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The question

What is a brief overview of the science of maqasid and its history?

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Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Oct 24, 20261 min readAlso available in العربية
The answer

The science of Maqasid al- (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.

Summary from Ftawy's records · added here

Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.

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Ftawy
Original fatwa ID
23763
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Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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