Islamic Ethics: Core Ethical Teachings and Jurisprudence

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms in Islamic ethics, including sources (Quran, Hadith, Sunnah), jurisprudence (Sharia, Fiqh, Ijtihad, Qiyas, Ijma), rulings (Halal, Haram, Fard, Mandub, Makruh, Mubah), theological concepts (Tawhid, Submission, Taqwa), and core ethical virtues.

Quran

The central sacred text of Islam, believed to be the literal word of Allah and the primary source for what is obligatory, permissible, and forbidden.

Hadith

Reported sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad; secondary source of guidance in ethics and law.

Sunnah

The practices and traditions of Prophet Muhammad that Muslims strive to follow as a model for daily life.

Sharia

The divine law and ethical code guiding Muslims in all aspects of life; the overall framework for moral decisions.

Fiqh

The jurisprudence or deep understanding of Sharia; the human study and interpretation of Islamic law.

Ijtihad

Independent or personal reasoning used by a qualified scholar to interpret Sharia in new or unclear cases.

Qiyas

Analogy used to apply rulings from known texts to new situations not explicitly covered.

Ijma

Consensus of qualified Islamic scholars on a legal issue.

Fatwa

A formal legal opinion issued by a qualified Islamic jurist on a specific issue; can be binding in practice.

Ummah

The global community of Muslim believers.

Tawhid

Belief in the oneness of God; the central theological foundation of Islam.

Submission

Surrendering to the will of Allah; the ultimate aim of a Muslim’s life and actions.

Taqwa

God-consciousness or piety; striving to act in accordance with Allah’s will.

Halal

Permissible actions or things under Islamic law.

Haram

Forbidden or prohibited actions or things under Islamic law.

Fard (Wajib)

Obligatory duties; actions that Muslims are required to perform.

Mandub (Mustahabb)

Desirable or recommended actions; not obligatory but highly encouraged.

Makruh

Disliked or discouraged actions; not forbidden, but discouraged.

Mubah

Permissible or neutral actions; allowed but not specifically encouraged or discouraged.

Fitrah/Naturalness

The belief that the world and human nature are created in a designed order and should be maintained and cared for.

Humility

Modesty and respect for others; putting others before oneself.

Love of Allah

Devotion and love for God as a core motivating force in ethical decision-making.

Modesty

Behavior and dress that reflect restraint and propriety in line with Islamic ethics.

Selflessness

Putting the needs and welfare of others before one’s own interests.