by means of the Qur’an, bound us to worship in accordance with its rulings, made us part of the nation of Muhammad—His Prophet, His Messenger, and the seal of His prophets—and inspired us to follow his Sunnah. To Him, therefore, belongs abundant praise, as befits His majesty. I praise Him in gratitude for the favors already bestowed and ask for yet more of His blessings. I seek His help in safeguarding the rights He has entrusted to us, and I implore Him for the assistance that comes only through His enabling grace. May Allah bless our master Muhammad, His Messenger.

As to what follows: one of my brothers—an earnest seeker of knowledge, devoted and eager to learn more—asked me to compile for him a concise book of fiqh that would gather the issues that are fundamental and foundational, upon which subsidiary matters are built, and that would set out the clear proofs concerning the benefits of rulings and the knowledge of what is lawful and unlawful. He wanted a work that is comprehensive yet refined, sufficient yet accessible, concise, well-arranged, and suitable for review when one is busy or when the tedium of study overtakes a person; a work that would spare him from lengthy tomes and serve as a substitute for discussion when no instructor is available. I decided to comply with his request, hoping thereby to assist the scholar whose time is limited and to benefit the student who seeks guidance, all in pursuit of the reward of Allah, Mighty and Majestic.