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Shariah -The Sharī‘ah

1. Linguistic Meaning
  • Derived from the root shin–ra–‘ayn (ش ر ع).
  • Literally means “the road to the watering place” or “the straight path to be followed.”
  • Refers to the path or way ordained by Allah.
  • Qur’ānic reference – Al-Jāthiyah 45:18:
“Then We have put you (O Muhammad s.a.w.) on a plain way (Sharī‘ah) of Our commandment. So follow it, and follow not the desires of those who know not.”


2. Technical Meaning
  • Defined by al-Qurṭubī as the canon law of Islam — all commandments of Allah to mankind.
  • Some scholars: Sharī‘ah = divine injunctions revealed to the Prophet related to law or belief.
  • Others limit it to following Allah’s commands strictly — the way of Islam (dīn).


3. Comprehensive Definition
  • Sum total of Islamic teachings and system revealed to Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.).
  • Derived from:
    • The Qur’ān (revelation).
    • The Sunnah (Prophet’s lifestyle and guidance).
  • Supported by scholars such as Abdul Karim Zaydan.


4. Nature and Purpose of Sharī‘ah
  • Encompasses all commandments of Allah — each command is a ḥukm (plural: aḥkām).
  • Purpose: Regulates all human actions.
  • Not limited to “law” in the modern sense — includes:
    • Dogmas (beliefs)
    • Legal and ethical doctrines
    • Duties and obligations
  • Represents a comprehensive system covering moral, social, and spiritual aspects.
  • Individual rights have a minor place; focus is on collective and divine obligation.
  • Emphasizes moral and religious evaluation of all aspects of life.



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