Introduction to Islamic Law (IIL 2114)

Vocabulary flashcards covering the definitions, features, scope, and key terminology of Islamic Law (Sharĩ’ah) as presented in the lecture notes.

Sharĩ’ah (Literal Arabic meaning)

To signify “to begin (to do)”, “to collect water”, “to be close to the road”, “to appear manifestly(clearly)”, “to prescribe”, “to lay down a law”, or “the road to water”.

Sharĩ’ah (Naşr’s Technical Definition)

The Divine Law by virtue of accepting which a person becomes a Muslim; it is the embodiment of the Divine Will guaranteeing a harmonious life in this world and felicity in the hereafter.

Sovereign in Islam

Allah alone, who has the right to ordain a path for the guidance of mankind.

Comprehensiveness of Sharĩ’ah

A feature indicating that the law covers all aspects of life without exception, providing guidance on private, public, spiritual, and material matters.

Al-Jannah

Paradise; the place where the righteous will be admitted after death according to the results of their deeds.

An-Nār

The Hell Fire; the place where evil-doers will be condemned after death.

Self-submission to the Law

The principle that because Sharĩ’ah covers private life beyond the power of enforcement agents, it is up to the individual to readily submit and live according to it.

‘Aqīdah

Creed; refers to the Articles of Faith including belief in Allah, Angels, Divine Scriptures, Prophets, life after Death, and Destiny.

‘Ibādat

Acts of worship; the aspect of Sharĩ’ah covering the practical Pillars of Islãm: Salāt, Zakāt, Sawm, and Hajj.

Salāt

Ritual Prayer; intended to inculcate the consciousness of Allah at all times (ghars) and encourage virtuous, self-restrained behavior.

Zakāt

Obligatory Charity; the only form of charity that can be enforced by the Law to ensure even distribution of wealth from the rich to the poor.

Sadaqah

Voluntary charity, distinct from the obligatory Zakāt.

Zakātu’l-Fitr

Charity given specifically towards the end of Ramadān.

Sawm

Fasting in the month of Ramadān; involves refraining from food, drink, and sexual intercourse during the day to share the experience of the poor.

Sahūr

The early-morning meal taken before the start of the daily fast during Ramadān.

Hajj

The Holy Pilgrimage to Makkah, expected to be performed at least once in a lifetime by every Muslim who has the means.

Iḥrām

The special uniform worn by pilgrims during Hajj to teach asceticism and universal brotherhood.

‘Arafāt

The plain where pilgrims stand together during Hajj to inculcate remembrance of the Day of Judgment.

Family in Sharĩ’ah

Regarded as the smallest Unit of society or the society in its micro form.

Khalīfat Allah

Vicegerent of Allah; a person who holds political authority as a trustee to do the divine will as stipulated in Sharĩ’ah.

Morality in Sharĩ’ah

Behavior based on the consciousness of Allah and the awareness of being responsible to Him in the hereafter.