What are the similarities between democracy and Islam, and how can we benefit from democratic principles that do not contradict Islamic Sharia?
The relationship between democracy and Islam has been a subject of varying opinions, but there are similarities between democracy and the principle of Shura (consultation). Democracy has an aspect that Islam approves of, which is granting the nation the right to choose its rulers, hold them accountable, and oversee them. However, it also has an aspect that Islam rejects, which is granting the nation the absolute right to legislate. Islam does not prohibit benefiting from administrative and oversight systems that do not conflict with Sharia. The principle of Shura suffices for both democratic and dictatorial systems, combining their advantages. The Islamic system is based on Shura and cooperation in consultation, and on hearing and obedience and trust in implementation. Thus, it combines the virtues of democracy and the advantages of dictatorship while eliminating their flaws. Democracy means the rule of the people by themselves, and it is synonymous with Shura in granting the people the right to participate in decision-making. Shura is part of the Islamic creed, while democracy is a man-made system. Islam has a democratic tendency in this sense, meaning it has a system that prevents the tyranny of rulers and enables the people to monitor and hold them accountable.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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