Four Sunni schools of jurisprudence

The four Sunni schools of jurisprudence—Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali—are different methods used by Islamic scholars to interpret and apply religious law (Shariah). They developed from different regions and academic traditions, leading to varied approaches in legal reasoning and rulings. Hanafi is the earliest and most flexible, prevalent in South Asia and Turkey. Maliki emphasizes tradition and practices of early Muslims, common in North and West Africa. Shafi'i combines teachings of the Quran, Hadith, and consensus, widespread in Southeast Asia and Egypt. Hanbali is the most conservative, influential in Saudi Arabia. Despite differences, all align with Sunni core beliefs.