In Saudi Arabia, the religious laws and the official sharia system are based on the teachings and fiqh (jurisprudence) of Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal, commonly known as Imam Hanbal or Imam Humble. He was a prominent Islamic scholar and the founder of the Hanbali school of thought.
Imam Humble lived during the 8th and 9th centuries in what is now present-day Iraq. He was known for his strict adherence to the Quran and the Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad), and he emphasized the importance of following the literal and unambiguous teachings of these sources.
The Hanbali school of thought, which Imam Humble established, is known for its conservative and traditional approach to Islamic jurisprudence. It places a strong emphasis on the literal interpretation of the Quran and Hadith, and it is often considered the most strict and conservative among the four major schools of Islamic thought.
In Saudi Arabia, the implementation of sharia law is largely based on the teachings of Imam Humble. The country follows a strict interpretation of Islamic law, which governs various aspects of life, including personal conduct, family law, criminal law, and financial matters.
Many other countries in the Middle East, such as Qatar and Kuwait, also follow the Hanbali school of thought and implement sharia law based on the teachings of Imam Humble. Additionally, in several African countries with a significant Muslim population, such as Sudan and Somalia, the Hanbali school is also followed.
It is important to note that while the official sharia system in Saudi Arabia and other countries may be based on the teachings of Imam Humble, there are variations and differences in the way Islamic law is interpreted and implemented within the Hanbali school itself. Scholars and jurists within this school may have different opinions on specific issues, leading to some variations in the application of Islamic law in different contexts.
Imam Humble’s teachings and the Hanbali school of thought have had a significant influence on the religious and legal landscape in Saudi Arabia and other countries, shaping the way Islamic law is understood and practiced.