Portrait of a Jurist between Obedience and Rebellion

Even though there is a consensus among Muslim scholars that rebellion without valid grounds not acceptable, they have disagreed on the permissibility of against an unjust ruler. Abū Ḥanīfa has pivotal place in these debates, as he eponym law school first dedicated special chapter to (baghy) its legal texts. Interestingly, however, views attributed him topic are inconsistent: Some sources claim acknowledged legitimacy even ruler’s rule avoiding unrest (fitna). Other argue supported armed struggle rulers fulfill principle al-amr bi-l-maʿrūf wa-l-nahy ʿan al-munkar (enjoining right and forbidding wrong). Ḥanīfa’s connection some major revolts his day Umayyads or Abbasids also contested. The aim this paper collect evaluate diverse references variety examine motives behind conflicting narratives. In conclusion, I quietist image seems gained popularity over time, but it outweighed by reports about support for movements rulers.