including the one edited by Dr. Muhammad Khan or published by EmaanLibrary, centers on the profound relationship between faith ( Iman ), action, and the nature of excommunication ( Takfir ).
Ibn Abi al-‘Izz addresses the historical conflict regarding the interpretation of this verse. He strongly argues against the interpretative methodology of the Jahmiyyah and Mu'tazilah (rationalist sects) who interpreted Istawa to mean "conquering" or "dominating" ( Istawla ). sharh tahawiyyah page 288
While many scholars argue that works are part of the perfection of faith, this section clarifies the danger of excommunicating (deeming a disbeliever) a person solely for neglecting practical duties (assuming they do not deny the duty itself). 2. Key Themes Covered Around Page 288
Depending on the specific Arabic manuscript layout (e.g., the Mu’assasat ar-Risalah print edited by Shu'ayb al-Arna'ut), page 288 explores two core theological realities:
Divine actions (af‘al) vs. attributes
Al-Qari explains why Qadr is called “Allah’s secret.” He argues that it is a that even archangels and prophets cannot fully grasp. However, he moves beyond mere mystification. He clarifies:
Brief critique / notes for further study
Instead, Ibn Abi al-‘Izz offers the middle path: We affirm Allah is above the Throne because the text says so; we deny that He resembles creation because the text also says, "There is nothing like unto Him." A pivotal point of discussion in this section
The commentary explains that while some early Hanafi scholars sometimes defined Iman technically only as affirmation (heart and tongue), they agreed that actions are a necessary consequence and that faith does increase and decrease, rejecting the notion that actions are entirely separable from the reality of Iman . Sin and the Definition of Kufr (Disbelief)
The core text, Al-Aqidah al-Tahawiyya , was originally compiled in the 10th century by the Egyptian scholar Imam Abu Ja'far al-Tahawi . His goal was to outline the consensus ( ijma ) of the mainstream Muslim community—the Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama'ah —according to the methodology of the early scholars of Iraq: Imam Abu Hanifah, Abu Yusuf, and Muhammad al-Shaybani.
This public link is valid for 7 days and shares a thread, including any personal information you added. This link or copies made by others cannot be deleted. If you share with third parties, their policies apply. Can’t copy the link right now. Try again later. Full text of "Sharh Aqeedah Tahawiyyah" - Internet Archive A critical area within this, often located in