Sources of Muslim Law
SOURCES OF MUSLIM LAW
Muslim Law is a religious law and it is applicable to a person, who is Muslim either by birth or by proselytization. However, Islamic law is based on man’s duties or obligations rather than on his rights. Islamic law is a branch of Muslim theology, giving practical expression to the faith, which lays down how a Muslim should conduct in accordance with his religion, both towards god and towards other men. According to prophet Mohammad, the Muslim law is commandment of God and the sovereigns in the Muslim states and it is his (Muslim’s) duty to follow it literally.
Nevertheless, if we give a few moments over the word Islam – it means ‘total surrender of oneself to God’, and its follower i.e. Muslim – means, ‘who submitted himself to God.’
Sources
1. Quran : The sacred book of Muslims meaning “recitation” contains the word of God, being the inspired utterances of the prophet Mohammad. It is basically lectures of prophet Mohammad which had been written by his disciples, during his life time (570 – 632) itself. Quran has 114 chapter (Suras), under which there are 6236 versus (ayat).
However, it is a moral guideline and portrays Islamic principles and values.
2. Sunna : It is a paragon of prophet’s conduct means prophet had decided meaning question from case to case and the collection of his words and deeds captured in writing which is known as Sunna or traditions. Subsequently, the Sunna or traditions which is nothing other than rules of law, gave the platform for the development of Islam.
3. Ijma : Part of Islamic law developed through consensus of opinions of scholars over legal issues.
4. Qiya : Simply, it is the procedure of analogical deductions from the first three (given above).
5. Customs (Urf) : Do not keep much meaning, but of course, an important source of law.
Besides, there are some terminologies and essential practices define Muslim law viz. …
1. Fiqh (Jurisprudence) ‘Intelligence’, it is the knowledge of one’s rights and obligations derived from the Quran or the Sunna of the prophet or consensus of opinion of scholars or analogical deductions.
2. Fiqih : Simply means ‘jurist’, who has the prowess of independent judgment.
3. Shariat : The Cannon law of Islam, contains infallible guide to ethics and deals fundamental doctrine of duties and obligations .
Essential Practices :
1. Shahadah : is fundamental creed of Islam.
2. Salah : is a ritual prayer.
3. Zakat : is religious obligations to give alms, one who afford it.
4. Sawn : is the practices of fasting during the month of Ramjan.
5. Hajj : every Muslim who can afford should visit the city of Mecca at least once in life.
Moreover, Muslim law is a religious law which deals all aspects of life i.e. from daily conduct and behaviours of one’s life to State matters such as governance, foreign relations etc.
