Islamic Law

Editorial Board

November 9, 2012

The Islamic Law is called sharī‹a in Arabic. Sharī‹a means “the way.” Therefore the Muslim, submissive to God, follows a way, a disciplined path, a method of life. Sharī‹a, the way, covers the entire normative field of individual and social life. Unfortunately, the distressing usage made in certain Muslim countries of punishments instituted by sharī‹a, with virtually no care for the circumstances under which the Law is to be applied, reduces sharī‹a to a ruthless penal code. Such rigorous practices overshadow the main, central message of the law, the way: the relationship of man and his Creator, and the good work necessary during this life in order for him to perfect himself and merit eternal happiness.