Methods of Al-'Arfu As-Shadzi and Tuhfatul Ahwazi: A Comparative Study

This study explores the works of two distinguished Islamic scholars, Al-'Arfu As-Shadzi and Tuhfatul Ahwazi, who lived in different historical periods. Al-'Arfu As-Shadzi's contributions are linked to the 10th century, while Tuhfatul Ahwazi's work dates back to the 18th century. Al-'Arfu As-Shadzi primarily focuses on fiqh, the science of Islamic jurisprudence, whereas Tuhfatul Ahwazi is recognized for his insights into hadith literature. These two books are pivotal for comparative studies due to various reasons, particularly concerning historical perspectives and the curiosity surrounding why they were commented on in nearly the same period, differing only by a few years. Analyzing the research methods applied by Al-'Arfu As-Shadzi and Tuhfatul Ahwazi allows us to discern the distinct approaches they employed in their studies. Comparative study unveils both the commonalities and distinctions in their research methodologies, shedding light on the factors that influenced their methods, including cultural and intellectual influences, educational backgrounds, and resource access. Moreover, the research delves into how both authors interpret the content of their respective books. The analysis of their interpretation methods aims to grasp the fundamental principles and methodologies they employ. This examination explores the diverse techniques each author utilizes and evaluates their effectiveness in conveying intended messages. Additionally, the study seeks to comprehend the authors' understanding and approach to composing their works, unraveling their perspectives, thought processes, and methodologies in structuring their writings. Gaining insight into the composition process of Anwar Shah Al-Kashmiri and Abdul Rahman Al-Mubarakfuri allows for a deeper understanding of their intentions and unique contributions. By describing the authors' backgrounds, analyzing their interpretation methods, understanding their approach to composition, and comparing the similarities and differences between their works, this research aims to enrich our understanding of the contributions made by Anwar Shah Al-Kashmiri and Abdul Rahman Al-Mubarakfuri to the field of Islamic scholarship. Through a comparison of their research methods, the evolution of research methodologies, specifically qualitative study, is discerned by referencing past studies and making these books the primary reference. The findings from this literature review underscore the significance of analyzing the methods employed in "Al-'Arfu As-Shadzi" and "Tuhfatul Ahwazi," highlighting the distinctive contributions and methodologies of Al-Kashmiri and Al-Mubarakfuri to the field of hadith science.