Risalah fi al-Tawhid رسالة في التوحيد

Risala fi al-Tawhid (رسالة في التوحيد) is a concise theological treatise traditionally attributed to Imam Abu Mansur al-Maturidi (d. 333 AH / 944 CE), the founding theologian of the Maturidi school of Sunni creed. While far shorter than his celebrated Kitab al-Tawhid, this epistle presents a succinct summary of the essential principles of Islamic belief and offers readers an accessible introduction to the theological legacy of one of Sunni Islam's greatest scholars.

A Concise Summary of Maturidi Theology

Unlike Kitab al-Tawhid, which is a comprehensive and highly technical work addressing theological, philosophical, and sectarian debates, Risala fi al-Tawhid distills the core doctrines of the Maturidi school into a brief and readable format. It outlines the fundamental principles of belief concerning Allah, His attributes, prophethood, revelation, and other essential matters of Sunni creed without engaging in lengthy philosophical discussions or detailed refutations.

Although the treatise itself occupies only about thirty pages, it faithfully reflects the theological approach that made Imam al-Maturidi one of the foremost architects of orthodox Sunni theology.

The Question of Attribution

One of the most valuable aspects of this publication is its extensive introductory study, which occupies nearly half of the volume. The editor carefully examines the manuscript evidence and scholarly discussions surrounding the treatise's attribution to Imam al-Maturidi.

Some modern researchers suggest that the work may represent a summary compiled by one of Imam al-Maturidi's direct students or early followers rather than being written by the Imam himself. Others maintain that it is authentically his. Regardless of the precise authorship, scholars generally agree that the contents accurately represent the early teachings of the Maturidi school and closely summarize the doctrines presented in Kitab al-Tawhid.

This scholarly discussion makes the edition valuable not only for its theological content but also for its contribution to the study of Islamic manuscript history and the transmission of classical texts.

Who Is This Book For?

This work is best suited for intermediate and advanced students of Islamic creed, researchers of Sunni theology, and anyone interested in the development of the Maturidi tradition. It also serves as an excellent introductory companion to Kitab al-Tawhid, providing readers with a concise overview before engaging with Imam al-Maturidi's larger and more demanding masterpiece.

Features of This Edition

This edition combines the brief theological treatise with a substantial academic study investigating its attribution, manuscript history, and relationship to Imam al-Maturidi's established works. The result is a compact yet valuable resource for students of Aqidah, Islamic intellectual history, and Maturidi scholarship. It offers both a reliable summary of classical Sunni theology and an insightful examination of one of the important texts associated with the Maturidi tradition.