The Prophet’s behavior (p. b. u. h.)

Between fundamental principles and rules of argumentation

Abstract

Submission date: 07 / 04 / 2026

Acceptance date: 31 / 04 / 2026

Publication date: 30 / 03 / 2026

This research examines the fundamental principles of the Prophet’s behavior (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) as a central component of the Prophetic Sunnah and a key element in the argumentative framework of Islamic jurisprudence. It aims to clarify the essence of the Prophet's actions, define their conceptual boundaries, and explain their technical definition according to both Imami and Sunni scholars of Islamic jurisprudence. The research also analyzes the points of agreement and disagreement between these two schools, particularly regarding the impact of doctrinal principles on determining their significance.

The research reviews the juristic classifications of the Prophet's actions in terms of intention, generality and specificity, and the function of clarification. It reveals their methodological significance in guiding legal reasoning, demonstrating that these classifications are not merely formal descriptions but rather foundational tools for regulating the authority of the actions and preventing uncontrolled expansion or restriction. It pays particular attention to the development of the juristic perspective within the Imami school, highlighting its transition from detailed, partial analysis to a stage of comprehensive analysis and theorizing. The research concluded that the Prophet's actions are fundamentally a form of explanatory legislation, but their meaning is determined by context and surrounding evidence. Their position within the hierarchy of legal proofs is fundamental, even if it is not as strong as a direct text in terms of its evidentiary weight. The research emphasizes that re-examining this topic is a methodological necessity to maintain balance in understanding the Sunnah and to protect it from fragmentary or contemporary historicist interpretations.