The Theory of Obedience to a Tyrant in Sunni Political Fiqh

The theory of obedience to a tyrant has a great impact on the political and social developments of societies, for the rejection or acceptance of the theory in question can have different consequences for the changes occurring in a society. Sunni political fiqh considers it essential to obey a tyrant ruler. Although there are some Sunni juristconsults who oppose the idea of obedience to a tyrant ruler, this theory, in a way or other, has taken precedence over the others in the course of time. This idea has become a great hindrance for the formation of revolutions and political campaigns in the Sunni communities. Although some movements and uprisings emerged in Sunni Muslim communities, these movements have not rested on the jurisprudential principles of Sunnism. The article seeks to cast light on the views and opinions of the faqihs as well as their arguments, exploring the historical roots of the theory and its related subjects.