The Restoration of Sunnism: The Early History of Islamic Law Schools and the Professoriate in Egypt, 495-647/1101-1249

The Restoration of Sunnism is a study of the early history of Islamic law schools (madrasas) in late Fāṭimid and Aiyūbid Egypt, describing their origin, spread, teachers, and role in the religious life of Egypt. It challenges the notion of informal education and highlights the structure and order of these institutions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 354 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2022
Publisher: Lockwood Press

The Restoration of Sunnism is a comprehensive exploration of the formative years of Islamic law schools (known as madrasas) and their esteemed professors during the late Fāṭimid and Aiyūbid Egypt (495-647/1101-1249). It delves into the origins, expansion, and significance of these institutions, as well as the teachers who imparted knowledge and the profound impact they had on the religious landscape of Egypt. This revised edition of the author's doctoral dissertation, originally completed in 1976, remains a pivotal and indispensable work in the field of premodern madrasa history.

In contrast to numerous recent publications on madrasas, which suggest that medieval Islamic legal education was informal and lacked structure, the present work strives to uncover the inherent elements of organization and structure within the madrasa institution and its educational curricula, as well as the associated practices. Leiser's groundbreaking work sets itself apart by its meticulous attention to detail and its comprehensive analysis of the political, economic, and religious context of twelfth- and thirteenth-century Egypt.

The Restoration of Sunnism offers a rich and detailed account of the emergence and development of Islamic law schools in Egypt during the late Fāṭimid and Aiyūbid periods. It sheds light on the historical, social, and cultural factors that influenced the establishment and growth of these institutions, as well as the roles they played in shaping the religious and intellectual landscape of the time. Through its comprehensive examination of the madrasa's structure, curriculum, and practices, the work provides valuable insights into the evolution of Islamic legal education and its impact on the development of Islamic jurisprudence and society.

The study of the Restoration of Sunnism is not only of historical interest but also has contemporary relevance. As societies around the world continue to grapple with issues related to religious education, identity, and social change, the insights and lessons learned from the history of the madrasa can be invaluable. The Restoration of Sunnism serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting religious diversity and tolerance, as well as the significance of education in shaping individuals and communities.

In conclusion, The Restoration of Sunnism is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the early history of Islamic law schools and their professors in late Fāṭimid and Aiyūbid Egypt. Through its meticulous attention to detail and comprehensive analysis of the political, economic, and religious context, the work provides valuable insights into the evolution of Islamic legal education and its impact on the development of Islamic jurisprudence and society. This work is a testament to the enduring significance of studying the history of premodern institutions and their contributions to the world.

Weight: 916g
Dimension: 260 x 183 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781948488891