Abū Bakr al-ʿAdanī’s Concept of the Fourth Pillar of Dīn from Ḥadīth Jibrīl and the Two Sunnahs of Fiqh al-Taḥawwulāt

Abstract

This article delves into the innovative ideas of Abū Bakr al-ʿAdanī, who introduced a ground-breaking concept of the fourth pillar of dīn, derived from the renowned Ḥadīth Jibrīl. This narration holds significant importance in the Islamic tradition, being hailed as the mother of the sunnah by al-Qurṭubī for its comprehensive nature. Although Ḥadīth Jibrīl has been extensively analysed by numerous scholars, none have explored it with the depth and insight displayed by al-ʿAdanī. By categorising the pillars of dīn into immutables (thawābit) and mutables (mutaghayyirāt), al-ʿAdanī presents an unprecedented perspective on understanding the Signs of the Hour (āyāt al-Sāʿah). His pioneering approach to this Prophetic narration paves the way for a fresh and enlightening understanding of Islamic teachings. This article thoroughly examines al-ʿAdanī’s distinctive methodology and expounds on the concept of the pillars of dīn as perceived by other esteemed Muslim scholars. By doing so, this article sheds light on the richness and diversity of Islamic scholarship and its evolving interpretations over time.