FAQ: Sharia law

What is sharia law?

A broad code of conduct governing all aspects of life, from dietary rules to the wearing of the hijab, which Muslims can choose to adopt in varying degrees as a matter of personal conscience.

Where does sharia law come from?

Sharia, meaning "way or path to the water", is derived from interpretation of the teachings of the Qur'an, the Hadith (the sayings and conduct of the prophet Muhammad) and fatwas, a type of jurisprudence of the rulings of Islamic scholars over many centuries.

Are there different interpretations of sharia?


How is it applied in sharia states?


What are hadd offences?


Some countries, such as Saudi Arabia, claim to live under pure sharia law and enforce these penalties for hadd offences. They carry specific penalties, set by the Qur'an and by the prophet Muhammad. Offences include unlawful sexual intercourse, the drinking of alcohol, theft and highway robbery.