Definition and Meaning
Hilli, Jamal al-Din Hasan ibn Yusuf ibn Ali ibn al-Mutahhar al- (1250-1325) was a prominent scholar and jurist of the Imami Shii community. His extensive works covered various disciplines, including grammar, logic, hadith, jurisprudence, and theology. Among his significant contributions is the robust elaboration of the concept of ijtihad (independent reasoning in jurisprudence), which reshaped Shii legal theory.
Etymology and Background
The name Hilli (الحلي) signifies his origin from Hillah, a city in modern-day Iraq. The full name Jamal al-Din translates to “Beauty of the Religion,” reflecting his esteemed standing as a religious scholar. His lineage, marked by multiple “ibn” (son of), highlights his noble ancestry.
Historical Facts and Dates
- Birth: 1250 in Hillah, Iraq
- Death: 1325
- Major Works: “Mukhtalaf al-Shi’a,” “Tahdhib al-Ahkam,” “Sharh al-Lum’ah”
- Contribution: Integrated and systematized ijtihad within Shii thought.
Cultural Context
Cultural Differences
- Sunni vs. Shii: Hilli’s emphasis on ijtihad contrasts with Sunni principles where taqlid (emulation) of established scholars is more prominent.
Cultural Similarities
- Shared Respect for Scholars: Both Sunni and Shii communities revere their scholars for preserving and interpreting Islamic jurisprudence.
Synonyms
- Imami Scholar
- Mujtahid (one who exercises ijtihad)
Antonyms
- Muqallid (one who practices taqlid, emulation in jurisprudence)
Related Terms
- Ijtihad: Independent reasoning in the context of Islamic jurisprudence.
- Taqlid: Emulation of legal decisions by recognized authorities.
- Hadith: Sayings, actions, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad.
Exciting Facts
- Exceptionally Prolific: Authored extensive works in multiple disciplines including one of the foundational texts for Shii jurisprudence.
- Student of Allama Hilli: His legacy was carried and expanded upon by numerous students, ensuring the continuation of his scholarship.
Quotations
“One of the most admirable aspects of Hilli’s contributions is his ability to bridge traditional thought with the necessity of ijtihad. This fusion has paved the way for contemporary Shii jurisprudence.” – Notable Scholar in Islamic History
Further Studies and Inspiration
- Reading Recommendations:
- “The Book of Guidance into the Lives of the Noble” by Syed Amjad Ali
- “Understanding Shiite Leadership: The Art of Pioneering” by Hamid Dabashi
Other Sources
- Encyclopaedia Iranica: Comprehensive information on Persian scholars.
- Oxford Islamic Studies Online: Broad access to articles on Islamic history and figures.
Translations
- Arabic: الحلي، جمال الدين حسن بن يوسف بن علي بن المطهر الحلي
- Persian: جمالالدین حسن ابن یوسف ابن علی ابن المطهر حلی
- Urdu: حلّی، جمال الدین حسن ابن یوسف ابن علی ابن المطهر الحلّی
May you be inspired by the deep intellectual heritage of scholars such as Hilli, and may it lead you to seek knowledge and wisdom.
Best Regards, Noura Hussein
