Universal Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah and Their Modern Application: Towards Ensuring a Peaceful and Secured Environment

Abstract

Abstract

The maqāṣid theory is a popular trend in Islamic legal theories. Contemporary scholars view it as a valid method of interpreting the revealed text and as a valuable instrument for solving contemporary issues because it helps reform Islamic thought and civilization. Indeed, the idea of maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah has been widely studied and expanded by modern scholars of Islamic legal theory. Chiefly, Ibn ͑Ashur and contemporary MaqÉsid scholars renewed the scholarly discourse and ensured its proliferation and wide acceptance in legal studies. It has emerged as a new science that connects with all other legal disciplines. Thus, scholars firmly assert that the maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah constitute the most important intellectual means and methodologies for Islamic reform today. Consequently, the researchers aim to examine the modern discourse of Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah and the latest developments beyond the universal MaqÉÎid. Mainly, the researchers scrutinize the two objectives namely the preservation of the environment via the protection of life and wealth. Accordingly, this article follows the qualitative method of data collection and analysis. Among the findings of the research is that the latest developments of Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah, open the door of ijtihād widely to create ample areas for jurists to regulate the affairs of the Muslim ummah. Further, the maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah do not reflect only the objectives of Islamic law; their role goes beyond and is used to formulate basic principles and values related to global peace and human welfare. Hence, they have greatly contributed to the revival of Islamic thought and have opened a wider space for the application of Islamic law pertaining to peaceful environment.