Arabic ...

Arabic : syntax, conjugation, vocabulary, semantics, oratory as the Qur’an and Traditions are in Arabic, without knowing at least the usual standard of the Arabic language and literature it is not possible to benefit from the Qur’an and the Traditions. 2. Commentary upon the Holy Qur’an ( tafsir ). Taking into consideration the fact that the jurisprudents must use the Qur’an as a point of reference, some knowledge in the study of the commentaries upon the Qur’an is absolutely essential. 3.

Logic , called mantiq in Islam. Every branch of learning in which reasoning is used stands in need of logic. 4. The study of the Traditions . The jurisprudent must have a sound knowledge of the Traditions and must be able to distinguish the different types of Traditions and they become acquainted with the language of the Traditions as a result of their frequent application. 5. The study of the Transmitters ( rijal ).

The study of the Transmitters means knowing the identities and natures of those who have transmitted the Traditions. Later it will be explained how the Traditions existing in the sanctuary of books of Traditions cannot be accepted without examination. The study of the Transmitters is the examining and scrutiny of the men who make up the chains ( isnad ) of reporters of the Traditions. 6. The study of the Principles of Jurisprudence .

The most important branch of learning in preparation for jurisprudence is the principles of jurisprudence, a delightful subject and one originated by Muslims. The Principles of Jurisprudence is, in reality, the "study of the rules to be used in deducing the Islamic laws" and it teaches us the correct and valid way of deducing from the relevant sources in jurisprudence.

In this way, Principles, like logic, is a study of instructions, and is more a skill than a branch of knowledge, meaning that in jurisprudence, that which is discussed is a chain of things that must be, rather than a chain of things which are.