The renaissance of Islamic law: constitution, economics and banking in the works of Muhammad Baqer as-Sadr

This thesis focuses on the works of Muhammad Baqer as-Sadr pertaining to Islamic law. As background, the debate between the Akhbari and the Usuli schools of thought with regards to constitutional law in the 18th century is analyzed. Sadr's constitutional model for Iran, proposed in 1979, is examined, as are further constitutional law developments in the decade following the revolution. Also illustrated are works that Sadr contributed beginning in the 1960's on Islamic banking and economics, including issues regarding riba, legal problems in Egypt, and practical banking operation strategies. Sadr's works are analyzed within the context of the greater Islamic legal renaissance.