The word Shari'ah (often spelled Sharia or Shariah) is used to refer to a set of ideas, principles and rules drawn from the Islamic holy books – the Quran and hadith – that are intended to provide guidance for the behavior of Muslims in all aspects of their lives It is often referred to as “Islamic law” and is used by Muslims worldwide to ensure that they adhere to their faith and moral obligations. In many Muslim countries, Shari'ah has been incorporated into the legal system, though the exact details of how it is applied differ from nation to nation.
In practice, Shari'ah deals with a wide range of topics and issues, from religious obligations and personal hygiene to criminal justice, marriage and divorce, inheritance, and finance. Important aspects of this system include the five pillars of Islam and the preservation of the Quranic laws. In more detail, Shari'ah generally covers the following basic principles:
1. Establishing the faith by performing acts of worship and reciting Quranic verses.
2. Maintaining personal and social justice by following clear guidelines on how people should conduct themselves with others, particularly in regards to questions of morality.
3. Ensuring fairness and responsibility by establishing standards of behavior that are consistent with the teachings of the Quran.
4. Establishing a legal system that deals with matters of public interest and provides clear guidelines for the proper functioning of society.
5. Promoting peace, both on a local and global scale, by encouraging just and equitable treatment of all people regardless of their beliefs and backgrounds.
Examples of Shari’ah in Practice
1. Zakat: One of the five pillars of Islam, Zakat is the practice of charitable giving. Shari’ah requires that all Muslims must give a portion of their wealth to charity in order to show their commitment to Allah and help those in need.
2. Halal: This refers to the rules and regulations governing what food is proper to consume. For example, certain meats are forbidden, such as pork and animals that were not slaughtered according to Islamic law.
3. Qadha: This is the practice of praying for the dead. Often times, people who have passed away may have not fulfilled their religious obligations, and it is up to living Muslims to complete those obligations on their behalf.
4. Praying: Muslims are required to pray five times a day, at specific times and in specific ways, in order to demonstrate their faith and devotion to Allah.
5. Hajj: This is the pilgrimage that all Muslims are required to make to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. It is considered a major obligation and is a very important part of Islamic tradition.
These examples demonstrate just a few of the ways in which Shari’ah is applied in everyday life. It is important to remember that Shari'ah is not simply a set of rules and regulations, but a way of life that one must follow in order to live in accordance with the teachings of Allah. It is a deeply spiritual practice, and one that can bring peace, harmony, and purpose to the lives of Muslims.