Is It Hypocrisy to Dislike Calls for Implementing Shari’a in a Western Country?
Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Question
Is it hypocritical to dislike Muslims calling for the implementation of Shari‘a in a Western country, believing that the country’s laws should remain as they are and that those seeking Shari‘a should move to a Muslim-majority country?
Answer
Disliking Sacred Law Is Hypocritical
Disliking Sacred Law (Shari‘a) reflects a misunderstanding of its divine origin and purpose. As Muslims, our faith necessitates love and reverence for the guidance Allah (Most High) has revealed.
The Quran states, “Indeed, those who do not judge by what Allah has revealed are the disbelievers” [Quran, 5:44]. Thus, to harbor a dislike for Shari‘a, in essence, conflicts with the very foundation of faith.
Disliking the Manner of Advocacy Is Not Hypocritical
While Sacred Law itself must be respected, it is entirely valid to dislike the approach or method some individuals may employ in calling for its implementation. If the call lacks wisdom, kindness, or a proper understanding of the realities and sensitivities of a given context, it may harm the perception of Islam rather than benefit it.
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Indeed, gentleness is not found in anything except that it beautifies it, and it is not removed from anything except that it disgraces it” [Muslim].
Applying Wisdom and Considering Context
Implementing Sacred Law in a Western country requires wisdom and a thorough understanding of the societal, legal, and cultural framework. Islam teaches us to prioritize what benefits the broader society and to adopt a gradual, wise approach to any change. Forcing or demanding a rigid implementation of Sacred Law without considering these factors contradicts the balanced and holistic approach that Islam advocates. We may take a lesson here from the gradual prohibition of khamr (wine) in the revelation of the Quran.
Clarifying the Concept of Sacred Law
It is crucial to understand what Shari‘a truly represents. It is not merely a set of penal codes but a comprehensive system encompassing worship, ethics, family relations, social justice, and governance. Shari‘a emphasizes mercy, justice, and the common good. Unfortunately, reducing it to harsh or misunderstood aspects distorts its essence and alienates people.
A Balanced Perspective
Muslims living in Western countries must embody the principles of Islam with excellence, wisdom, and mercy. Rather than focusing solely on legal systems, the emphasis should be on being exemplary citizens who contribute positively to society. Advocacy for Sacred Law should reflect its true beauty and universality while also considering the prevailing system of the land and the rights of others.
In conclusion, one should respect Sacred Law while being critical of any inappropriate methods of advocating for its implementation. By adopting a balanced approach rooted in wisdom, kindness, and proper understanding, Muslims can fulfill their duty of conveying the beauty of Islam effectively.
Allah knows best.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Mohammad Abu Bakr Badhib
Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan.
Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Mawlana Yusuf Karaan, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.
He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has served as the Director of the Discover Islam Centre and Al Jeem Foundation. For the last five years till present, he has served as the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.
Shaykh Irshaad has thirteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town). He is currently building an Islamic online learning and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy living and fitness.