ما هي نبذة عن علم المقاصد وتاريخه؟

The science of Maqasid al-Sharia (objectives of Islamic law) refers to "the wisdom and aims that the Sharia seeks to achieve through its legal rulings." It is divided into general objectives that aim to realize people's interests in this world and the hereafter, and specific objectives related to particular areas. The rulings of Islam form a single integrated system; it is not permissible to adopt some and abandon others.

The interests in Maqasid al-Sharia are categorized into three levels: Daruriyyat (necessities: preservation of religion, life, progeny, intellect, and wealth), Hajiyyat (needs: warding off hardship and difficulty), and Tahsinat (embellishments: beautifying people's conditions and noble character).

The science of Maqasid emerged during the era of the Companions, developed further by the scholars of Usul (principles of Islamic jurisprudence), and gained an independent status at the hands of Al-Shatibi in "Al-Muwafaqat." Writings on it have continued into the modern era.