Heavenly Recommendations about Moderation towards Humanity: Imām Al-Awzā’ī as a Model

Abstract

The severe crises of the Middle East have undoubtedly spawned an environment of deep-seated resentment, in which extremists’ views have flourished. Terrorist groups such as al-Qaeda and ISIS have portrayed themselves as the saviours of the Islamic Umma (nation) and the guardians of Islam. They have taken advantage of Muslim grievances as a vehicle to justify a call for violence. Moreover, they have exploited the religion through selective reading and interpretation of sacred texts, relying on the power of the literal meaning that conceals many interpretations and objectives. Their textual approach that relies on a strict adherence to the scriptures neglects Fiqh Ma’ālāt al-Af’āl (the results of actions), Fiqh al-Muwāzanāt (jurisprudence of balances), Fiqh al-Awlawīyāt (jurisprudence of priorities), and Maqasid al-Sharī’ah (higher objectives of Islamic law). Moreover, they have rejected Islamic laws and regulations regarding al-Jihād, al-Amān (safe-conduct), promoting righteousness and purging evil, rebellion against Muslim rulers, and the sanctity of human life (Al-Hmoud, 2013; Al-Ḥmad, 2022).