AbdulRehman Foundation

Islamic law, also known as Sharia, is a legal and moral framework derived from the religious teachings of Islam, primarily from the Quran (the holy book of Islam) and the Hadith (the recorded sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad). Sharia encompasses a wide range of guidelines and principles that govern various aspects of personal, social, and political life for Muslims.Nature of Sharia:1. Divine Origin: Muslims believe that Sharia is a divine law given by Allah (God) and is considered immutable and eternal. It is seen as a comprehensive system encompassing both religious and secular matters.2. Source of Guidance: The primary sources of Sharia are the Quran and the Hadith. Scholars use methods of interpretation (known as fiqh) to derive legal rulings and principles from these sources.3. Comprehensive Scope: Sharia covers various aspects of life, including acts of worship, personal ethics, family matters, criminal law, economic transactions, inheritance, and governance. It provides guidance on how Muslims should live their lives in accordance with Islamic principles.4. Flexibility and Adaptability: Sharia is not a fixed legal code but rather a dynamic system that allows for interpretation and adaptation to different times and contexts. Legal scholars, known as jurists or fuqaha, employ reasoning and consensus to apply Sharia principles to new situations.Significance of Sharia:1. Religious Foundation: Sharia holds deep religious significance for Muslims. It provides them with a framework to live a pious life, aligning their actions with their faith. Sharia is seen as the pathway to achieving spiritual growth and attaining closeness to Allah.2. Moral and Ethical Guidance: Sharia sets moral and ethical standards for Muslims, emphasizing virtues such as justice, compassion, honesty, and fairness. It provides guidance on personal conduct, social interactions, and the pursuit of a just society.3. Legal System: Sharia serves as the basis for Islamic legal systems in many Muslim-majority countries. It provides a legal framework for resolving disputes, enforcing contracts, and administering justice. In some jurisdictions, Sharia courts operate alongside civil courts to handle matters related to personal status, family law, and inheritance.4. Preserving Social Cohesion: Sharia promotes social cohesion by providing guidelines for personal relationships, family structure, and societal conduct. It aims to foster harmony and maintain social order by addressing issues such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and the protection of individual rights.5. Cultural Identity: Sharia plays a significant role in shaping the cultural identity of Muslim communities worldwide. It provides a sense of unity, shared values, and a connection to their religious heritage.It is important to note that the interpretation and application of Sharia can vary among different schools of Islamic jurisprudence and different regions, leading to diverse practices and legal systems influenced by local customs, traditions, and legal frameworks.