The Origins of the Zaydīs
Who are the Zaydis and how do they differ from Twelver Shia? Discover their origins, the betrayal at Kufa, and why that moment gave birth to…
The Origin of the Ismā‘īlīs
How did the Ismailis emerge after the eleventh Imam's death? From the Fatimid conquest of Egypt to the Qarmatians stealing the Black Stone.
The Early Shī‘ī: From the 11th Imām to the Būyids
Twelver Shia Islam did not emerge overnight. Discover how five key scholars between 874 and 945 AD constructed the doctrine of the hidden Imam…
Imam Al-Tabari – A Brief Biography
Al-Tabari memorised the Quran at seven and became Islam's greatest historian. Discover his life, his famous Ta'rikh, and why the Hanbalis…
The Truce of Hudaybiyah – A Great Victory
Why did the Companions think Hudaybiyah was a defeat, when it was actually Islam's greatest victory? The full story of the treaty that changed…
The Sunni Creed of Abdullah b. ‘Awn
Abdullah b. ‘Awn (d.151/768) is considered to be one of the most important scholars of ahl al-Sunna, having studied with both al-Ḥasan…
Taqlid and Closing the Doors of Ijtihād
Many Muslims believe the gates of ijtihad were closed in the 3rd century. This article examines the historical evidence and shows why that…
The Compilation of the Qur’an
How was the Quran compiled? This article traces the three stages, from the Prophet's scribes to Abu Bakr's collection, and refutes the…
Did Islam Abolish Polygamy? Exploring the Facts and Misconceptions
Some modernists claim the Quran intended to abolish polygamy. This article examines that argument verse by verse and shows why it contradicts…
Brief Guide to Hadith and Sunnah: Part 1
What is the difference between Hadith and Sunnah? This guide covers scholarly definitions and the Quranic and hadith proofs for the authority…