Maslaha

Word of the Day

Maslaha

Concept of the public welfare or common good in Muslim judicial thought. It has been interpreted to reflect a broader concern for public interest through a more flexible approach to the application of the principle of Qiyas. In general, it afforded legal scholars and state a degree of flexibility in meeting exigencies or situations where the welfare of the community as a whole might be compromised.

In recent times advocates of reform have argued that the principle permits the addressing of social and legal issues that had not arisen previously, so that every new generation is able to interpret Muslim tradition and legal practice in the context of the need of the time. Some of these issues relate to economic aspects, such as modern form of banking and finance, others to ethical issues, such as family planning and modern medicine and issues of governance such political representation and human rights. (Dictionary of Islam: Azim Nanji)