The viewpoint of Imam Abu Hanifa (may Allah have mercy on him) on the Laws of Previous Nations( Sharaiman qablina)

Abstract

This research examines the stance of Imam Abu Hanifa (may Allah have mercy on him) on the laws of previous nations, within the framework of the interaction between Islamic law and the laws that preceded it. Abu Hanifa believed that the previous scriptures, such as the Torah and the Gospel, were part of the divine messages sent by Allah to earlier nations for their guidance. With the advent of Islamic law, these laws were abrogated, but this does not imply a complete rejection of all that was in them. Abu Hanifa tended to accept what did not conflict with Islamic law from these laws, particularly in cases related to practical rulings such as worship, transactions, and some criminal matters. The research shows how Imam Abu Hanifa recognized the importance of these laws as part of divine legislation, while also requiring that the rulings of the previous laws align with the principles of Islamic law. This position reflects the jurisprudential flexibility that characterized Abu Hanifa, as he considered that the rulings of previous laws could be beneficial in certain contexts if they aligned with the higher objectives of Islamic Shari'ah. The research also discusses the differences between the positions of various scholars on this issue. In conclusion, the paper emphasizes that Abu Hanifa's stance was based on balancing respect for the previous laws while affirming that Islamic law is the complete and final guidance to be followed.