Origin and Development of Fiqh literature in Indian Subcontinent

Abstract

Fiqh was one of the most important subjects of Islamic learning during Muslim rule in India which is generally known as Medieval India. The Ulama of this period took special interest in this subject as most of them who came from different parts of Central Asia were jurists. Secondly, learning of Fiqh was considered important for seeking nearness of sultan or getting some administrative posts. So it formed a popular branch of learning for teaching as well as writing books. On the other hand, the rulers of that period especially the early Sultans showed interest in the promotion of this science either under the influence of the Ulama of their court or due to administration requirement. They patronized and encouraged particularly those Ulama who contributed to Islamic jurisprudence through teaching and writing. The Madaris or institution of Islamic learning came to be established under the state's patronage from the very early period of the Muslim rule in India and their number continued to increase with expansion of the Muslim rule. Islamic jurisprudence formed essential part of the curriculum of Madaris of those days India. The present work is an analytical study of the Arabic flqh literature produced in India. It is a humble attempt to provide necessary information about the Arabic fiqii works written by the Indian Ulama. It gives an insight into the development of fiqh literature through different periods of Muslim rule in India (Sultanate and Mughal period.)