What truly set Imam Malik apart was his unwavering commitment to preserving authentic knowledge and practice. His most celebrated contribution is the Al-Muwatta, one of the earliest written compilations of Hadith and fiqh. This seminal work isn’t just a Hadith collection—it reflects the legal reasoning and societal practices of Medina, which he viewed as a living example of the Prophet’s way.

Imam Malik developed his Maliki madhhab based on four sources: the Qur’an, authentic Hadith, the consensus of the scholars (ijma‘), and the practice of the people of Medina. Unlike some other schools that leaned heavily on analogy or personal opinion, Imam Malik emphasized continuity with the traditions of the early Muslim community, making his approach deeply rooted in the Prophetic legacy.

Though he was highly respected, Imam Malik didn’t seek political favor. He famously refused to issue fatwas that would support unjust rulers. His integrity led to persecution and even physical punishment, but he remained firm. His teachings later spread across the Muslim world, and his madhhab became the leading Islamic legal tradition in North and West Africa, and parts of the Arabian Peninsula. For a deeper look at Imam Malik’s jurisprudence and Hadith methodology, visit Malik ibn Anas – Encyclopaedia Britannica.