MEI

A Review of Uṣūliyyīn’ s Legal Theory on Interpretation of Hukm-e Shariah

Dr Farhana Mehmood 03325422224 — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Legal theorists assert that hukmshar'i is a message from Allah, the Exalted, referring to the deeds of the subjects in the form of a demand, an option, or a statement.A statement outlining the demand communication option, the commission's obligation to bind (ijab), the non-binding recommendation (nadb), Demand Prohibition onforbidding or Binding (tahrim),Option Inaction and inaction Permissibility (ibadah), Omission Non-binding Objectivity (karaha),Declaration Obstacle (mani) Reason (sabab) Status (shart).According to Muslim theologians,ḥukm can be described as the communication of Allah s.w.t concerning the conduct of the competent persons by way of command, option, or declaration” in terms of terminology. Muslim jurists (fuqahā), is also conduct the same way to defining the hukm."

Uṣūliyyīn interpreted the ḥukm sharaʿī, or the text itself; in contrast, fuqahā views it as the necessity, or what is understood from it, such as the duty to fulfil the contracts.Fuqahāare experts in shari'ah, which is a system of moral principles that govern and obligate Muslims. Conversely, uṣūliyyīn, as the title implies as well, are focused on the rationale behind why and how a set of standards binds and regulates.

تقلیدِ شخصی: اسباب، اختلاف اور راہِ اعتدال کا تعین

Usama Hashimi — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The research analyzed the differences among the Muslim Jurists regarding the Specific Imitation (al-Taqlīd al-Shakhsī) and presented a balanced view thereof. Initially the research has identified four main reasons of transformation of the Muslim society from first Diligence (Ijtihād) to Absolute Imitation (al-Taqlīd al-Mutlaq) and then to the Specific Imitation (al-Taqlīd al-Shakhsī). These reasons include: (i) Lack of coherence in judicial process, (ii) Creation of al-Fiqh al-Taqdiri, (iii) Unnecessary and prolonged discussions and differences among the Jurists, and (iv) Degradation of intellectual level in later generations of Muslim Jurists. In the context of permissibility of Imitation, the research has identified two main areas: Imitation in Definite (Qat’i) Aḥkām as well as in Probable (Zanni) injunctions. In Qat’i Aḥkām, the scholars are divided into three group with respect to opinion: (i) Imitation is obligatory, (ii) Imitation is allowed without obligation, and, (iii) Imitation is prohibited. Similarly, in Zanni Aḥkām, the opinion of the Muslim Jurists is divided into four categories: (i) Specific Imitation is obligatory, (ii) It is allowed without obligation, (iii) Specific Imitation is allowed only in case of four traditional schools of jurisprudence (namely Ḥanafī, Mālikī, Shāfiʿī and Hanbalī), and (iv) Specific Imitation is prohibited. After a thorough analysis of the Juristic opinions in the Definite and Probable injunctions, the research has concluded that the matter of Specific Imitation changes from situation to situation which can be summarized as: (i) For collective matters, it is necessary to follow the Specific Imitation, (ii) For general public, which is usually unfamiliar with underlying reasoning and logic, it is recommended to follow the Specific Imitation, and (iii) For a person who is familiar with underlying reasoning and logic of Jurisprudential problems, it is appropriate to follow Diligence instead of Specific Imitation.

Keywords: Fiqh, Jurisprudence, Taqlīd, al-Shakhsī, Imitation, Diligence, Ijtihād.

The Re-Mapping the Self: An Islamic Conceptualization of Self-Awareness as the Foundation of Emotional Intelligence

Inayat ul Haq, Dr. Jawad Haseeb — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

1. Abstract

Self-awareness is a central construct in Emotional Intelligence (EI); however, prevailing psychological models often conceptualize it within a secular and material framework that limits the understanding of the human self. This article examines self-awareness exclusively through the lens of Islamic teachings, drawing upon the Qur’an and Sunnah. Using a qualitative and conceptual methodology, the study explores Fiqh al-Nafs (the jurisprudence of the self) as a foundational framework for understanding emotional awareness and regulation in Islam. The Islamic model views the human being as a holistic entity comprising the nafs, qalb, ʿaql, and rūḥ, each playing a distinct role in emotional perception, moral discernment, and spiritual accountability. The study argues that self-awareness in Islam is not merely introspective but ethical and transformative, aiming at tazkiyah al-nafs (purification of the self) and alignment with divine guidance. Emotional intelligence, therefore, is oriented toward moral excellence (ihsān) and success in the Hereafter rather than solely worldly effectiveness. This article provides a theoretical foundation for assessing self-awareness related to EI among Muslim undergraduate students and contributes to the development of an Islamically grounded emotional intelligence paradigm.

سرقہ و قطعِ ید کیس کے فیصلہ میں وفاقی شرعی عدالت کے دلائل کا تجزیاتی مطالعہ

Abdul Majeed Abdul Majeed, Dr. Humayun Abbas — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This research article presents a critical legal analysis of the Federal Shariat Court’s judgment regarding the constitutional challenge to Sections 9 (1, 2, 3) and 10 of the Offence against Property (Enforcement of Hudood) Ordinance, 1979. The petitioner contended that these sections, which outline exceptions to the punishment of amputation (Qat-i-Yad) and propose alternative penalties like imprisonment, contradict the absolute injunctions of the Quran. The study highlights several methodological inconsistencies in the Court's reasoning. This paper asserts that the FSC’s findings regarding the exceptions in Section 10 lack a rigorous direct nexus with the Nass (text) and diverge from the consensus of classical jurists (Jamhur), necessitating a judicial review of the interpretive framework used in Hudood cases.

قتل بنوقریظہ ! ابن اسحاق کی روایت پر تنقید کاتحلیلی جائزہ

Muhammad Sufyan Atta; Dr. Ashfaq Ahmed — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract

The article critically examines the narrative of Ibn Ishaq regarding the execution of Banu Qurayzah in 5 AH, which describes the killing of their adult males in trenches after the siege of the Battle of the Trench. The author addresses modern doubts raised by scholars such as Walid Arafat, Sadik Kuralay, Noor al-Din Abu Lahyah, and others who question the historicity, scale, and ethics of the event. The core dispute centers on the number of those killed. While Ibn Ishaq reports 600–900, hadith sources in Ahmad, Tirmidhi, Nasa’i, and Ibn Hibban record 400. The article shows that many classical scholars—including Ibn Kathir, Dhahabi, Ibn Abd al-Barr, and Safi al-Rahman Mubarakpuri—either preferred Ibn Ishaq’s figure or reconciled both by suggesting 400 were actual combatants while 600–900 included supporters. Thus the hadith reports do not contradict the maghazi accounts. Other objections are analyzed: 1) The absence of the number in the Qur’an is not a criterion for hadith rejection, as hadith itself is an independent source of legislation. 2) The claim that only individual criminals should be punished is answered by noting that Banu Qurayzah collectively breached their treaty with the Prophet ﷺ on multiple occasions, which according to jurists constitutes collective breach of covenant. 3) The Qur’anic verse “either grace or ransom” does not preclude execution; jurists hold that the Imam may choose execution, ransom, enslavement, or pardon based on public interest. 4) The different treatment of Banu Qaynuqa and Banu Nadir does not invalidate the Qurayzah case, since each instance involved distinct violations and political contexts, yet all followed the same principle of breach of treaty carrying capital punishment. The study concludes that Ibn Ishaq’s report is accepted by the majority of classical historians and is consistent with Islamic legal principles

Keywords: Banu Qurayzah, Ibn Ishaq, Ghazwa Khandaq, Treaty Violation, Casualty Count, Sa‘d ibn Mu‘adh , Hadith Sources, Maghazi, Islamic Law, Prisoners of War

Democracy in Conceptual Crisis: A Genealogical Study of a Definitional Failure

Dr. Mustafeez Ahmad — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This paper qualitatively examines the conceptual and definitional chaos of the existing popular democracy. The existing model of liberal democracy is assumed to be originated from the ancient Greek political system. Having its meaning and spirit of people’s rule, it has replaced the old autocratic monarchy. The investigation revolves around the basic question, whether modern representative democracy stands true to its real concept, or is the only manifestation of mistranslation of the narrative of ‘people’s rule’. An in-depth analysis of the fact shows that real democracy has not taken its place; it remains a goal to be achieved, and a dream to be realized. No doubt that some achievements of modern democratic theory and practice have blessed the European, but still the Third World remains in a phase of political chaos. The fact behind the fiction seems to be a failure of definition and addition of misleading concepts about democracy. The confusion is about the clear-cut definition of democracy, that has aggravated the situation to the extent that the concept of general will remains technically impossible to be realized. The present study, employing a qualitative, genealogical-conceptual method traces the contemporary practical crisis of democracy to a documented chain of mistranslations running from the Greek demos-kratos through William of Moerbeke’s Latin democratia to the modern electoral state.

چیونٹی کی زندگی: قرآن، حدیث اور جدید سائنس کی روشنی میں ایک تحقیقی جائزہ

haleema Fazli Raheem — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This research paper presents a com”rehe’sive study of the ant (Al-Naml) in the light of the Qur’an, ”adith, and modern scientific findings. It explores the creation, structure, behavior, and highly organized social system of ants from multiple academic perspectives. The study highlights the incident mentioned in Surah Al-Naml, where Prophet Solomon (peace be upon him) understands the speech of an ant, demon’trating its awareness and collective intelligence. In addition, the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (p”ace be upon him) are examined to shed light on the ethical treatment of ants, the prohibition of killing them without necessity, and their role as creatures engaged In the remembrance of Allah.

Furthermore, the paper analyzes sc”enti’Ic aspects such as the biological classification of ants, their communication methods (including pheromones, movements, and vibrations), and their remarkable strength, discipline, and cooperative behavior. The primary aim of this research Is to derive moral, social, and organizational lessons from the life of ants, Including discipline, mutual care, leadership, hard work, and collective welfare.

The study concludes that despite being a tiny creature, the ant represents an exemplary mo”el of a well-organized society, offering valuable guidance for improving both individual and collective human life

مسلمان خواتین کی فطری ذمہ داریوں پر فیمنسٹ تھیولوجسٹ آمنہ ودود کے اشکالات کا نصوص شرعیہ کی روشنی میں تنقیدی جائزہ

Dr Maryam Noreen Maryam Noreen, Mufti Waseem Akram — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

In Islamic thought, the relationship between men and women and the determination of their responsibilities are established through divine revelation within a balanced and natural framework. This system aims to preserve the purpose of human creation, ensure moral development, and maintain social stability. Women’s roles, therefore, are understood not as limitations but as a divinely guided division of responsibilities that sustains societal harmony.

In modern feminist theology, this framework has been critically examined, particularly in the works of Amina Wadud. Her approach to the Qur’an is based on a specific notion of gender equality, leading to reinterpretations of certain scriptural texts and traditional understandings. This raises important intellectual questions regarding women’s natural roles, as such interpretations often shift from classical exegesis, principles of Islamic jurisprudence, and established scholarly consensus toward more interpretive readings.

The Qur’anic and Prophetic discourse recognizes women as dignified individuals with a defined role in family structure, social stability, and moral upbringing. A critical analysis of these discussions, grounded in Islamic texts and classical interpretive principles, demonstrates that gender-based responsibilities are not merely social constructs but part of a divinely ordained system ensuring balance in human life.

قواعدِ شریعت، الیکٹرانک معاہدات قبولیت، مجلس عقد اور گواہی کے معاصر اطلاقات

Hafiz Haroon Ahmad, Saeed Ahmad Saeedi — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract:

This article aims to present an analysis of the modern applications of electronic contracts in the light of Islamic Sharia, with special reference to juristic (fiqh) principles. The primary objective is to clarify the relevant issues, particularly in the contemporary context of the session of contract (majlis al-aqd), acceptance and testimony. This study explains that the fundamental principles of Islamic law are as follows: every action is judged according to its purpose; in contracts, real consideration is given to intentions and meanings rather than merely to words and outward expressions; and neither should harm be inflicted nor should harm be reciprocated. In the digital age, these fundamental principles remain effective in their original form and can be applied to modern circumstances as well. The study clarifies that acceptance conducted through online platforms, email and digital signatures can be considered legally valid from a juristic (Islamic) perspective, provided that the consent of both parties is clearly established and there is no ambiguity in the offer and acceptance. Likewise, the concept of Majlis al-Aqd (the session of contract) is understood not in terms of physical or temporal unity, but rather on the principle of effective communication, under which a virtual session may also be regarded as a valid Shar’I session. In the domain of testimony, digital records and electronic evidence are regarded, in the context of contemporary juristic discourse, as supportive forms of proof. Consequently, this research emphasizes that the flexible and principle-based structure of Islamic law is not in any way in conflict with modern technology; rather, with proper juristic understanding, electronic contracts can be effectively incorporated within the Shar’I framework, making it possible to fulfill contemporary legal and economic needs.

تاریخی مرویات میں حضرت ماریہ قبطیہ رضی اللہ عنہا پر تہمت: اصول روایت و درایت کی روشنی میں تحقیقی جائزہ

Zeeshan Ali, Muhammad Kashif Shiekh — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Lady Māriyā al-Qibṭiyya (RA), a respected consort of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), has been the subject of certain historical reports alleging impropriety. Such accusations—if taken at face value—not only challenge her personal integrity but also risk casting doubt upon the moral authority of the Prophet himself. However, these claims are not substantiated by sound Islamic sources and are widely rejected within mainstream Islamic scholarship, which upholds her dignity and honored status among the Mothers of the Believers (Ummahat al-Mu'mineen).This study aims to critically assess these claims through the methodological framework of Riwāyah (transmission analysis) and Dirāyah (content and contextual analysis). Employing a qualitative, text-based methodology grounded in the sciences of hadith, the research evaluates narrations from classical sources such as Tārīkh al-Ṭabarī, Al-Ṭabaqāt al-kubrā, and Mīzān al-iʿtidāl. The isnād (chains of transmission) were analyzed using the principles of jarḥ wa-taʿdīl, revealing that the majority of the reports are weak, disconnected, or transmitted through unreliable narrators—most notably Ṣaḥīfat Ibn ʿUmar, who has been widely criticized by hadith scholars.This study reaffirms her status as a chaste and honorable figure in early Islamic history, and highlights the importance of applying rigorous hadith criticism when assessing controversial historical claims.

سیرتِ طیبہ صلی اللہ علیہ وآلہ وسلم سے اشغالِ صوفیہ کی ہمہ گیر تشکیل کا تجزیاتی مطالعہ

Dr Maryam Noreen Maryam Noreen, Mufti Waseem Akram — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The Prophetic Seerah (Sīrah al-Nabawiyyah ﷺ) serves as a comprehensive foundation from which all major Islamic disciplines, including jurisprudence (fiqh), theology (kalām), and Sufism (taṣawwuf), derive their intellectual and practical principles. Within the Sufi tradition, the influence of the Seerah is not limited to doctrinal or ethical aspects; rather, it is deeply embedded in practical spiritual disciplines known as ashghāl.

These Sufi practices—such as remembrance of God (adhkār), meditation (murāqabah), spiritual exercises (mujāhadāt), self-accountability (muḥāsabah), spiritual presence (muḥāḍarah), and spiritual unveiling (mukāshafah)—are inspired by the life, teachings, and conduct of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Their primary objective is the purification of the soul (tazkiyah al-nafs), moral refinement, and the attainment of nearness to Allah.

This study explores how Sufi scholars have integrated the Seerah into their spiritual methodologies, shaping a structured system of inner training that benefits both individual character development and social ethics. It also raises a significant contemporary question: in an age marked by spiritual emptiness, moral decline, and materialism, how can Seerah-based Sufi practices contribute to addressing modern human challenges?

Thus, this research highlights both the classical integration of the Seerah in Sufi traditions and its continuing relevance in contemporary intellectual and spiritual discourse, offering a renewed understanding of the relationship between Prophetic guidance and Sufi practices.

علامہ ابن حجر پر علامہ سعیدی کے استدراکات: کتاب التفسیر کا اختصاصی مطالعہ

Atif Aslam Rao, Hafiz Muhammad Kashif — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study offers a critical and analytical examination of the scholarly corrections (istidrākāt) made by Allama Ghulam Rasool Saeedi on the works of Allama Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani, with particular focus on Kitab al-Tafsir. Ibn Hajar, as one of the most authoritative hadith scholars, has exercised profound influence on Qur’anic exegesis through his methodological rigor and interpretive insights. However, later scholars, including Saeedi, have revisited his views, identifying areas that require clarification, refinement, or reconsideration. The central research question of this study is: what is the nature, scope, and methodological basis of Saeedi’s corrections on Ibn Hajar’s interpretations in Kitab al-Tafsir, and to what extent are these corrections academically justified? To address this question, the study employs a qualitative, analytical, and comparative methodology, involving close textual analysis of primary sources, including Ibn Hajar’s original discussions and Saeedi’s critical observations. Relevant classical and contemporary tafsir and hadith literature are also consulted to contextualize the debate and assess the validity of differing viewpoints. The research further categorizes Saeedi’s corrections into thematic areas such as linguistic interpretation, hadith authentication, juristic implications, and contextual reasoning. The significance of this study lies in its contribution to the broader field of Qur’anic exegesis and hadith studies by highlighting the dynamic and evolving nature of Islamic scholarship. It demonstrates how later scholars engage critically yet respectfully with earlier authorities, thereby enriching the intellectual tradition. Moreover, this research provides a deeper understanding of methodological diversity within tafsir and underscores the importance of critical scholarship in preserving both authenticity and relevance in Islamic intellectual heritage.

Keywords: Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani, istidrākāt, Kitab al-Tafsir, intellectual tradition.

اقتصادی استحکام اور غربت کے خاتمے میں زکوۃ کا کردار: شرعی بنیادیں اور معاصر ضروریات

Naveed Khan — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This research explores Zakat as a fundamental pillar of Islamic social justice and a strategic tool for economic stability and poverty alleviation, moving beyond its perception as a mere ritual to address rising global economic inequality.By reviewing classical jurisprudential works alongside modern contributions from scholars like Dr. Yusuf al-Qaradawi, the study identifies a significant gap in integrating Shariah principles with modern financial technologies and institutional frameworks . It addresses critical questions regarding how Shariah foundations can mitigate modern instability and the potential of technology to transform Zakat from survival aid into productive capital . Utilizing a descriptive and analytical qualitative methodology based on primary religious sources and contemporary economic reports , the study concludes that Zakat acts as an automatic economic stabilizer that prevents wealth concentration. Transitioning to an organized, technology-based system incorporating AI and Blockchain is essential for long-term financial self-sufficiency . Consequently, it is recommended that governments digitalize Zakat systems for transparency, focus on providing productive assets and skills instead of simple cash transfers, and expand the Zakat net to include modern digital assets and stocks.