Islamic law

Submitted by Imam Ahmed Syeed Ali Muhammed (United States), Mar 25, 2008 at 15:08

I have to say penelope is a very passionate individual about this subject. I'm afraid however she has the wrong idea, as do also most Muslims about Shariah Law. I was born American, and converted to Islam when I was about 21 yrs old, My goal in life was to become an Imam, and in order to do that you have to get a Masters degree in Islamic studies, or Sharia law. I did both.

To the western mind, yes Shariah Law does seem backwards for this day and age. But we must bear in mind that the harsh punishments that non Muslims hear about are not always carried out with the first brush of the Law. It rests with the judge. 'Is the person a habitual offender?' How has is actions, or inactions affected the victim? What punishment would be best in the interest of Justice.

And lastly ' Is the Offender able to be rehabilitated?" All these are taken into account before any punishment is passed down. Also in Islamic Law Mercy is mostly meted out instead of punishment. A thief who steals out of necessity rather than to commit a crime is not punished at all. A person who kills someone accidently is not sent to prison, but in some way, suitable to the aggrieved family pays Diyah.

I myself don't think Shariah Law should be passed in America, why, when the democracy we enjoy here is so similar to it.

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