Abû Salama as-Samarqandî and his understanding of kalam

Abû Salama as-Samarqandî, was an important early period theologian who lived during the formation of the Maturidi theological school and became a significant figure within this school as a disciple of a disciple of Imam Maturidi, the founder of the Maturidiyya school. His theological system stands out as a classic Maturidi theological framework, elaborated upon in his work. This study focuses on his theological understanding and highlights the influence of his upbringing and surroundings on its development. Given his temporal proximity to Imam Maturidi and his upbringing in Samarqand, it is evident that the influence of both the Maturidism School and the region of Samarkand strongly shaped his theological system. His approach to defining knowledge and addressing sources of knowledge is akin to that found in "Kitabu't-Tawhid." It can be observed that he employs methods of interpretation (ta'wil), metaphorical expression (majaz), and exonerative statements (tenzih) as his means of conveying knowledge. He establishes a distinction between eternal-hadith existence and the contingent nature of the world, asserting that the world is created later. While discussing the three fundamental principles often addressed in classical theological works (divinity, prophethood, afterlife), he dedicates significant attention to divinity and prophethood. Additionally, he engages in debates, discussions, and confrontations regarding concepts from the Mu'tazili tradition, such as destiny (qadar), the ultimate purpose (aslah), enjoining good (amr bil-ma'ruf) and forbidding evil (nahy 'anil-munkar), promises and threats of divine punishment (al-va'd wa'l-va'id), the vision of Allah (ru'yatullah), the Quran, and non-being (maʻdûm). These aspects underscore the significance of his interactions with and responses to Mütazili concepts.