This stage extends from approximately 750 CE to 950 CE, and covers the rise of the ‘Abbaasid Dynasty founded by Caliph Abul-‘Abbaas (reign 750-754)109, its consolidation and the beginning of its decline. It was during this period that Fiqh took shape as an independent Islamic science; Islamic scholarship was actively supported by the caliph and it flourished as discussion and debate on controversial issues became widespread; Madh-habs multiplied’ various compilations of Hadeeth and Fiqh were made; and Arabic translations of scientific, philosophical and theological works exerted influence on Islamic thought. By the end of the period, Fiqh was clearly divided into two sections; Fundamental principles (Usool)

and secondary principles of scientific, philosophical and theological works (Furoo’); sources of Islamic law were identified and deferences developed between the major Madh-habs separating them from each other. 110