THE FUNDAMENTALIST THOUGHT IN MAURITANIA: A READING OF ITS ORIGINS AND DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

This study addressed the history of Islamic legal thought, the stages of its development, and its emergence in the territory of Mauritania (Chinguetti). The conclusions of this research can be summarized by highlighting that the Mauritanians (Chinguettians), despite their distance from the center, the lack of demographic stability, and organizational authority, managed to participate and contribute to the Islamic heritage, sometimes even adding to it. This is evident through one of the most important, complex, and delicate fields of Islam: the science of the foundations of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh). Their contribution to valuable works and fruitful discussions revealed a maturity and deep understanding of the paths of this science, mastering its rules and exploring its depths. It is worth noting that the majority of their efforts remain neglected in manuscript collections due to the absence of printing and publication. The themes of this research also show the significant place that the pioneers of this territory have achieved among the eminent scholars of the nation and the guardians of the legal school, despite the weakness of resources and the lack of recognition.