An Analysis of the Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah Reflected in the Fatāwā

ڈیرہ غازی خان میں دیے گئے فتاویٰ میں مذکور مقاصدِ شرعیہ کا جائزہ

Abstract

Fatwās in Islamic jurisprudence function not only as legal opinions but also as practical expressions of the higher objectives of the Sharīʿah, known as Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah. These objectives seek to preserve religion, life, intellect, lineage, and property, thereby ensuring human welfare in both spiritual and social dimensions. This study critically examines selected fatwās issued in Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan, through the analytical framework of Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah in order to evaluate their conformity with the overarching aims of Islamic law. Employing a qualitative analytical methodology, the research analyzes fatwās related to religious practices, family and tribal disputes, financial matters, and contemporary social issues. The findings reveal that, in general, the fatwās under review uphold the core objectives of the Sharīʿah, particularly the protection of religion and life. However, certain rulings demonstrate limited engagement with contemporary social, psychological, and economic realities, indicating the need for a more comprehensive application of Maqāṣid-oriented reasoning. The study concludes that the systematic incorporation of Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah into local fatwā practices can enhance their relevance, effectiveness, and responsiveness to modern societal challenges. Such an approach would contribute to a more balanced, just, and context-sensitive application of Islamic legal guidance, aligning traditional jurisprudence with contemporary needs.