Islamic law, or Sharia, is one of the most intricate legal systems in the world. Its roots lie in the 7th century, emerging with the advent of Islam and evolving across cultures and time. Today, it provides guidance for millions of Muslims globally in areas ranging from personal conduct to social justice. This post will explore the historical journey of Islamic law, its foundational schools, sources, and the significant Shariat Act of 1937.

The Advent of Islam and Development of Muslim Law

The 7th century marked a transformative era in the Arabian Peninsula with the arrival of Islam through the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. He introduced principles that guided both spiritual practices and the pursuit of social justice. As Islam expanded into areas like North Africa and parts of Asia, the call for a structured legal framework grew louder.

The Quran, regarded as the faith's sacred text, serves as the primary source of law, addressing vital matters like inheritance, marriage, and punishment. For instance, Quran 4:7 clearly delineates inheritance rights, ensuring equitable distribution of wealth among family members. Supplementing the Quran is the Hadith, the collection of Muhammad's sayings and actions, which provides context for Quranic teachings and establishes precedents for matters not explicitly covered in the Quran.

The interaction between Islamic teachings and local cultures led to diverse interpretations and practices. During the Abbasid Caliphate, cities such as Baghdad became centers for learning and legal thought, where early Islamic texts were compiled and codified. The establishment of distinct schools of thought—namely Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali—marked an evolution in understanding Sharia, reflecting the cultural and social fabrics of different regions.

Today, Sharia encompasses a wide array of laws, from personal status to criminal law. Its development has been dynamic, consistently adapting to the needs of society while upholding the principles rooted in the Quran and the Prophet’s teachings.

Schools and Sources of Islamic Law