Islamic ethics: principles, sources, and characteristics

This chapter delves into the multifaceted landscape of Islamic ethics, exploring its foundational principles. Islamic ethics, deeply rooted in the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah, offers a unique perspective on morality, guiding individuals in their interactions with others and shaping their ethi...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Bakour Mohamad, Bachar
Format: Book Chapter
Language:English
Published: IIUM Press 2025
Subjects:
Online Access:http://irep.iium.edu.my/117319/1/CHAPTER%202-bashar_merged.pdf
http://irep.iium.edu.my/117319/
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:This chapter delves into the multifaceted landscape of Islamic ethics, exploring its foundational principles. Islamic ethics, deeply rooted in the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah, offers a unique perspective on morality, guiding individuals in their interactions with others and shaping their ethical conduct. The chapter begins by dissecting the division of ethics, which traditionally encompasses normative ethics, metaethics, and applied ethics. Through this lens, one gains insight into the theoretical frameworks and practical applications that underpin Islamic ethical discourse. Moreover, the chapter explores the sources of ethics in Islam, namely the Qur’an and Sunnah, as the primary repositories of divine guidance and moral injunctions. A crucial aspect of Islamic ethics is its interrelationship with fiqh and Sufism. While fiqh provides the legal framework for ethical conduct, Sufism offers a spiritual dimension that emphasizes the inner transformation of the individual. This analysis explores how these two branches of Islamic thought complement each other, thereby enriching the ethical landscape with their distinct perspectives. Additionally, it outlines the characteristics of Islamic ethics, highlighting its universal principles, focus on intentionality, and commitment to justice and equality. Through the examination of these key elements, this discussion aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of Islamic ethics and its role in guiding individuals toward moral excellence and spiritual fulfillment.