Introduction to Shariah

COURSE TITLE: INTRODUCTION TO SHARIAH

Course Duration: Minimum 1 hour

Course Objectives

1. Understand the foundational principles and sources of Shariah.
2. Gain insight into the objectives of Shariah (Maqasid al-Shariah).
3. Explore the main branches of Shariah law and their practical applications.
4. Examine the relationship between Shariah and Islamic finance.

PART 1: INTRODUCTION TO SHARIAH (10 Minutes)

1. Definition and significance of Shariah in Islam.
2. Historical development of Shariah.
3. Misconceptions about Shariah and its role in society.

PART 2: SOURCES OF SHARIAH (10 Minutes)

1. Primary sources:
   • The Qur’an
   • The Sunnah
2. Secondary sources:
   • Ijma’ (consensus)
   • Qiyas (analogy)
   • Other methods: Istihsan (juridical preference), Maslahah (public interest).
3. Differences between various schools of thought.

PART 3: OBJECTIVES OF SHARIAH (MAQASID AL-SHARIAH) (10 Minutes)

1. Definition and importance of Maqasid al-Shariah.
2. The five primary objectives:
   • Protection of faith
   • Protection of life
   • Protection of intellect
   • Protection of lineage
   • Protection of wealth
3. Application of Maqasid in modern contexts.

PART 4: CLASSIFICATIONS AND TYPES OF RULINGS (10 Minutes)

1. Classifications of rulings:
   • Obligatory
   • Recommended
   • Permissible
   • Disliked
   • Forbidden
2. Different branches of Shariah:
   • Ibadah (worship)
   • Muamalat (transactions)
   • Hudud (penal laws)
3. Understanding Fiqh and the role of scholars in interpreting Shariah.

PART 5: SHARIAH IN ISLAMIC FINANCE (10 Minutes)

1. Principles of Shariah-compliant finance and contracts.
2. Prohibited elements:
   • Riba (interest)
   • Gharar (uncertainty)
   • Maysir (gambling)
3. Overview of Islamic finance products:
   • Murabaha
   • Musharakah
   • Ijarah

PART 6: CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN SHARIAH (10 Minutes)

1. Shariah in a globalized world:
   • Challenges and opportunities.
2. Role of Shariah in legal and ethical decision-making.
3. Case studies in modern applications of Shariah.