What is the difference between the absolute (Mutlaq) and the general (Amm)?
Linguistically, "general" (al-umūm) means comprehensiveness. Technically, it is a word that encompasses everything suitable for it, according to a single designation. Examples of its forms include a singular noun defined by the definite article "al" for comprehensiveness, and an indefinite noun (nakirah) in a negative context.
As for "absolute" (al-mutlaq), linguistically it means release and freedom from all restriction. Technically, it refers to that which indicates a reality without restriction. An example of its forms is an indefinite noun (nakirah) in an imperative context.
The difference between them lies in the fact that the general encompasses all of its individual instances, whereas the absolute encompasses only an unspecified individual instance. Exception is permissible from the general, unlike the absolute. Furthermore, an commanded general cannot be achieved except by performing all of its individual instances, whereas an commanded absolute does not necessitate the complete inclusion of all its individual instances.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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