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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Islamic Correspondence Course (book 3) Lesson 24 : More About the Shari‘a The purpose of human life in this world is to successfully go through the trials and tribulations in order to achieve salvation in the hereafter. In the hereafter, life will have no end. God did not leave us without any means of guidance. He sent prophets, messengers and books to guide mankind towards the right path.

The last prophet and messenger was the Prophet of Islam, and the final revelation was the Qur’an. Islam is the ultimate means of guidance for mankind through the tests and trials of this world. The Prophet was sent “to convey the revelation; to purify spiritually and to teach the Qur’an and wisdom.” Islam seeks to guide its followers by the legal system known as “shari’a”.

No aspect of our life is outside the jurisdiction of the shari’a: legal and moral, personal and social, economic and politics, all issues are directly or indirectly covered by the shari’a. In this lesson you will learn more about the Islamic laws from different perspectives. 1.

The Roots & Branches of Religion To differentiate between the matters of belief and the laws of shari’a, the Shi’a scholars have coined two interesting terms: The matter of beliefs (monotheism, justice of God, prophethood, imamat and resurrection) are described as “the Roots of Religion — Usul ad-Din” because they form the foundation of our faith. The Shi’a scholars have also coined the term “the Branches of Religion — Furu’ ad-Din” for the shari’a laws.

These terminologies actually reflect the connection between “belief and “practice”. If the roots are strong, they will generate healthy branches, green leaves, colourful flowers and delicious fruits; but if the roots are weak, the tree will be considered useless. Similarly, if a Muslim’s beliefs are strong, then it should show in the practical life of that person.

A non-practicing Muslim betrays the weakness in his religious roots which are in need of further nurturing through intellectual stimulation and spiritual guidance. The items normally listed as “the Branches of Religion” are as follows: Prayers (salat). Fasting in Ramadhan (sawm). Pilgrimage to Mecca (hajj). Tax on Wealth (zakdt). Tax on Money (khums). Spiritual as well as Physical Struggle for sake of Allah (jihad). Promoting good in the family and society (amr bil ma’ruf).

Preventing evil in the family and society (nahi ‘anil munkar).