Is the Application of the Shariah Irrelevant to Muslims Living in Non-Muslim Lands?
Question:
As a Muslim residing in a Western country with the likelihood of continuing to live there permanently, I question the relevance and application of Shariah to my circumstances. Since I do not reside in a predominantly Muslim country, and it is neither practical nor appropriate to advocate for the implementation of Shariah law in the West, I am left wondering about its significance to my life. Can you provide some input regarding this matter?
Answer:
The relevance of Shariah to you is rooted in the following obligatory principles for Muslims:
You must believe in the obligation to establish Allah’s Shariah when the conditions and circumstances necessitate it.
You must yearn to see Allah’s Shariah be established when the conditions and circumstances make it compulsory.
You are required to acknowledge and believe in the superiority of Allah’s Shariah over all other legal systems, as Allah is The Legislator (الشارع), which entails recognizing Allah as the supreme and most authoritative Legislator.
Therefore, you must maintain these correct beliefs to ensure a sound theological foundation as a Muslim. This is especially important in contemporary times when the reputation of Shariah has been severely tarnished and maligned. It is expected that you, as a Muslim, are confident in and proud of these beliefs and that you are prepared to defend the laws instituted by Allah.
A Muslim must not remain indifferent or neutral towards secularism. While living under secularism is a reality, it does not equate to embracing, liking, or desiring it as a system of governance. Some forms of secularism may be preferable to other systems, but this does not imply wholehearted acceptance of secularism as a political ideology. As a Muslim, your allegiance is to the Shariah of Allah.
The aforementioned principles constitute the bare minimum required of every Muslim. Adhering to these beliefs does not signify exceptional piety or earn additional merit with Allah. Unfortunately, many Muslims fall short in this regard, often justifying their lapse by claiming that such beliefs are irrelevant given their geographical location. However, such theological beliefs are critically important, irrespective of one’s location.
In summary, while residing in the West may limit your ability to implement the Shariah physically, you can still significantly contribute through your speech by praising and defending it, as long as doing so does not cause you undue distress. The bare minimum is maintaining sound beliefs and desires regarding the Shariah in your heart.
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