THE CONCEPT OF EUTHANASIA AND THE PRINCIPLE OF MAQASIDU ASH-SHARIAH IN ISLAMIC LAW.
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Date
2024-05-02
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Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State
Abstract
Abstract.
The concept of euthanasia under Islamic law is a complex and nuanced issue that intersects with ethical, legal, and theological considerations. Life is a precious gift from Allah. no one can take it away except in extreme circumstances. Islamic jurisprudence generally prioritizes the sanctity of life and views it as a divine trust, making the deliberate ending of life a highly sensitive subject. This article explores the Islamic legal perspectives on euthanasia, emphasizing the prohibition of intentional life termination. The concept of euthanasia, when examined through the lens of Maqasidu Ash-Shariah, or the Objectives of Islamic Law, presents a multifaceted ethical and legal discourse. Maqasidu Ash-Shariah emphasizes the preservation of life, the alleviation of hardship, and the promotion of justice and human welfare. Euthanasia, as the intentional ending of a person's life, raises significant questions about its alignment with these overarching objectives. This article explores how the principles of Maqasidu Ash-Shariah intersect with the ethical considerations surrounding euthanasia. It investigates how the prohibition of euthanasia is justified by the imperative to protect life and maintain its sanctity, while also considering the potential conflicts with the principle of alleviating suffering. The discussion delves into the fundamental principles of Islamic ethics that underpin the prohibition, including the value of human life, the role of suffering, and the belief in divine wisdom and predestination. Additionally, the article examines contemporary debates and interpretations within the Muslim scholarly community regarding the application of traditional rulings to modern medical practices and dilemmas, highlighting the ongoing discourse on balancing compassion with adherence to religious principles.
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Al-Hikmah University Law Journal, Vol. 5, No. 2, 2024