*What is Shar;ah? *Explain its relevance to Muslims

Answer Details

What is Shari'ah? Shari'ah literally means a clear path or the way leading to a source of water. In Islam it means the complete divine law and code of life revealed by Allah to guide human conduct. It is derived from two primary sources, the Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Prophet (S.A.W), and two secondary sources, ijma' (consensus of the scholars) and qiyas (analogical reasoning). Shari'ah covers a Muslim's relationship with Allah (ibadah, acts of worship) and his relationship with fellow human beings (mu'amalat, dealings), including belief, worship, morals, family life, trade, crime and government.

Relevance of the Shari'ah to Muslims:

1. Guidance to the pleasure of Allah: It shows the Muslim the lawful (halal) and the unlawful (haram), enabling him to live in obedience to Allah and attain success in this world and the Hereafter.
2. Regulation of worship: It prescribes the forms of worship such as salat, zakat, sawm and hajj, ensuring correct devotion to Allah.
3. Establishment of justice: Its laws protect life, property, honour, family and religion, and provide fair judgement in disputes and crimes.
4. Moral and spiritual development: It cultivates good character, honesty, chastity and self-discipline while forbidding vices such as lying, cheating, adultery and intoxicants.
5. Regulation of family and social life: It lays down clear rules for marriage, divorce, inheritance and the rights of parents, children and neighbours, giving order to society.
6. Economic guidance: It permits lawful trade, encourages charity, and forbids usury (riba), fraud and exploitation, promoting fair dealings.
7. Basis of good government: It provides principles of leadership, consultation (shura) and accountability for a just Islamic society.
8. Unity and identity of the Ummah: By following one law, Muslims everywhere are bound together in a single brotherhood with a common way of life.

Conclusion: The Shari'ah is the divinely revealed law that governs every aspect of a Muslim's life; its observance leads to justice, sound morals, orderly society and the pleasure of Allah.