Islamic Law: An Introduction

The study of Islamic law delves into significant moral, ethical, and legal questions, addressing them from both theoretical and practical perspectives. However, a single resource comprehensively covering all these areas in English is rare, as scholars often have diverse interpretations of how Shariah principles should be applied to modern issues.

Islamic Law: An Introduction by Datuk Professor Dr Mohamad Akram Laldin offers a clear and thorough overview of key Islamic legal concepts, bridging the gap between traditional jurisprudence and modern-day applications. The book explores Islamic law from multiple perspectives and compares it with secular legal systems, highlighting its unique ethical and social dimensions.

Topics covered include:

• The foundational principles of Islamic law, focusing on the essence of the Shari’ah and its central role in society.
• The distinction between the Shari’ah (divinely revealed law) and figh (Islamic jurisprudence).
• The primary sources of Islamic law, i.e., the Qur’an, Sunnah, consensus (ijma’), and analogical deduction (qiyās), alongside the secondary sources including unspecified public interest (maslahah mursalah), blocking the means to an evil (sadd al-dharai), and customary practice (‘urf).
• Five key legal maxims that guide the interpretation and application of Islamic jurisprudence.
• The development of Islamic law from the time of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to the present, offering insights into its evolution and contemporary relevance.

This book simplifies complex legal principles, making them accessible to students, scholars, and professionals. It provides an in-depth understanding of the foundational concepts of Islamic law and its continuing relevance in today’s world. An indispensable resource for anyone interested in how Islamic jurisprudence addresses critical issues of morality, justice, and the purpose of human life, this work encourages an open-minded and thoughtful engagement with the Shari’ah, recognising its profound wisdom and universal guidance for all humanity.