Sadd al-Dhara'i and Its Applications in Kashshaf al-Qina'

Abstract

This research examines the principle of blocking the means (Sadd al-Dharā’iʿ) as one of the fundamental jurisprudential and legal principles in Islamic law. This principle plays a significant role in achieving the objectives of Islamic Sharia by preventing permissible means that are likely to lead to prohibited acts or harmful consequences. Its importance lies in its preventive nature, as it seeks to protect the five essential objectives of Sharia and preserve both individual and public interests. Consequently, it has received considerable attention from Muslim jurists, particularly scholars of the Hanbali school of law. The study aims to clarify the concept of Sadd al-Dharā’iʿ, its legal foundations, classifications, and the views of jurists regarding its application. It also focuses on its practical applications in Kashshaf al-Qināʿ ʿan Matn al-Iqnāʿ by Imam Mansur ibn Yunus al-Buhuti, one of the most authoritative references in Hanbali jurisprudence. Furthermore, the research highlights al-Buhuti’s methodology in employing this principle to derive legal rulings and demonstrates its role in addressing issues related to acts of worship, financial transactions, and personal status law. The study adopts both the inductive and analytical approaches by tracing the relevant jurisprudential issues presented in the book and examining them in light of the objectives of Islamic law. The research concludes that Imam al-Buhuti relied extensively on the principle of Sadd al-Dharā’iʿ, whether explicitly or implicitly, in formulating numerous legal rulings. This reflects the principle’s significant role in safeguarding public interests, preventing harm, and reinforcing the objectives of Sharia, thereby confirming its enduring importance as an effective mechanism for maintaining social order and ensuring the sound application of Islamic legal principles.