Shariah, a term often misunderstood and misrepresented, holds significant importance in the lives of Muslims worldwide. While many Muslim-majority countries incorporate laws that reference Shariah, there exists a diverse range of interpretations and applications. It is crucial to distinguish between Shariah, the divine guidance provided to Muslims, and Islamic law, which is derived from interpretations of Shariah. In this blog, we will explore the essence of Shariah, its sources, and shed light on the intricacies involved in its interpretation and application.
Shariah, derived from the Arabic term meaning “the correct path,” encompasses the principles and values that Muslims follow to lead moral lives and cultivate a closer relationship with God. It finds its foundations in two main sources: the Qur’an, considered the direct word of God, and the Sunnah, which includes thousands of sayings and practices attributed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. The traditions and narratives in these sources bear similarities to those found in Judaism and Christianity, the other major Abrahamic religions. Additionally, Shia Muslims also include the words and deeds of the Prophet’s family in their understanding of the Sunnah. However, the interpretive tradition of Muslim scholars primarily comprises the body of Shariah.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, revered as the epitome of piety, serves as a model for all Muslims to emulate. After his passing in the seventh century, the process of interpreting Shariah, known as fiqh, evolved over centuries as the Islamic empire expanded beyond Makkah and Madina. Fiqh requires a profound knowledge of the Qur’an and Sunnah, fluency in Arabic, and expertise in legal theory. However, standardisation regarding the required level of competency and length of study necessary to qualify as a jurist is yet to be achieved in modern Islamic seminaries.
Furthermore, it is important to note that interpretations of Shariah can vary significantly depending on the individual scholar or authority involved. As Khaled Abou El Fadl, a Muslim jurist and law professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, states, “On any legal issue, there are ten different opinions.” This diversity of thought reflects the complexity and adaptability of Shariah in different contexts. Islamic law, which derives from these interpretations, is subject to variation across countries, influenced by local customs, and evolves over time.
Shariah also serves as the foundation for issuing legal opinions called fatwas. These fatwas are issued by Muslim scholars in response to queries from individuals or governments seeking guidance on specific matters. In Sunni Islam, fatwas are considered advisory, allowing individuals to make their own decisions based on personal understanding. Conversely, in Shia Islam, adherents are obligated to follow the fatwas of the religious leader they have chosen.
In conclusion, Shariah represents the divine guidance that Muslims follow to lead morally upright lives and strengthen their connection with God. It draws from the Qur’an and the Sunnah, interpreted by scholars through a complex process known as fiqh. While Shariah is often misunderstood and misconstrued, it is crucial to recognise the diversity of interpretations within the Muslim world. The evolution of Islamic law, influenced by local customs and varying over time, further highlights the dynamic nature of Shariah. By understanding the complexities and nuances of Shariah, we can foster greater intercultural dialogue and appreciation for the diverse interpretations that shape the lives of Muslims worldwide.