Maliki refers to a school of thought within Islamic jurisprudence that is based on the teachings of Imam Malik ibn Anas, a prominent scholar from the 8th century. This school is one of the four major Sunni schools and is primarily followed in North Africa and parts of the Arabian Peninsula. It emphasizes the importance of the practices of the people of Medina as a source of law, alongside the Qur'an and Hadith. The Maliki school is known for its flexibility and adaptability to local customs, allowing for a diverse interpretation of Islamic law. It places significant weight on the consensus of scholars and the reasoning of jurists, making it distinct from other schools like Hanafi, Shafi'i, and Hanbali. This approach has contributed to its enduring influence in various regions.