This is an English translation of one of the most famous texts by the influential and charismatic Islamic activist, as-Sadr, who was executed by Saddam Hussein in Iraq in 1980. As-Sadr's books have made him one of the most celebrated Arab Muslim intellectuals of modern times.;This text is used throughout the Sunni and Shi'a world by students of Islamic jurisprudence because of its succinctness and intellectual vigour. Mottahedeh's translation is accompanied by a detailed introduction which explains and places in context as-Sadr's views.;Representing an attempt to relate a large body of Islamic law to scripture, this translation should be of great interest to students of scripture, hermeneutics and law.