List of Books by al-Shaykh al-Saduq

Al-Shaykh al-Saduq, also known as Abu Ja’far Muhammad ibn Ali al-Saduq, occupies a preeminent position in the corpus of Shia Islamic scholarship. Born in the 10th century CE, he was instrumental in the development and propagation of Shia thought. Al-Saduq’s contributions are manifold; however, his extensive writings, namely books and treatises, provide profound insights into various theological, ethical, and legal dimensions of Islam. This article endeavors to illuminate his noteworthy works, elucidating the diverse thematic content they encompass.

Among al-Saduq’s significant theological texts is the influential work titled “On the Principles of Faith.” This book delves into the tenets of Imamate, prophecy, and resurrection, offering a systematic exploration of the Shia faith’s philosophical foundations. Readers can expect a rigorous examination of dogmatic principles, supported by Quranic evidence and Hadith, which secures the theological scaffolding necessary for a comprehensive understanding of Shia belief.

Another seminal work is “Man La Yahduruhu al-Faqih,” a pivotal text in Shia jurisprudence that serves as a compendium of legal rulings and ethical guidelines. This text is particularly notable for its accessibility; it caters not only to scholars but also to laypersons seeking guidance in everyday matters. Al-Saduq’s meticulously organized approach allows readers to navigate the complexities of Islamic law with relative ease. The book encompasses a wide range of topics, from ritual purity and prayer to dietary laws, reflecting the holistic nature of Islamic teachings.

In “Al-Amali,” al-Saduq compiles a series of discourses that address both jurisprudential issues and theological matters. This work emerges as a collection of hadiths presented in a narrative format, accentuated by bimodal delineations of scholarly discourse. Readers will find an array of subjects, including morality, the rewards of good deeds, and the societal duties of a believer. The engaging style of this text renders it both an academic resource and a moral exhortation.