A madhab (plural: madhahib) is a school of Islamic legal thought that provides a systematic framework for deriving rulings from the Quran and Sunnah. The four major Sunni madhabs — Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali — were established by their respective founding scholars and developed by generations of jurists over centuries.
Each madhab shares the same foundational sources (Quran and Sunnah) but may differ in methodology for deriving specific rulings. These differences are most apparent in areas where the primary texts allow for multiple interpretations. In the context of Zakat, madhab differences affect the treatment of personal jewelry, the application of debt deductions, and specific thresholds for agricultural produce.
In Shia Islam, the Ja'fari school (also known as Twelver or Ithna Ashari) is the predominant school of jurisprudence. It has its own distinct methodology and rulings, including the Khums obligation, which is not found in the same form in Sunni schools. Mizaan supports all five major schools to ensure accurate calculations for all Muslims.
Related Terms
Hanafi(حنفي)
The largest Sunni school of jurisprudence, founded by Imam Abu Hanifa. Considers all gold and silver zakatable regardless of personal use.
Shafi'i(شافعي)
A major Sunni school of jurisprudence founded by Imam al-Shafi'i. Considers all gold and silver zakatable, similar to the Hanafi position.
Maliki(مالكي)
A major Sunni school of jurisprudence founded by Imam Malik. Exempts personal jewelry from Zakat up to a customary amount.
Hanbali(حنبلي)
A major Sunni school of jurisprudence founded by Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal. Exempts personal jewelry from Zakat entirely.
Fatwa(فتوى)
A non-binding Islamic legal opinion issued by a qualified scholar (mufti) in response to a specific question.
Ijtihad(اجتهاد)
Independent legal reasoning by a qualified scholar to derive Islamic rulings on matters not explicitly addressed in the Quran or Sunnah.
Related Tools
Calculate Your Zakat Now
Use our multi-madhab Zakat calculator with live Nisab prices. Supports all 5 schools of thought with madhab-specific rules.
Start CalculatingMizaan provides educational guidance based on established fiqh. This is not a fatwa service. For personal rulings, consult a qualified scholar.