Hashiya 'ala Sharh Sughra al-Sughra (حاشية على شرح صغرى الصغرى), authored by the contemporary Jordanian theologian Sheikh Saeed Foudeh and published by Dar al-Aslein, is a highly regarded modern gloss on one of the foundational texts of Ash'ari theology ('Aqidah). Combining classical scholarship with contemporary analysis, it helps students navigate the concise and highly technical theological writings of Imam Muhammad ibn Yusuf al-Sanusi (d. 895 AH).
Sughra al-Sughra ("The Smallest of the Smallest") is the briefest of Imam al-Sanusi's celebrated series of creedal manuals. Despite its size, it presents the essential rational proofs for the existence and attributes of Allah and the truthfulness of the Messengers with remarkable precision. Recognizing its density, Imam al-Sanusi later wrote his own commentary (Sharh) to explain its concise arguments and logical structure.
About the Author
Sheikh Saeed Foudeh (b. 1967) is one of the leading contemporary scholars of Ash'ari theology, logic (Mantiq), and Islamic philosophy. Through his teaching and extensive writings, he has played a major role in reviving the study of classical Sunni theology while demonstrating its continued relevance in addressing modern philosophical and intellectual challenges.
About the Hashiya
A hashiya is a super-commentary that explains subtle linguistic, logical, and theological points left implicit in the primary commentary. Sheikh Saeed Foudeh's gloss is especially valuable for its clarity, precision, and systematic presentation.
Among its notable features are:
• Careful explanation of Imam al-Sanusi's logical arguments and syllogisms in a clear, accessible style.
• Precise definitions of technical terminology used in classical Ash'ari theology.
• Clarification of difficult passages and correction of common misunderstandings.
• Connections between classical theological discussions and contemporary philosophical questions, demonstrating the enduring relevance of traditional Sunni theology.
The Dar al-Aslein Edition
Dar al-Aslein of Amman is widely respected for publishing high-quality works on Ash'ari and Maturidi theology, logic, Islamic philosophy, and Usul al-Fiqh. Its editions are known for careful editing, excellent typography, and a commitment to preserving the classical Sunni scholarly tradition.
Who Is This Book For?
This is best suited for intermediate students who have already studied a basic text in creed (like Aqidah al-Tawhawiyyah or Umm al-Barahin) and have a basic exposure to logic (mantiq). For them this book is the perfect transition. It will train their mind to think like a classical theologian (Mutakallim) and prepare them for advanced texts like Sharh al-Aqa’id al-Nasafiyyah.