Imam Maturidi: Architect of Islamic Creed

Authors

Abstract

Imam Maturidi, Architect of Islamic Creed by Dr Yusof Mutahar is a comprehensive study of the life, works, and enduring influence of Imām Abū Manṣūr al-Māturīdī (d. 944 CE), one of the principal architects of classical Islamic theology. Written by Dr Yusof Mutahar, the book explores al-Māturīdī’s intellectual world, his theological vision, and the emergence of the Māturīdī school that shaped much of the Ḥanafī world for over a millennium. The work traces the historical and spiritual formation of al-Māturīdī, analyses his major writings—Kitāb al-Tawḥīd and Ta’wīlāt Ahl al-Sunna—and examines how his ideas bridged revelation and reason, defending orthodox belief against both rationalist and literalist extremes. It also discusses the spread of the Māturīdī school across Central Asia, the Ottoman Empire, and the Indian Subcontinent, and highlights its continued relevance in addressing modern atheism, extremism, and secular doubt. Blending rigorous historical research with refined theological reflection, Imam Maturidi: Architect of Islamic Creed seeks to revive a foundational pillar of classical Islamic thought. It portrays al-Māturīdī not merely as a medieval theologian but as a timeless guide for reconciling faith and intellect in the contemporary age.