Protection of Human Life in Islamic Law
Abdul Qayoom Channa
Dr. Hafiz Ahmed Saeed Rana
Muhammad Junaid
Dr Masooma Batool
Abstract
The preservation of human life stands as a cardinal principle within Islamic law, reflecting its intrinsic value and the moral imperatives that guide the ethical and legal dimensions of the faith. Rooted in the Quranic teachings and exemplified through the Prophetic traditions, the sanctity of human life underscores Islam's commitment to compassion, justice, and the equitable treatment of all individuals. This article delves into the profound significance of protecting human life in Islamic law, tracing its historical origins, jurisprudential foundations, and contemporary implications.The Quranic revelation, specifically exemplified in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:32), unequivocally articulates the value of safeguarding human life, equating the preservation of one life to the preservation of all of humanity. The Hadith literature further amplifies this principle through the actions and sayings of Prophet Muhammad, establishing a comprehensive ethical framework that transcends time and place.The guides in Holy Quran:۞ قُلْ تَعَالَوْا۟ أَتْلُ مَا حَرَّمَ رَبُّكُمْ عَلَيْكُمْ ۖ أَلَّا تُشْرِكُوا۟ بِهِۦ شَيْـًۭٔا ۖ وَبِٱلْوَٰلِدَيْنِ إِحْسَـٰنًۭا ۖ وَلَا تَقْتُلُوٓا۟ أَوْلَـٰدَكُم مِّنْ إِمْلَـٰقٍۢ ۖ نَّحْنُ نَرْزُقُكُمْ وَإِيَّاهُمْ ۖ وَلَا تَقْرَبُوا۟ ٱلْفَوَٰحِشَ مَا ظَهَرَ مِنْهَا وَمَا بَطَنَ ۖ وَلَاتَقْتُلُوا۟ٱلنَّفْسَ ٱلَّتِى حَرَّمَ ٱللَّهُ إِلَّا بِٱلْحَقِّ ذَٰلِكُمْ وَصَّىٰكُم بِهِۦ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَعْقِلُونَ .ۚ[1]Say (O Muhammad SAW): "Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited you from: Join not anything in worship with Him; be good and dutiful to your parents; kill not your children because of poverty - We provide sustenance for you and for them; come not near to Al-Fawahish (shameful sins, illegal sexual intercourse, etc.) whether committed openly or secretly, and kill not anyone whom Allah has forbidden, except for a just cause (according to Islamic law). This He has commanded you that you may understand. [6:151].Exploring the historical development, the article examines how Islamic jurisprudence has embraced and upheld the sanctity of human life. Across various schools of thought, jurists have consistently emphasized the primacy of protecting life, influencing various legal rulings, ethical considerations, and applications. From capital punishment to medical ethics, this principle has found resonance in areas of law that address complex moral and social challenges.In the contemporary era, the principle of protecting human life remains as relevant as ever. Its alignment with international human rights standards serves as a platform for interfaith dialogue and bridges cultural divides. Moreover, as modern ethical dilemmas emerge, such as those posed by biotechnological advancements and global conflicts, Islamic law's emphasis on human life protection provides a lens through which these challenges can be ethically navigated.The article concludes by highlighting the enduring significance of the principle of protecting human life in Islamic law. It underscores the value of preserving human dignity, compassion, and justice within the Islamic legal tradition, offering insights that can resonate beyond faith boundaries to shape a more humane and equitable global society.