What is the meaning of the principle "Means have the rulings of their ends," and does it imply that the end justifies the means?
Source: FtawySummarized from the full answer at Ftawy · imported Sep 2, 2026
The meaning of "means take the ruling of their ends" is that an evil end makes the means forbidden, and good ends must only be attained through permissible means. That which leads to the forbidden becomes forbidden itself, such as selling grapes to one who will press them into wine, or selling weapons to one who will use them to waylay travelers. Allah Almighty says: "And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression." As for the rule "the end justifies the means," it contradicts Islam.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · imported
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 59138
- Imported
- Translation status
- Source text, unreviewed
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