What is the significance of islamic law

Advanced Search. Search Menu. Article Navigation. Close mobile search navigation Article Navigation. Volume 9. Anderson J. Oxford Academic. Google Scholar.

Cite Cite J. According to these rules, for example, one initially is to refer to a specific provision and then to a general provision dealing with a particular situation. No general provision can be interpreted to contradict a specific provision, and a specific rule will supersede a general proposition. A general provision, however, is always interpreted in the broadest manner, while a specific provision is interpreted in the narrowest manner.

Reasoning by analogy is permitted, as are applications by analogy, except where expressly prohibited. Simplicity and clear language are always preferred. Similarly, the clear spirit of certain prescriptions cannot be altered by inconsistent interpretations. A policy-oriented interpretation within the confines of the rules of jurisprudence is permissible and even recommended, as is the case with the doctrine of ijtihad progressive reasoning by analogy.

If the Imam errs it is better that he errs in favor of innocence pardon than in favor of guilt punishment. Muslim scholars do not consider Islam to be an evolving religion, but rather a religion and legal system which applies to all times. Female genital mutilation is practiced by non-Muslims as well.

Fact : In earlier centuries, celebrations of same-sex love did not flout Islamic law. Al-Shabrawi dedicated a love poem to his male student and wrote many others celebrating young men.

Congratulations on finishing this series on Understanding Islam! To test your knowledge, take our quiz based on the material in this series.

You can read all six articles in this Understanding Islam series on TheConversation. What Sharia means: 5 questions answered. Harsh punishments under Sharia are modern interpretations of an ancient tradition.

But experts say that often doesn't happen in practice. Some countries where Islamic law is applied adopt or enforce such punishments for hadd offences, and surveys have suggested attitudes of Muslims to harsh penalties for such offences vary widely. This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Watch the key moments from the Taliban's news conference. What have the Taliban said? Who are the Taliban?

Taliban: Women to have rights within Islamic law Uncertain times ahead for Afghan women. What is Sharia? Sharia is Islam's legal system. Image source, Getty Images.