In the vast ocean of Islamic creedal literature (‘Aqidah), few texts hold as central a position as Al-‘Aqidah al-Tahawiyyah by Imam Abu Ja‘far al-Tahawi (d. 321 AH). Its clarity, adherence to the Salaf, and avoidance of extraneous theological disputes have made it a foundational syllabus for Sunni orthodoxy for over a millennium.
However, a text of such density requires a master key. That key is the commentary (Sharh) by the great Hanafi scholar and master of Hadith, ‘Ali al-Qari (d. 1014 AH). His work, aptly titled Sharh al-Fiqh al-Akbar (though commonly referred to as Sharh al-Tahawiyyah), walks the reader through every subtle nuance of al-Tahawi’s propositions.
For serious students, researchers, and those seeking clarity on complex theological matters, page 288 of the standard Arabic printings of Sharh al-Tahawiyyah is a landmark. This page is not a random numerical coordinate; it is a concentrated locus of discussion on one of the most sensitive yet crucial topics in Islam: Divine Decree and Predestination (al-Qada’ wa al-Qadr). Let us unpack what makes this page a cornerstone of Sunni creed.
In the vast ocean of Islamic theological literature, few texts command the reverence of Al-'Aqidah al-Tahawiyyah by Imam Abu Ja'far al-Tahawi (d. 321 AH). This concise yet profound exposition of Sunni orthodoxy has been the subject of countless commentaries. Among them, the Sharh al-'Aqidah al-Tahawiyyah by Ibn Abi al-'Izz al-Hanafi (d. 792 AH/1390 CE) stands as one of the most widely read and debated.
For students of theology, a specific reference often echoes in study circles and academic footnotes: "Sharh Tahawiyyah page 288." But what is so significant about this particular page? What arguments, proofs, or theological nuances does it contain that make it a cornerstone for discussion? This article unpacks the content, context, and controversies surrounding this pivotal page.
In online forums and written debates, "page 288" is often cited as "proof" that even a Hanafi commentary affirms Allah’s literal elevation over the Throne. Salafi-oriented preachers use it to show that negation of direction (ta'til) is a deviation. Conversely, traditional Maturidi scholars argue that Ibn Abi al-'Izz's commentary is unrepresentative of Imam al-Tahawi’s original intent, pointing out that al-Tahawi himself said "He is free from directions."
The Shaytan often uses Qadr as a tool to create despair. He whispers: “Your faith is not your doing; it was forced. Your sin was written for you, so why repent?” Page 288 of Sharh al-Tahawiyyah provides the antidote. Al-Qari explicitly states that such whispers are from the path of destruction. The believer’s duty is to act, repent, and leave the ultimate reality of divine decree to Allah.
Page 288 of Sharḥ al-Ṭaḥāwiyyah is not a dry philosophical exercise — it is a pastoral and theological defense of divine justice. Ibn Abi al-‘Izz shows that affirming Allah’s complete power does not erase human responsibility; rather, it deepens humility and obedience. The page stands as a timeless corrective to both excessive rationalism and careless predestinarianism, embodying the Sunni creed that “all is from Allah” yet “to us is our deeds.”
If you can share the exact text (or a photo/scan) of page 288 from your edition, I will rewrite this essay to directly quote and analyze that specific content. sharh tahawiyyah page 288
The primary commentary associated with page 288 is Sharh al-Aqida al-Tahawiyya Ibn Abi al-Izz al-Hanafi
. In most standard editions and English translations (such as those found on Archive.org IslamHouse ), this page falls within the critical section discussing Iman (Faith) and Islam Core Subject: The Relationship Between Iman and Islam
On or around page 288, the author addresses the theological definition of faith and whether it differs from submission (Islam). Definition of Iman : The text explores the classical debate on whether
includes "works" (actions) or if it is solely comprised of internal belief and verbal testimony. The Hanafi Perspective : Ibn Abi al-Izz explains the position of Imam Abu Hanifah
and his followers, who traditionally argued that works are not an integral part of the of faith, though they are necessary requirements. Reconciling Differences : The author notes that many scholars of
and jurists include works in the definition of faith. He argues that while there is a technical difference in definition, the practical difference is often minimal, as both sides agree that sinners are subject to God's will and that faith is not valid without basic submission. Key Theological Points Covered Increase and Decrease of Faith
: The discussion typically extends to whether faith increases with obedience and decreases with sin. The Status of the Sinner : It reinforces the central principle that no Muslim becomes a
(disbeliever) simply by committing a sin, unless they deem that sin to be lawful. Linguistic vs. Legal Meanings Unlocking Creedal Depth: A Detailed Analysis of Sharh
: The write-up delves into the linguistic roots of the words
to clarify why different scholars used different terminology. Context of the Work
: Ibn Abi al-Izz (d. 792 AH) was a Hanafi jurist who sought to align the creed with the methodology of the
(early generations), often drawing from the works of Ibn Taymiyyah.
: The book serves as the most widely studied commentary on the original short creedal statement ( ) written by Imam al-Tahawi (d. 321 AH). specifically, or are you looking for a detailed breakdown of the arguments regarding faith vs. works? Full text of "Sharh Aqeedah Tahawiyyah" - Internet Archive
In the Sharh al-Aqida al-Tahawiyya by Ibn Abi al-Izz al-Hanafi, the discussion surrounding page 288 (specifically in the standard English translation by Muhammad ‘Abdul-Haqq Ansari) primarily focuses on the nature of Iman (faith) and Islam, and specifically whether Iman includes outward actions or is limited to internal belief and verbal testimony. Core Theological Debate
The content on and around page 288 addresses a pivotal point of difference between the Salaf (early scholars of Hadith) and the Hanafi school regarding the definition of faith:
Definition of Iman: The text explores the question: "Does Iman include works (a'mal) or not?". If you can share the exact text (or
Hanafi Position: Following Imam Abu Hanifa, the commentary notes that Iman is defined as "testimony by the tongue and belief by the heart," effectively excluding outward deeds from the definition of faith itself.
Position of Hadith Scholars: Conversely, many scholars of Hadith and other jurists argue that actions are an integral part of Iman.
Reconciliation: Ibn Abi al-Izz argues that this difference is largely semantic or "verbal" (lafzi), rather than a fundamental disagreement on the necessity of performing good deeds, as both groups agree that those who neglect their duties deserve punishment. Key Themes on Page 288
Iman and Islam Relationship: The text examines whether Iman and Islam are the same or different. It posits that when used singly, they mean the same thing, but when mentioned together in a text, they carry distinct meanings (Islam referring to outward submission and Iman to internal conviction).
Increase and Decrease of Faith: The commentary addresses whether Iman can increase or decrease. While the Salaf affirmed this based on Quranic verses, the early Hanafi view often held that faith is a singular, unchanging entity (in terms of its essence), though it may vary in terms of strength and "light".
Brotherhood of Believers: The section transitions into the concept that all believers are "friends" (awliya) of God, and that their superiority over one another is based on their level of Taqwa (piety) and obedience. Summary Table: Iman vs. Islam in Tahawiyyah Hanafi View (Tahawi) Salaf/Hadith Scholars View Components Heart belief & tongue testimony Heart, tongue, and physical deeds Increase/Decrease Essence is stable; "light" varies Increases with obedience, decreases with sin Relationship Often used interchangeably Distinct when mentioned together
For further study, you can access the full translated text on Kalamullah.com or browse the archive at Internet Archive. Full text of "Sharh Aqeedah Tahawiyyah" - Internet Archive