The good, the bad and the ugly…
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Is there a difference between what is considered good and what is lawful? How do these concepts compare with what is deemed impure or malignant? Why were previous nations not prohibited from certain things that are now unlawful in Islam? These questions often arise but can be complex to address.
Concepts of Good and Lawful
The concepts of “good” and “lawful” (ḥalāl) are distinct in Islamic law. Good refers to what is inherently beneficial or pure. Lawful is what Allah permits through His legislative command. Conversely, “impure” (khabeeth) refers to what is inherently harmful or forbidden.
Allah’s Authority in Legislation
In Islamic jurisprudence, Allah’s authority determines what is lawful and what is not. Allah can declare something lawful or prohibited based on His wisdom. The final Sharī’ah, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, aligns the principles of goodness with legality and prohibits what is impure or malignant. This alignment was not present in earlier laws.
Conclusion
This analysis, based on Chapter 11 of Kitāb at-Tawḥeed, clarifies these distinctions and emphasizes Allah’s exclusive authority in defining good and lawful.
To download or view the chapter click on the book cover.
