Various books on Usul al-Fiqh are available in English, however after reviewing them it becomes clear that most are written for academic purposes rather than for the normal reader. In this regard the excellent book written by Abu Tariq Hilal entitled „Studies in Usul al-Fiqh‟ stands out. It was written in a clear simple style understandable to the average reader.

I have slightly restructured the book so that the definitive sources of law are discussed before those upon which there is disagreement amongst the scholars. The chapters on the Quran, Qiyas, Ijtihad and Taqleed were brief in the original. I have added to these and in some cases rewritten sections where elaboration was required. In this age of doubt and scepticism I felt it necessary to add some textual evidences and much needed references for some definitions and Ahadith. To distinguish this amended version from the original a new title has been given that keeps to the simplicity of the original.

It is clear that in writing the original, Abu Tariq referred to Sheikh Taqiuddin an-Nabhani‟s (ra) masterpiece „Shaksiyyah Islamiyyah‟ (The Islamic Personality). I have done the same, as well as referring to the excellent book „Teyseer al wusool Ila al-Usul‟ (To make understanding Usul easy) by Sheikh Ata ibn Khalil Abu al-Rishta (May Allah protect him).

I would like to thank Sheikh Abu Omar al-Khazraji for his support and checking of the book, Maulana Umar Farooq Nadwi for reviewing it, Qari Fazlul Karim for helping with the Arabic as well as my wife, Shifaa for her valuable input and support.

Abu Ismael al-Beirawi Ramadhan 1428 AH.

October 2007 CE.