Structurally, the Ghunya is a massive undertaking, traditionally divided into two primary sections that correspond to the dual needs of the believer: the exoteric (external) and the esoteric (internal). The first section functions as a comprehensive legal manual, specifically adhering to the Hanbali school of thought ( madhhab ). In this segment, Al-Jilani meticulously details the rulings on purification, prayer, fasting, pilgrimage, and transactions. Unlike purely legalistic texts that can become dry or overly academic, Al-Jilani’s treatment of jurisprudence is imbued with a sense of reverence. He presents the law not as a burden, but as the necessary vessel for spiritual purity. For centuries, particularly in the Hanbali tradition, the Ghunya served as a primary textbook for students of law, second only to the works of Ibn Qudamah.
17 Evolution of ''Sufism'' in the Indian Subcontinent - Al-Meezan ghunyat ut talibeen
Ghunyat-ut-Talibeen is divided into several sections, systematically covering a wide range of topics essential for Islamic studies. The book's structure is designed to facilitate a gradual and comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Some of the key areas addressed in the book include: Unlike purely legalistic texts that can become dry