Ascent to Felicity: The Complete Guide to Hanafi Fiqh for Modern Muslims (2025)
Are you searching for an authentic, comprehensive guide to Islamic jurisprudence that bridges classical scholarship with contemporary understanding? Ascent to Felicity (Maraqi al-Sa'adat) stands as one of the most respected Hanafi fiqh texts, offering Muslims worldwide a clear pathway to understanding the practical rulings of Islam. Whether you're a student beginning your journey in Islamic studies or an advanced learner seeking to deepen your knowledge, this timeless manual provides the foundation every Muslim needs to practice their faith with confidence and clarity.
Why Ascent to Felicity Matters for Muslims Today
In an era where Muslims face countless questions about how to practice their faith authentically, Ascent to Felicity serves as an indispensable resource. Written by the renowned scholar Imam Abu al-Ikhlas al-Shurunbulali (d. 1069 AH), this classical text has guided generations of Muslims in understanding the Hanafi school of Islamic jurisprudence.
The Hanafi madhab is followed by approximately 45% of the world's Muslim population, making it the most widely practiced school of Islamic law. For Muslims in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Turkey, Central Asia, and beyond, understanding Hanafi fiqh is essential for daily worship and religious practice. Ascent to Felicity distills complex legal rulings into accessible language, making it the perfect starting point for serious students of Islamic knowledge.
What makes this book particularly valuable in 2025 is its systematic approach to Islamic law. Rather than presenting isolated rulings, it provides a comprehensive framework that helps readers understand the underlying principles of fiqh. This methodology enables Muslims to not only know what to do but understand why certain practices are prescribed, fostering a deeper connection with their worship.
The text covers all essential aspects of Islamic practice, from purification and prayer to fasting, zakat, and hajj. Each topic is presented with meticulous detail, citing evidence from the Quran and Sunnah while explaining the reasoning of the Hanafi jurists. This makes Ascent to Felicity more than just a rulebook—it's a comprehensive educational tool that transforms how Muslims understand and practice their faith.
About Imam Abu al-Ikhlas al-Shurunbulali: The Scholar Behind the Masterpiece
Imam Hassan ibn Ammar ibn Ali al-Shurunbulali was born in Egypt in 994 AH (1585 CE) and became one of the most distinguished Hanafi scholars of his time. His title "Abu al-Ikhlas" (Father of Sincerity) reflects the purity of his intentions and the depth of his devotion to Islamic scholarship.
Al-Shurunbulali studied under the greatest scholars of his era, mastering not only fiqh but also hadith, tafsir, Arabic grammar, and logic. His expertise in multiple Islamic sciences allowed him to write with exceptional precision and clarity. He served as a teacher at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, where he trained countless students who would go on to become scholars themselves.
What distinguished al-Shurunbulali as an author was his unique ability to condense complex legal discussions into clear, accessible language without sacrificing accuracy. He understood that students needed a text that was both comprehensive and comprehensible—a balance that few scholars have achieved as successfully.
His magnum opus, Maraqi al-Sa'adat (Ascent to Felicity), was written as a commentary on his own earlier work, Nur al-Idah (The Light of Clarification). While Nur al-Idah presents the essential rulings in concise form, Ascent to Felicity expands upon these foundations with detailed explanations, evidence, and scholarly discussions. This two-tiered approach has made both texts standard references in Hanafi fiqh studies worldwide.
The Imam passed away in 1069 AH (1659 CE), leaving behind a legacy of scholarship that continues to benefit Muslims globally. His works remain core texts in Islamic seminaries from India to Turkey, from South Africa to the United Kingdom.
Key Themes and Lessons in Ascent to Felicity
Comprehensive Coverage of Islamic Jurisprudence
Ascent to Felicity is structured to cover all fundamental aspects of Islamic practice in a logical, progressive manner. The book begins with the essential knowledge every Muslim must possess, then moves through the pillars of Islam with meticulous detail.
The section on purification (taharah) is particularly thorough, explaining the different types of water, how to perform wudu and ghusl correctly, and the rulings related to menstruation and post-natal bleeding. This foundation is crucial because purification is a prerequisite for valid prayer, making it the starting point of practical fiqh.
The prayer section covers everything from the conditions and pillars of salah to the detailed rulings on congregational prayer, Friday prayer, Eid prayers, and the prayer of fear. Each aspect is explained with clarity, including common mistakes that invalidate prayer and how to perform prostrations of forgetfulness.
Evidence-Based Methodology
One of the distinguishing features of Ascent to Felicity is its commitment to presenting evidence alongside rulings. Al-Shurunbulali doesn't simply state what is permissible or obligatory; he explains the textual basis from the Quran and authentic hadiths that support each position.
This evidence-based approach serves multiple purposes. First, it strengthens the reader's confidence in the rulings presented. Second, it teaches students how to think like jurists, understanding the methodology of deriving rulings from primary sources. Third, it demonstrates the deep connection between Islamic law and revelation, showing that fiqh is not arbitrary but rooted in divine guidance.
Practical Application for Daily Life
While Ascent to Felicity is a scholarly text, it never loses sight of practical application. The book addresses real-life scenarios that Muslims encounter daily, from workplace prayer accommodations to traveling during Ramadan, from calculating zakat on different types of wealth to the etiquettes of social interactions.
This practical orientation makes the book invaluable for Muslims living in diverse contexts. Whether you're a professional navigating prayer times in a corporate environment, a student managing religious obligations during exams, or a traveler seeking to maintain your worship while on the road, Ascent to Felicity provides clear guidance.
Spiritual Dimensions of Worship
Beyond the technical aspects of Islamic law, al-Shurunbulali weaves in reminders about the spiritual dimensions of worship. He emphasizes that the external actions of Islam must be accompanied by internal sincerity, humility, and consciousness of Allah. This holistic approach prevents fiqh from becoming mere ritualism, instead presenting it as a means of drawing closer to the Divine.
Who Should Read Ascent to Felicity?
Students of Islamic Knowledge
If you're enrolled in an Islamic studies program or studying independently, Ascent to Felicity is an essential text. It's commonly used as a primary textbook in madrasas and Islamic universities worldwide, particularly for intermediate-level students who have completed introductory texts like Nur al-Idah.
The book's systematic structure makes it ideal for structured learning. Students can progress chapter by chapter, building their knowledge incrementally. The detailed explanations help clarify points that might be confusing in more concise texts, while the evidence presented develops critical thinking skills.
Imams and Religious Leaders
For those serving Muslim communities as imams, khatibs, or religious educators, Ascent to Felicity serves as an invaluable reference. The comprehensive coverage ensures you can answer community questions with confidence, while the evidence-based approach allows you to explain not just what the ruling is but why.
Many imams keep this book within arm's reach for quick consultation on specific issues. Its organization makes it easy to locate relevant sections, and the clarity of presentation facilitates explaining complex rulings to community members with varying levels of Islamic knowledge.
Practicing Muslims Seeking Deeper Understanding
You don't need to be a formal student or religious professional to benefit from Ascent to Felicity. Any Muslim who wants to understand their faith more deeply will find this book transformative. If you've ever wondered about the details of your worship, questioned why certain practices are performed in specific ways, or wanted to ensure you're fulfilling your religious obligations correctly, this book provides answers.
The English translation makes the text accessible to Muslims who may not read classical Arabic. While some familiarity with Islamic terminology is helpful, the translation includes explanatory notes that clarify technical terms and concepts.
Converts and New Muslims
For those new to Islam, Ascent to Felicity might seem advanced at first glance. However, many converts find that after learning the basics of prayer and purification, this book becomes an excellent next step. It provides the comprehensive knowledge needed to practice Islam confidently without constantly needing to ask others for guidance.
New Muslims particularly appreciate the detailed explanations of why things are done certain ways. Rather than simply memorizing actions, they can understand the wisdom and purpose behind Islamic practices, which strengthens their connection to the faith.
Detailed Chapter Breakdown: What You'll Learn
Book of Purification (Kitab al-Taharah)
The opening section establishes the foundation of Islamic worship by explaining purification in comprehensive detail. You'll learn about the different categories of water (pure, purifying, used, and impure), the proper method of performing wudu with its obligatory and recommended actions, and the circumstances that nullify ablution.
The chapter on ghusl (ritual bath) explains when it becomes obligatory, how to perform it correctly, and what actions are prohibited while in a state of major impurity. The section on tayammum (dry ablution) covers when this alternative purification method is permitted and how to perform it properly.
Particularly valuable are the detailed discussions on removing impurities from clothing and body, the rulings on menstruation and post-natal bleeding, and the etiquettes of using the restroom. These practical matters affect every Muslim's daily life, making this section essential reading.
Book of Prayer (Kitab al-Salah)
This extensive section forms the heart of the book, reflecting prayer's central importance in Islam. Al-Shurunbulali systematically explains the conditions that must be met before prayer (such as purification, covering the awrah, facing the qiblah, and entering the prayer time), the pillars that constitute the prayer itself, and the necessary actions (wajibat) that must be performed.
You'll learn the detailed rulings on the five daily prayers, including the number of rak'ahs, the recitations required, and the proper positions. The book explains the differences between fard, wajib, sunnah mu'akkadah, and nafl prayers, helping you prioritize your worship appropriately.
Special attention is given to congregational prayer, including the virtues of praying in congregation, the rulings on leading prayer, and how to join a prayer already in progress. The sections on Friday prayer, Eid prayers, and the prayer of fear provide comprehensive guidance for these special occasions.
The chapter on prostrations of forgetfulness (sujud al-sahw) is particularly practical, explaining what to do when you make mistakes during prayer—a common concern for many Muslims.
Book of Funerals (Kitab al-Jana'iz)
This section covers the Islamic practices related to death, from the moment of passing through burial. You'll learn about washing the deceased, shrouding, the funeral prayer, and proper burial procedures. The book also discusses visiting graves, offering condolences, and the etiquettes of mourning.
While this might seem like a somber topic, understanding these rulings is crucial for every Muslim. Death is an inevitable reality, and knowing how to handle it according to Islamic law brings comfort and ensures we honor the deceased appropriately.
Book of Zakat (Kitab al-Zakat)
The zakat section provides detailed guidance on calculating and distributing obligatory charity. Al-Shurunbulali explains the nisab (minimum threshold) for different types of wealth, including gold, silver, cash, trade goods, livestock, and agricultural produce.
You'll learn who is eligible to receive zakat, how to calculate the amount due, and when zakat becomes obligatory. The book also covers zakat al-fitr (the charity given at the end of Ramadan), explaining its amount, timing, and recipients.
For Muslims with complex financial situations—multiple income sources, investments, debts, or business assets—this section provides the clarity needed to fulfill this pillar of Islam correctly.
Book of Fasting (Kitab al-Sawm)
The fasting section covers both obligatory fasting in Ramadan and voluntary fasts throughout the year. You'll learn what invalidates a fast, what is permissible while fasting, and how to make up missed fasts.
The book addresses common questions: Can you use eye drops while fasting? What if you eat or drink forgetfully? How should travelers and sick people handle fasting? What are the rulings for pregnant and nursing women?
The section on i'tikaf (spiritual retreat in the mosque during the last ten days of Ramadan) explains this beautiful sunnah practice, including its conditions, recommended actions, and what nullifies it.
Book of Hajj (Kitab al-Hajj)
For those preparing for the pilgrimage or wanting to understand this pillar of Islam, the hajj section provides comprehensive guidance. Al-Shurunbulali explains the obligations, necessary actions, and recommended practices of both hajj and umrah.
You'll learn about entering ihram, the prohibitions while in the sacred state, the rituals at Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, and the proper method of performing tawaf and sa'i. The book also covers the rulings on sacrificial animals and the violations that require expiation.
How to Get the Most from Ascent to Felicity
Study with a Teacher When Possible
While Ascent to Felicity can be read independently, studying it with a qualified teacher multiplies its benefits. A knowledgeable instructor can clarify difficult points, provide additional context, answer questions, and ensure you're understanding the material correctly.
Many Islamic centers and online platforms offer courses based on this text. If formal classes aren't available in your area, consider joining online study circles or finding a study partner to discuss the material together.
Progress Systematically
Resist the temptation to jump around the book looking for specific rulings. The text is structured to build knowledge progressively, with later sections assuming understanding of earlier material. Start from the beginning and work through each chapter methodically.
Set a realistic study schedule—perhaps one section per week—and stick to it. Consistency is more valuable than intensity when it comes to retaining fiqh knowledge.
Take Notes and Create Summaries
Active engagement with the text dramatically improves retention. As you read, take notes on key points, create outlines of each section, and write summaries in your own words. This process of reformulating the information helps cement it in your memory.
Consider creating flashcards for important definitions, conditions, and pillars. Regular review of these cards will help you internalize the material.
Apply What You Learn
The ultimate purpose of studying fiqh is to improve your practice of Islam. As you learn each section, immediately apply it to your worship. If you discover you've been performing wudu incorrectly, correct it. If you learn about sunnah prayers you weren't aware of, begin incorporating them.
This practical application transforms theoretical knowledge into lived reality, making your study of Ascent to Felicity a means of drawing closer to Allah.
Reference It Regularly
Even after completing your initial study, keep Ascent to Felicity as a reference book. When questions arise about specific rulings, consult it. When teaching others, use it as a source. When preparing for Ramadan or hajj, review the relevant sections.
A well-used fiqh book, with notes in the margins and bookmarks on frequently referenced pages, is a sign of a serious student of knowledge.
Comparison with Similar Hanafi Fiqh Texts
Ascent to Felicity vs. Nur al-Idah
Nur al-Idah (The Light of Clarification) was written by the same author as a more concise introduction to Hanafi fiqh. It presents the essential rulings in brief, making it ideal for beginners or quick reference.
Ascent to Felicity, on the other hand, is al-Shurunbulali's own commentary on Nur al-Idah, expanding the discussions with detailed explanations, evidence, and scholarly nuances. Think of Nur al-Idah as the outline and Ascent to Felicity as the full course.
Many students begin with Nur al-Idah to grasp the basic rulings, then progress to Ascent to Felicity for deeper understanding. Both books complement each other beautifully.
Ascent to Felicity vs. Al-Hidayah
Al-Hidayah by Burhan al-Din al-Marghinani is one of the most comprehensive Hanafi fiqh texts ever written. It's an advanced work that discusses multiple opinions within the Hanafi school, presents detailed legal reasoning, and engages with other madhabs.
While Al-Hidayah is essential for advanced students and scholars, it can be overwhelming for intermediate learners. Ascent to Felicity strikes a better balance for most students—more detailed than beginner texts but more accessible than advanced works like Al-Hidayah.
Ascent to Felicity vs. Mukhtasar al-Quduri
Mukhtasar al-Quduri is another classical Hanafi text known for its conciseness and precision. It presents rulings without extensive explanation, making it excellent for memorization and quick reference.
Ascent to Felicity provides more explanation and context than Mukhtasar al-Quduri, making it more suitable for students who want to understand not just what the rulings are but why. However, both texts are valuable, and many students study both.
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The English translation available through ilmStore.in has been prepared by qualified scholars who understand both classical Arabic and contemporary English. The translation maintains fidelity to the original text while making it accessible to modern readers. Footnotes provide additional clarification where needed, and technical terms are explained for those new to Islamic studies.
Quality matters when it comes to religious texts. Poorly translated or unauthorized editions can contain errors that lead to misunderstanding of Islamic rulings. By choosing the ilmStore.in edition, you're ensuring you're learning from an accurate, reliable source.
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For students in India and neighboring countries, purchasing from ilmStore.in also means supporting a local Islamic publisher committed to making authentic Islamic knowledge accessible. The pricing is set in INR, making it affordable for students and scholars across the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ascent to Felicity
Is Ascent to Felicity suitable for beginners in Islamic studies?
Ascent to Felicity is generally considered an intermediate-level text. If you're completely new to Islamic studies, you might want to start with a more basic introduction to fiqh or begin with Nur al-Idah by the same author. However, motivated beginners who are willing to study carefully and perhaps seek guidance from a teacher can certainly benefit from this book. The English translation makes it more accessible than studying the Arabic original would be for non-Arabic speakers.
Do I need to follow the Hanafi madhab to benefit from this book?
While Ascent to Felicity presents rulings according to the Hanafi school of jurisprudence, Muslims from any madhab can benefit from studying it. Understanding different schools of thought enriches your knowledge of Islamic law and helps you appreciate the diversity of valid scholarly opinions. That said, if you follow a different madhab for your personal practice, you should consult texts from your own school for rulings you'll apply in your worship. Many scholars recommend studying your own madhab in depth while having familiarity with others.
How long does it take to complete studying Ascent to Felicity?
This depends on your study pace and whether you're studying independently or with a teacher. In traditional madrasas, students typically spend 6-12 months studying this text with daily classes. Independent learners might take 1-2 years, studying a few hours per week. The key is consistency rather than speed. It's better to study slowly and retain the knowledge than to rush through without proper understanding.
Can I use this book to issue fatwas or answer people's fiqh questions?
Simply reading Ascent to Felicity does not qualify someone to issue religious rulings (fatwas). Issuing fatwas requires extensive training under qualified scholars, deep knowledge of Islamic sciences beyond just fiqh, and the ability to apply rulings to specific contexts. Use this book to improve your own practice and understanding, but refer complex questions to qualified muftis and scholars. If someone asks you a question, you can share what you've learned from the book while making clear you're conveying the text's position, not issuing a personal ruling.
Is there a difference between the Arabic original and the English translation?
Any translation involves some interpretation, as languages don't map perfectly onto each other. The English translation of Ascent to Felicity strives to convey the meaning of the original Arabic as accurately as possible. For serious students, learning Arabic and eventually reading the original is ideal. However, the English translation is reliable for understanding the rulings and benefiting from the book's knowledge. The translators have included notes where additional clarification is needed.
Which edition or translation of Ascent to Felicity is most reliable?
The edition available through ilmStore.in is the authorized version for the Indian subcontinent, ensuring authenticity and quality. When purchasing Islamic texts, always buy from reputable publishers and sellers. ilmStore.in's status as the exclusive authorized publisher in India, Bangladesh, Maldives, and Sri Lanka guarantees you're receiving a properly translated and vetted edition.
Can women study Ascent to Felicity, or is it only for men?
Absolutely, women should study Ascent to Felicity! Islamic knowledge is obligatory for all Muslims, male and female. The book covers rulings that apply to both men and women, and includes specific sections addressing women's issues such as menstruation, post-natal bleeding, and related matters. Many female Islamic scholars have mastered this text and teach it to others. Seeking knowledge is encouraged for all Muslims regardless of gender.
What other books should I study alongside Ascent to Felicity?
To complement your fiqh studies, consider studying hadith collections (like Riyadh al-Salihin), tafsir (Quran commentary), and books on Islamic spirituality and character. For fiqh specifically, you might study Nur al-Idah first as preparation, then move to Ascent to Felicity, and eventually progress to more advanced texts like Al-Hidayah. A balanced Islamic education includes knowledge from multiple disciplines, not just fiqh.
Final Thoughts: Your Journey to Islamic Knowledge Starts Here
Ascent to Felicity is more than just a book—it's a comprehensive guide to living Islam authentically and correctly. In a world where Muslims face constant questions about how to practice their faith, this classical text provides reliable, evidence-based answers rooted in centuries of Islamic scholarship.
The title itself, "Ascent to Felicity," captures the book's purpose beautifully. True happiness and success (felicity) come from knowing and practicing Islam correctly. This book provides the knowledge needed for that ascent, guiding you step by step through the essential rulings that govern Muslim life.
Whether you're a student formally studying Islamic sciences, an imam serving your community, or simply a Muslim who wants to deepen your understanding and improve your practice, Ascent to Felicity deserves a place in your library. Its comprehensive coverage, clear explanations, and evidence-based methodology make it an invaluable resource you'll reference throughout your life.
The investment you make in studying this book will pay dividends in every prayer you perform, every fast you keep, and every act of worship you undertake. Knowledge of fiqh transforms worship from mere habit into conscious, intentional acts of devotion performed with understanding and precision.
Don't delay in beginning your journey with this transformative text. The knowledge contained in Ascent to Felicity has guided Muslims for over 350 years, and it's ready to guide you too.
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May Allah grant us beneficial knowledge and the ability to act upon it. Ameen.