Who specifically are included in the ruling concerning the People of the Book whose women are permissible to marry?
Chapter on What is Prohibited to Marry and Combining Between Them and Other Matters
Al-Mughni
Book of Marriage
Primary text
The People of the Book for whom this ruling applies are the adherents of the Torah and the Gospel. This includes the Jews and the Samaritans (adherents of the Torah) and the Christians (adherents of the Gospel), along with those who conform to the basis of their religion, such as the Franks and the Armenians. The correct view regarding the Sabians is that if they agree with Christians or Jews on the fundamental principles of their religion while differing on the branches, they are considered followers. If they diverge on the fundamental principles, they are not included.
Supporting text
There has been significant disagreement among the early scholars regarding the Sabians. It is reported from Ahmad that they are a sect of Christians, a position stated by Al-Shafi'i, though Al-Shafi'i also suspended judgment on them elsewhere. It is also reported from Ahmad that they observe the Sabbath, which would align them with the Jews.