The Methodology of Affirmation (Ithbat) and Transcendence (Tanzih) Regarding the Informational Attributes (al-Sifat al-Khabariyya) According to the Maliki School: A Creedal Study of the Book "Al-Jami'" by Ibn Yunus al-Siqilli (d. 451 AH)

Abstract

This research paper aims to elucidate the theological methodology of Imam Ibn Yunus al-Siqilli, a preeminent figure of the Maliki school in Kairouan and a pillar of Maliki jurisprudence. The study examines his methodological approach in reconciling the scriptural affirmation (al-ithbat al-sam‘i) of "informational attributes" (al-sifat al-khabariyya)—such as the Face, Hands, and Istiwa—with rational transcendence (al-tanzih al-‘aqli), which negates contingency (huduth), composition (tarkib), and spatial confinement (hayyiz) from the Divine Essence.

The study employs a descriptive, analytical, and comparative methodology by scrutinizing theological passages embedded within his seminal work, Al-Jami‘ li-Masa’il al-Mudawwana. These views are contextualized alongside the formulations of early Ash‘arite masters, such as Al-Baqillani (d. 403 AH) and Ibn Furak (d. 406 AH).

The findings indicate that Ibn Yunus al-Siqilli represents an authentic Maliki-Ash‘arite trend; he affirms the khabari attributes while categorically denying anthropomorphic limbs (jariha) or divisibility (tab‘id). He adheres to the principle of "literal affirmation with semantic delegation" (al-tafwid al-ma‘nawi), countering both anthropomorphism (tajsim) and Mu‘tazilite rationalism. Furthermore, the research reveals the organic unity between jurisprudence and theology in his thought, evidenced by his dedication of a specific chapter to diverse theological issues. Ultimately, this study highlights the overlooked kalamic (theological) contributions of a distinguished jurist and provides an empirical model of how the Maliki legal mind engaged with "ambiguous texts" (al-mutashabihat) during the 5th century AH.