Sharia: Understanding Islamic Law

Sharia, which means "path" in Arabic, refers to the legal framework within which the public and some private aspects of life are regulated for those living in a legal system based on Islamic principles. It is derived from the Quran, the Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad), and the consensus of Islamic scholars.

Key Components of Sharia

Five Pillars: These are the five basic acts of worship that are considered the foundation of a Muslim's faith and practice. They include the declaration of faith, prayer, fasting during Ramadan, almsgiving, and pilgrimage to Mecca.
Prohibited Acts: Sharia also outlines activities that are forbidden (haram) such as consuming alcohol, gambling, and engaging in dishonesty or usury.
Family Law: Sharia governs aspects of family life, including marriage, divorce, custody, and inheritance rights.
Criminal Law: It prescribes punishments for offenses such as theft, adultery, and apostasy, which can include flogging, stoning, or capital punishment.
Commercial Law: Sharia includes guidelines for conducting business transactions, contracts, and financial dealings, based on ethical and moral principles.

Controversies and Interpretations

Sharia has been a subject of controversy and debate, especially in non-Muslim majority countries. Critics argue that some aspects of Sharia, particularly its criminal laws, are incompatible with modern human rights standards. However, proponents emphasize the flexibility and adaptability of Sharia, and the need for contextual interpretation within diverse Muslim societies.

Studying Sharia

For students interested in understanding Sharia, it is essential to approach the topic with an open mind and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives. Reading primary Islamic sources, scholarly works on Islamic law, and engaging with experts in the field can provide a comprehensive understanding of Sharia and its role in contemporary societies.

Study Questions:

What are the sources of Sharia law?
How does Sharia impact various aspects of daily life for Muslims?
What are the main criticisms of Sharia, and how do proponents respond to these criticisms?
What are the key differences between Sharia and secular legal systems?

◂Social Studies Worksheets and Study Guides Eighth Grade. Phoenicia

The resources above cover the following skills:

National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies (NCSS)

TIME, CONTINUITY, AND CHANGE

SOCIAL STUDIES PROGRAMS SHOULD INCLUDE EXPERIENCES THAT PROVIDE FOR THE STUDY OF THE PAST AND ITS LEGACY.

KNOWLEDGE - Learners will understand:

Key historical periods and patterns of change within and across cultures (e.g., the rise and fall of ancient civilizations, the development of technology, the rise of modern nation-states, and the establishment and breakdown of colonial systems).

National Center for History in Schools (NCHS)

Historical Thinking Standards

Historical Comprehension

Reconstruct the literal meaning of a historical passage.

World History Content Standards

Era 3: Classical Traditions, Major Religions, and Giant Empires, 1000 BCE-300 CE

The emergence of Aegean civilization and how interrelations developed among peoples of the eastern Mediterranean and Southwest Asia, 600-200 BCE.

The student understands the development of the Persian (Achaemenid) empire and the consequences of its conflicts with the Greeks.

Major global trends from 1000 BCE-300 CE.

The student understands major global trends from 1000 BCE to 300 CE.