Shari’a and Shari’at - Context: Faith and Practice

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Shari’a: ‘Path’ or ‘road’; In the Qur’an ‘Shar’ia’ refers to the path laid down by God for Muslims to follow.

Shari’at: A term referring to the outer beliefs and practices of a religion.

Let’s delve into the meanings of these terms:

1. Shari’a:

• The term “Shari’a” originates from Arabic and translates to “path” or “road.” In the context of the Qur’an, it specifically refers to the divine path laid down by God for Muslims to follow. This path encompasses a comprehensive system of laws, ethics, and guidelines that govern various aspects of life, including personal conduct, family matters, business transactions, and worship.

• Shari’a serves as the moral compass for Muslims, guiding their actions and decisions. It encompasses both religious and legal dimensions, emphasizing justice, compassion, and adherence to God’s will.

2. Shari’at:

• “Shari’at” is a related term that refers to the outer beliefs and practices associated with a religion. It encompasses the visible aspects of faith, including rituals, customs, and religious observances.

• In many traditions, we find many examples which stress both on the zahiri ('outer') and 'batini' ('inner') aspects of religious practices. The concepts of zahir (outer) and batin (inner) are important aspects of religious practices in many traditions, particularly those with a strong emphasis on Islamic law (sharia).The concepts of zahir (outer) and batin (inner) are crucial in many religious traditions, especially those focusing on Islamic law (sharia). Here is an explanation of these concepts and their relation to sharia:

  Zahir (Outer): This pertains to the explicit, visible elements of religious practice, including the physical actions, ceremonies, and decrees outlined in sacred texts. In Islam, for instance, the zahir elements of sharia encompass the performance of the five daily prayers, observing the fast during Ramadan, and the giving of alms (zakat). Batin (Inner): This relates to the underlying, mystical meanings and spiritual importance of religious practices. It centers on the believer's internal state, their intentions, and the nurturing of moral qualities. The batin dimension of prayer, for example, may involve a focus on communion with the divine and the attainment of inner tranquility. The Significance of Both: Numerous traditions stress the need to acknowledge both zahir and batin in religious practices. This harmony ensures: Adherence to Rules: The zahir dimension guarantees that adherents comply with the established norms and ceremonies, promoting order and self-discipline. Spiritual Enrichment: The batin dimension motivates believers to transcend mere ritualistic actions and concentrate on personal spiritual growth, enhancing their bond with the divine.

Examples: Prayer: The physical movements of prayer are significant (zahir), but equally important is the intention and focus on connecting with God (batin). Fasting: By abstaining from food and drink (zahir), believers cultivate self-discipline and empathy for those less fortunate (batin). It's important to note: The emphasis on zahir and batin can differ based on the particular tradition and its interpretation. Some traditions may prioritize the literal aspects (zahir), while others may concentrate on the spiritual elements (batin). This concept enriches the religious practice, promoting both external observance and internal development.

• In the context of Islam, Shari’at encompasses practices such as daily prayers (Salat), fasting during Ramadan (Sawm), almsgiving (Zakat), and pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj). These external expressions of faith are essential for a Muslim’s spiritual growth and connection with God.

• While Shari’a provides the overarching framework, Shari’at represents the practical implementation of religious principles in everyday life.

In summary, Shari’a represents the divine path, while Shari’at encompasses the tangible practices that allow individuals to walk that path faithfully. Both terms are integral to understanding Islamic beliefs and practices.