Rules of Creed-Based Fatwa According to Sheikh Abdul Aziz Bin Baz "May Allah Have Mercy on Him": A Foundational, Analytical and Applied Study 10.35781/1637-000-164-002

Abstract

Abstract

This research examines the rules of creed-based fatwa (al-ifta' al-'aqadi) according to Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Baz (d. 1420 AH / 1999 CE) – may Allah have mercy on him – through his creed-related fatwas, within the framework of a foundational, analytical, and applied study aimed at highlighting the Salafi methodology in the domain of creed-based fatwa. The research seeks to elucidate the features of the Salafi methodology in creed-based fatwa through a comprehensive survey of the Sheikh's fatwas on matters of belief, with a systematic analysis of the rules that governed his responses, linking them to the foundations of the Salaf's creed concerning reception, reasoning, and understanding. The study also addresses the concept and gravity of creed-based fatwa, and reveals the most prominent rules adopted by the Sheikh – may Allah have mercy on him – in this domain, namely: adherence to evidence from the Qur'an and Sunnah according to the understanding of the Salaf (may Allah have mercy on them), warning against theological innovations (bida' 'aqadiyyah) and dialectical theology (al-manahij al-kalamiyyah), and observing the higher objectives of Shariah (al-maqasid al-shar'iyyah) in issuing fatwas without compromising the fundamentals of creed. The research also highlights moderation (al-wasatiyyah) and balance, as well as refuting creedal deviations and extremism in takfir (excommunication) and tabdi' (accusing others of innovation). The research concludes that the fatwas of Sheikh Ibn Baz – may Allah have mercy on him – represent a well-established applied model of creed-based fatwa disciplined by the Salafi methodology, and that his rules have clearly contributed to protecting the sanctity of creed, strengthening adherence to the Qur'an and Sunnah, and achieving balance between legal clarification and missionary wisdom.

Keywords: (Creed-based fatwa, Ibn Baz, Salaf's creed, Rules, Fatwa)