2.4 Use of the Qur'an in Legal Thinking and Its Relationship with Hadith, Consensus (Ijma') and Analogy (Qiyas)


2026 📋 Syllabus Objectives

  • Understand how the Qur'an is used in Islamic legal thinking.
  • Understand the relationship between the Qur'an and Hadith in forming Islamic law.
  • Understand the role of Ijma' (consensus) as a source of Islamic law and its relationship with the Qur'an and Hadith.
  • Understand the role of Qiyas (analogy) as a source of Islamic law and its relationship with the Qur'an and Hadith.

1. The Qur'an as the Primary Source of Islamic Legal Thinking

The Qur'an is the most important and most fundamental source of Islamic law. All principles, rules, and injunctions of Islam are ultimately drawn from it. Because the Qur'an is the direct Word of Allah SWT, no human authority — whether a government, parliament, or individual — can change, cancel, or override its laws.

Allah SWT revealed the Qur'an to Prophet Muhammad PBUH over a period of approximately 23 years, in the Arabic language. It covers all major aspects of human life — social, political, economic, religious, and more.

The Qur'an provides guidance for all of mankind. Allah SWT confirms this in three verses:

"(It is) an exposition of that which is decreed for mankind." (Surah Yunus 10:37)

"And We reveal the scripture unto thee as an exposition of all things." (Surah An-Nahl 16:89)

"Lo! We have revealed unto thee the scripture for mankind with truth." (Surah Az-Zumar 39:41)

The Qur'an is also protected from all corruption:

"We have without doubt sent down the Message; and We will surely guard it (from corruption)" (Surah Al-Hijr 15:9)


What Areas Does Qur'anic Law Cover?

Although not every single matter is directly and explicitly addressed in the Qur'an, it provides general principles and specific laws across a wide range of subjects:

AreaExample
Religious DutiesPrayer, fasting, Zakat (charity), Hajj
Family LawsMarriage requirements, dower (mahr), divorce
Penal LawsPunishments for theft, adultery, armed robbery
Laws of EvidenceA high standard of proof is required before punishment
Laws of WarProhibition of killing women, children, and prisoners
International LawHonouring treaties and maintaining peaceful relations
Economic LawsProhibition of Riba (interest), encouragement of honest trade
Contract LawMuslims must fulfil their agreements and promises

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