Towards An Islamic Ethical Theory

Abstract

This research addresses three fundamental questions: First, what is an Islamic ethical theory? How rules and regulations (i.e sharia) relate to Islamic ethical theory? And finally can ethics and rules be subjected to reason and reasoning? The study identified elements of an ethical frame, which are Quranic based using Mohammed al-Jabiri,s organization of the Quran based on the sequence of revelation. Such organization allows for revisiting relation between ethics and rules from holistic perspective and historically sensitive reading. Using analytical and synthetic method, the following ethical principles, which add up to an Islamic order were identified including: principle of pure faith and sincerity, protection of the weak and vulnerable in society, protection of family, maintaining life and finally protection of community. Under each of these ethical principles relevant rules and regulations were also identified their relationship and-association with such ethical principles were examined. The research argues that rules and regulations in Islam can only have meaning if placed in the context of ethics, Rules and regulations have no intrinsic value of their own. The research also demonstrates that both Islamic ethics and that of rules and regulations are subjected to reason and reasoning. In other words, they both can be part of public deliberation.