The Contributions of Ibadi scholars in the 6th century AH/12th century AD in Warjalan, Algeria to the maturity of Islamic theology

Abstract

The 6th century AH/12th century AD saw a vibrant scientific movement in doctrinal research by Ibadi scholars in Warjalan, southern Algeria. They produced distinctive works outlining their scholastic vision in a coherent format, focusing on three main areas: explaining the fundamentals of true Islam, defending its principles and rejecting doubts from false religions and ancient philosophies; discussing the views of various Islamic schools on major and subtle theological issues, showing the Ibadi approach in addressing them; and formulating concise doctrinal systems stating Ibadi positions on all disputed matters. Their methods in the science of belief were diverse, including the educational, critical, argumentative, questioning, comparative and dialogical, cumulative, and analytical-explanatory approaches, all aimed at clarification and persuasion.