In this article
Fiqh is the knowledge of how to practise Islam correctly: how to purify yourself, pray, fast, give zakah and deal with others according to the Quran and Sunnah. For many Muslims, learning Fiqh is the step that turns good intentions into confident, correct worship. This guide explains what Fiqh is, what you study first and how to learn Fiqh online.
What is Fiqh?
The Arabic word fiqh means deep understanding. As a field of study it refers to the practical rulings of Islam, derived by scholars from the Quran, the Sunnah, the consensus of scholars and sound reasoning. Fiqh answers questions such as: What breaks wudu? What do I do if I miss a prayer? Who must pay zakah?
The five categories of rulings
Scholars describe every action in one of five categories:
- Obligatory (fard or wajib): rewarded when done and sinful to leave, such as the five daily prayers.
- Recommended (mustahabb or sunnah): rewarded when done, not sinful to leave, such as extra voluntary prayers.
- Permissible (mubah): neither rewarded nor punished in itself, such as most everyday choices.
- Disliked (makruh): better avoided, but not sinful.
- Forbidden (haram): sinful to do and rewarded when avoided for the sake of Allah.
The four schools of thought
Over the centuries, four major Sunni schools of Fiqh became widely followed: the Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i and Hanbali schools. They agree on the foundations and differ on some details, each with its own evidence and method. A good teacher explains the agreed-upon basics clearly and can follow the school your family prefers, without confusing a beginner with every difference of opinion.
What beginners study first
- Purification (taharah): wudu, ghusl, tayammum and what breaks them.
- Prayer (salah): conditions, pillars and step-by-step method. See our beginner’s prayer guide.
- Fasting (sawm): who must fast, what breaks the fast and making up missed days. See fasting basics.
- Zakah: who must pay, on what wealth and to whom it is given.
- Hajj and Umrah: the main rites and their order.
Later stages can cover family matters, food and drink, business dealings and other areas of daily life.
Why study Fiqh with a teacher
Reading rulings on the internet often leads to confusion, because answers mix different schools and situations. A teacher explains rulings in order, shows the reasons behind them, and answers your personal questions. One-to-one classes give you time to ask about the situations you actually face.
How Fiqh classes work at Elbayan Academy
Fiqh is part of our Islamic studies programs. Each class is live and one-to-one with a certified teacher: a short review, a new topic explained with examples, practical application (for example practising the movements of prayer) and time for questions. You receive monthly progress reports, and WhatsApp support is available 24/7.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need Arabic to learn Fiqh?
No. Lessons can be taught in English, with key Arabic terms explained. Learning some Arabic later helps you go deeper.
Can children study Fiqh?
Yes, starting with practical topics such as wudu and prayer, taught through demonstration and practice.
How do I start?
Book a free trial class or take the Find Your Course quiz. Classes cost $5 per 30-minute class.
