Q2. Discuss whether the laws revealed previously to the promulgation of Islam are binding (20) on the Muslims or not? 2022
In Islamic jurisprudence, the laws revealed prior to the promulgation of Islam are not considered binding on Muslims. The advent of Islam and the revelation of the Qur’an brought a new set of laws and guidance that superseded and abrogated the previous religious laws.
According to Islamic belief, the previous religious laws revealed to different prophets, such as the laws of Judaism given to Moses (Musa, peace be upon him) or the laws of Christianity associated with Jesus (Isa, peace be upon him), were intended for specific communities and periods of time. These laws were meant to fulfill the needs and circumstances of those particular times and places.
With the final revelation of the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), Islam is considered the last and complete divine message. The Qur’an contains comprehensive guidance for all aspects of life, including matters of worship, morality, and social interactions. It supersedes and replaces the previous religious laws, as it is believed to be the final and perfected revelation.
The concept of abrogation (naskh) in Islamic jurisprudence acknowledges that certain verses in the Qur’an have nullified or replaced earlier rulings or laws. This is based on the understanding that the laws revealed in previous scriptures were specific to their respective communities and historical contexts, whereas the Qur’an is meant to be a universal guidance for all people until the end of time.
It is important to note that while the previous laws are not binding on Muslims, Islam recognizes the validity and respect for the earlier prophets and their scriptures. Muslims believe in the truth of those prophets and their message, but they consider the Qur’an as the final and most comprehensive revelation, and it is the primary source of guidance for Muslims.
In summary, the laws revealed prior to the promulgation of Islam are not considered binding on Muslims. The Qur’an, being the final and complete revelation, supersedes and replaces the previous religious laws, providing comprehensive guidance for Muslims in all aspects of life.
