Criteria of Abrogation according to Imam Alam al-Din al-Sakhawi (d. 643 AH) in his book Jamal al-Qurra' (Al-Tawd al-Rasikh fi al-Mansukh wa al-Nasikh as a Model): A Descriptive Study

Abstract

This research explores the principles of abrogation (Naskh) according to Imam Alam al-Din al-Sakhawi (may Allah have mercy on him), as presented in his seminal work, Jamal al-Qurra’ wa Kamal al-Iqra’. Specifically, it examines the section titled Al-Tawd al-Rasikh fi al-Mansukh wa al-Nasikh to elucidate his methodology in determining abrogation, its conditions, and the criteria for its verification.The study highlights the fundamental pillars Al-Sakhawi relied upon when ruling on abrogation, most notably: the existence of irreconcilable contradiction between texts, chronological knowledge (identifying the earlier from the later), the impossibility of reconciliation (Jam’), and the principle of not resorting to abrogation except with explicit evidence. Furthermore, the research illustrates his stance on verses claimed to be abrogated, demonstrating his tendency to minimize such claims, exercise extreme caution in affirming abrogation, and avoid its expansion unless all conditions are strictly met.The research concludes that Al-Sakhawi followed a meticulous and rigorous methodology based on verification and scrutiny. According to his approach, abrogation cannot be established until its essential criteria are fulfilled. He shows a clear inclination toward maintaining the validity of texts (Ihkam) whenever possible, prioritizing reconciliation or interpretation over abrogation in the absence of definitive proof