Hanafi Sunni Madhhab
Learning Islam is a lifelong journey. Books and scholars are the lamps that guide the way. But with so much content online, it is easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure where to begin.
This page shares trusted books and scholars from the Hanafi Sunni tradition, the most widely followed school in the UK and globally. If you are just starting or want to go deeper, this is your safe, balanced entry point.
Why Follow a Madhhab?
A madhhab is not a sect. It is a legal school based on the Qur’an, Hadith, and sound scholarly interpretation. The Hanafi madhhab was founded by Imam Abu Hanifah in the second century of Islam and is known for:
- Practical rulings for everyday life
- Strong foundations in reasoning and consensus
- A balanced approach to law and spirituality
The Hanafi school is followed by many Muslims in South Asia, Turkey, the Balkans, Central Asia, and parts of the Middle East and UK.
“Whoever follows a qualified scholar has followed the truth.”
(Paraphrased from classical usul texts)
Beginner-Friendly Books (English)
These are ideal for new learners, reverts, or anyone building their foundations:
| Book Title | Author | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Being Muslim | Asad Tarsin | A clear, modern guide to core beliefs, worship, and character |
| Absolute Essentials of Islam | Faraz Rabbani (translation) | Based on classical Hanafi fiqh and creed |
| Reliance of the Traveller (selected parts) | Nuh Ha Mim Keller | Although Shafi’i in origin, includes valuable sections on beliefs and ethics |
| The Beginner’s Book of Prayer | Abdur Rahman ibn Yusuf | Covers daily duas, etiquette, and Hanafi salah |
| Fiqh al-Imam | Abdur Rahman ibn Yusuf | Explains why the Hanafi way of prayer is authentic and based on Hadith |
Intermediate Texts (English)
When you are ready to deepen your knowledge:
| Book Title | Author | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hedaya (The Guidance) | Burhan al-Din al-Marghinani (abridged) | A classic Hanafi manual of law, translated into English |
| The Essentials of Islamic Faith | Shaykh Nuh Ha Mim Keller | A deep dive into Sunni Aqeedah (beliefs) |
| Introduction to the Sciences of the Qur’an | Yasir Qadhi | While not Hanafi-specific, it gives essential context for all readers |
| The Key to Paradise | Imam Nawawi (translated) | On sincerity and intentions — part of every madhhab’s tradition |
Reliable English-Speaking Scholars (Hanafi Sunni)
These scholars or teachers are grounded in traditional knowledge and are active in English-speaking countries. Follow their classes, YouTube videos, or websites for ongoing learning:
🇬🇧 UK-Based
- Mufti Abdur Rahman Mangera – Zamzam Academy, Whitethread Institute
- Shaykh Abdal Hakim Murad (Tim Winter) – Cambridge Muslim College
- Mufti Muhammad ibn Adam al-Kawthari – Darul Iftaa Leicester
- Shaykh Zahir Mahmood – As-Suffa Institute, Birmingham
- Mufti Liaquat Zaman – Roots Academy, online Hanafi classes
- Shaykh Shams Ad-Duha Muhammad – Islamic Courses UK
🌍 International (teaching in English)
- Shaykh Faraz Rabbani – SeekersGuidance, Canada
- Mufti Taqi Usmani – Senior Hanafi jurist, Pakistan (many works now in English)
- Shaykh Hamza Yusuf – Though not Hanafi, a widely respected traditional scholar
Good Online Learning Platforms
Until you find a teacher locally, these trusted platforms offer online courses in Hanafi fiqh and more:
- SeekersGuidance.org – Free structured Islamic courses
- ZamzamAcademy.com – Hanafi-focused lessons and fatwas
- Whitethread Institute – Advanced fiqh for scholars
- Daruliftaa.com – Q&A with Mufti Ibn Adam, Leicester
- As-Suffa Institute – Courses and events across the UK
For Sisters: Books and Resources
While all of the above are useful, these specifically help sisters navigate their unique situations with clarity:
- Heavenly Ornaments (Bahishti Zewar) – Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi
- Islamic Manners for Women – Various publishers
- Menstruation and Worship – Shaykh Faraz Rabbani (short articles)
Caution on Content
Not everything labelled “Islamic” online is authentic or safe. Stick with teachers who:
- Follow one of the four Sunni madhhabs
- Are endorsed by other respected scholars
- Avoid divisive speech or politics
- Encourage good character and community unity
If in doubt, ask someone local or use platforms with reviewable track records.
Quote to Reflect On
“The scholars are the inheritors of the Prophets.”
(Sunan Abi Dawood, 3641)
Knowledge protects, uplifts, and guides. Books feed the mind, but scholars nurture the soul.