The College of Islamic Sciences at the University of Karbala hosted the defense of a PhD dissertation titled “The Philosophy of Recommended Rulings in Imami Jurisprudence – An Analytical Study,” presented by the student Mohammad Baqir Ali Hashim Al-Hashemi. The defense took place in Imam Hussain Hall at the college.
The dissertation explored recommended rulings (mustahabbat) from multiple perspectives, analyzing the philosophy behind their legislation and examining four key aspects that shape their rationale:
- Attaining higher levels of spiritual and ethical perfection.
- The concept of substitution (ibdal).
- Compensating for deficiencies in obligatory acts.
- Serving as protective measures (hima) for obligatory rulings.
The research also delved into the jurisprudential aspects of recommended rulings, discussing their general principles and related fiqh-based rules, with a particular focus on the “Man Balagh” principle as a case study. Additionally, the study examined the distinctions between obligatory and recommended acts concerning the nature of religious obligation, reviewing various scholarly opinions on the matter.
The final section of the dissertation was dedicated to Usul al-Fiqh (Principles of Jurisprudence), covering topics such as linguistic analysis, rational evidence, and methods of reconciliation (tarājīḥ) among conflicting proofs.
Following an extensive discussion by the defense committee, the dissertation was awarded a distinction (Grade: Excellent), recognizing its scientific significance and in-depth analysis of the philosophy behind recommended rulings in Imami jurisprudence.
