HanaaFathyAlSayed Muhammad Abd AlKhaliq., HanaaFathyAlSayed Muhammad Abd AlKhaliq.

doi:10.21608/bfsgm.2024.401268

"The Principle of Considering the Generality of the Word Over the Specificity of the Cause: An Applied fundamental Study.

Author

HanaaFathyAlSayed Muhammad Abd AlKhaliq. HanaaFathyAlSayed Muhammad Abd AlKhaliq.

, Al-Azhar University , Egypt .

10.21608/bfsgm.2024.401268

Abstract

The principle of "considering the generality of the word over the specificity of the cause" is an important issue for usuli scholars and jurists. Generality is one of the fundamental topics in usul that scholars cannot do without studying it, as it assists jurists in issuing rulings on emerging issues and contemporary matters. Moreover, adhering to the principle "considering the generality of the word over the specificity of the cause" provides ease for the obligated individuals and alleviates hardship, which is a key objective of the noble Sharia. Consequently, scholars have disagreed on this principle; some have favored the generality of the word while others have preferred the specificity of the cause. This disagreement has clearly affected the branches of jurisprudence. I have divided my research titled "The Principle of Considering the Generality of the Word over the Specificity of the Cause: An Applied fundamental Study" into a; preface, two main sections, and a conclusion. As for the preface, it introduces the terminology of the research and explains the difference between the issues of particulars and the consideration of the generality of the word. The first section discusses the opinions of usuli scholars regarding the principle of considering the generality of the word over the specificity of the cause, consisting of four topics: the first topic addresses the definitions of generality and specificity; the second topic clarifies the points of contention in the principle and its forms; the third topic presents the opinions of usuli scholars regarding the principle, their evidence, discussions, and preferences; and the fourth topic examines related principles and scholars’ opinions concerning them, which includes four branches: the first branch discusses whether the specific address to the Prophet (peace be upon him) applies to the ummah; the second branch questions whether the orally transmitted address is limited to those present; the third branch considers the address that includes both the Prophet and the ummah; and the fourth branch pertains to the specific address directed to an individual from the ummah. The second section focuses on the jurisprudential applications of the principle in the areas of worship, transactions, food, and hunting. The prevailing opinion is that "considering the generality of the word over the specificity of the cause" aligns with the general principles of Sharia and reflects the practices of the companions (may Allah be pleased with them) and the jurists of the ummah

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