Imam Muhammad ibn Idris al-Shafi’i was perhaps the greatest legal theorist of human history. A pupil of Imam Malik, he strove constantly to root Muslim practice in the blessed ways of the Chosen One, upon him be peace. Thus he was honoured with the title ‘Nasir al-Sunna’, the Supporter of the Sunna.
This emphasis on transmission was matched by his underlining the principle of aql, intellect, in solving problems of doctrine and law.
A deeply-cultured human being, he was noted for his skill in archery and poetry, as well for his mastery of Sacred Law.