Inquiries on the Science of the Objectives of Sharia (Part 4)
The Importance of Objectives of Sharia
The objectives of Sharia are crucial in Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh). Abu Ishaq Shatibi, may Allah have mercy on him, one of the pioneers in the field of the objectives of Sharia, states, “The objectives are the soul of actions,” which means that jurisprudence, jurists, and pious individuals without objectives are like soulless corpses. Acting and obeying Allah’s commands and decrees without considering one’s intentions is akin to a body without a soul.
Shah Waliullah Dehlavi, may Allah have mercy on him, another scholar of the objectives of Sharia, emphasized the importance of these objectives by saying, “In terms of quantity and dignity, among all Sharia sciences, in our opinion, the science of the objectives of Sharia and the secrets of religion is better and higher…; because, with the objectives of Sharia, man gains insight and understanding of Sharia rules.”
According to these statements from the esteemed Islamic scholars, the significance of the objectives of Sharia becomes clear: they serve as a guiding light for Islamic thinkers and jurists in deriving jurisprudence. The derivation of jurisprudential rulings in cases with a Sharia text, as well as in cases without one, relies on the objectives of Sharia. In this context, the ruling must be inferred as the cornerstone of Sharia rulings.
This is why, in the words of Islamic thinkers, the objectives of Sharia are regarded as the ruling of the soul for actions, and they hold the highest rank among Sharia sciences.
Furthermore, the importance of the objectives of Sharia can be summarized in the following points:
1. Knowing the objectives of Sharia is essential for every Muslim, whether they are an expert or not.
2. It increases faith in Allah and strengthens Islamic faith within the soul.
3. Understanding religious purposes serves as a shield against intellectual warfare.
4. Performing actions in accordance with these objectives is imperative.
5. Appreciating the religious objectives is highly recommended for everyone.
6. Researching worship and servitude to Allah Almighty is the fundamental goal of human creation, as understanding the objectives of religion and Sharia is considered a primary aim.
