Life in the Middle Maghreb Through the Book "Durar Al-Muknunah Fi Nawazil Mazouna" - Prayer Questions as a Model

Abstract

This scholarly paper attempts to present some aspects of The Middle Maghreb society through books of fatwas and legal issues, shedding light on an important source by Abu Zakariya Yahya ibn Musa ibn Isa ibn Yahya Al-Maghili Al-Mazouni (d. 883 AH/1478 CE). He rendered significant services to his community and the Islamic nation as a whole through the answers he elaborated in his legal encyclopaedia "Durar al-Muknunah fi Nawazil Mazouna", which were in line with their reality, addressed the concerns of people from different social classes and proposed practical solutions to their problems in various fields: worship, personal affairs, economics and behaviour. It became their sufficient guide and comprehensive legal reference.

The article focuses on one chapter of the book, specifically "Prayer Issues", by examining the legal issue and exploring it beyond its legal content. This approach reveals the political, cultural, ethical and doctrinal features of society. The book discusses all segments of society, including the poor and the rich, rulers, judges and merchants, especially the general public and the marginalised. It does not overlook women and discusses their situation. It describes some customs and traditions and highlights the environmental conditions of the society. It also emphasises the society's adherence to noble ethics. It can be said that the book vividly depicts the reality of the people, captures their hopes and offers a cure for their sorrows.