Islamic Law, or Shariah, is a complete and divine system that ensures justice, equality, and peaceful coexistence. Throughout history, various civilizations created legal codes, but most failed to establish real equality and fairness. Unlike ancient or modern laws based on class or discrimination, Islamic Law treats all humans equally, regardless of race, religion, or status. It combines moral values with practical life, ensuring both freedom and responsibility. In today’s world of inequality and moral decline, Islamic principles remain relevant and essential. They promote social harmony, compassion, and human dignity — offering the best framework for justice and peace in all eras.
Throughout history, humankind has constantly sought ways to refine civilization, guide moral behaviour, and establish systems of justice and social harmony. Every era has witnessed efforts to create laws and systems of governance to keep human thought and conduct within the boundaries of ethics and civility. Legal scholars explain that when the different aspects of human life are governed by laws and principles, society naturally becomes just, organised, and peaceful.
On the other hand, societies that do not believe in the rule of law or disregard it entirely tend to lose their moral values and humanitarian spirit. In such places, human emotions, compassion, and respect disappear, and people become absorbed in materialism and self-interest. They forget the noble principles of humanity such as sacrifice, forgiveness, patience, and mutual respect.
Hence, the importance of law lies in the fact that it not only regulates the lives of individuals but also protects their rights, prevents injustice, and restrains corruption and dishonesty. A society without laws becomes chaotic, but one governed by law promotes order, peace, and justice. When members of a community obey laws sincerely, that society becomes almost free of crimes — and the prevention of crime is the clearest sign of progress and civility.
For this reason, every civilisation and religion throughout history has had some kind of legal framework or code of conduct. Each has its own philosophy, principles, and methods of implementation. However, the effectiveness of these laws depends on whether they promote unity and justice or create divisions among people.
When we study the history of civilisations, we find that one of the earliest recorded laws was the Code of Hammurabi, which appeared around 1750 BCE. Scholars differ on who exactly established it, but many believe it was engraved on a large stone by King Nimrod, a contemporary of Prophet Abraham (peace be upon him). This law contained hundreds of clauses and was translated into several languages. Although extensive, it divided society into three unequal groups: nobles, common people, and slaves. Justice was not equal; it was applied according to social class.
Later, around 450 BCE, the Roman Law was formally written and engraved on twelve tablets, hence also known as the Law of the Twelve Tables. It was enforced throughout the Roman Empire. Some Western orientalists, and even a few Muslim thinkers, have argued that Islamic jurisprudence was influenced by Roman Law. However, Islamic scholars have refuted this claim convincingly. The Roman system also upheld class distinctions and did not provide equal treatment for all.
The Jewish legal system and the Hindu legal code — known as Manu Dharma Shastra or Manu Smriti — are also among the oldest in history. The Manu Smriti, originally written in Sanskrit, has been translated into many major languages, including Urdu, English, and Persian.
In modern times, Western law is often praised for promoting equality and democracy. Western societies take pride in their claim that their legal systems represent true human rights and fairness. However, this belief is not entirely true. A closer study of these systems reveals that they still carry fundamental flaws — particularly discrimination based on race, religion, and social status. Most of their legal clauses differentiate between people rather than uniting them. Any law that is based on such divisions loses its moral worth and spiritual strength. True law must treat all humans equally, regardless of background or position.
Therefore, in every age, preference has been given to those laws and documents that emphasise justice, equality, and impartiality. Laws founded on discrimination, partiality, or the superiority of one group over another can never lead to a peaceful or progressive society.
When we examine Islamic Law (Shariah), it becomes clear that it guides humanity towards the straight path in every aspect of life. Justice, equality, tolerance, and kindness form the very spirit of Islamic Law. History is full of examples demonstrating how Islam established justice not only for Muslims but for all members of society.
Because of these qualities, Islamic Law holds a unique and distinguished position among all legal systems in the world. Despite its perfection and clarity, critics often accuse Islamic teachings of being harsh or outdated — an accusation rooted in ignorance and prejudice.
Today, it is necessary for Muslims to re-examine their educational and intellectual systems. We must train individuals who can understand modern challenges and respond to critics logically and confidently. Unfortunately, many people today are unaware of the ideological attacks being made against Islam and the strategies used to misrepresent it. A deep and careful understanding of the modern world is essential to counter such misconceptions effectively.
Western societies often claim that their laws ensure the welfare of humanity. However, if we compare their legal systems with Islamic Law, we can clearly see that Islamic Law is far more complete, timeless, and harmonious. It meets the needs of every era, accommodates modern knowledge and scientific progress, and continues to guide humanity towards moral excellence and social justice.
The real problem arises when human thought becomes narrow and minds become closed. Today’s world urgently needs the principles of Islamic Law — principles that guarantee equality, fairness, and peaceful coexistence. The values of justice, honesty, and compassion in Islam are not theoretical; they are living realities proven by history and experience.
No society can be considered civilised or progressive until it ensures justice, equality, and the protection of rights for all its members. Only through these principles can a truly moral, humane, and welfare-based society be built — and Islamic Law provides the most perfect foundation for it.

Conclusion

When we compare Islamic Law with other legal systems — ancient or modern — it becomes clear that Islam offers the most complete, balanced, and humane framework for life. It unites spirituality with practicality, law with morality, and freedom with responsibility. It does not merely set punishments or rules; it builds a moral conscience within individuals and societies.
The world today desperately needs a system that ensures justice, equality, and peace — not just in words, but in reality. The principles of Islamic Law can fill this vacuum. Its message is timeless, universal, and rooted in divine wisdom.
No civilisation can truly prosper unless it guarantees fairness, human dignity, and the protection of rights for all. The Islamic legal system, with its emphasis on equality, compassion, and moral responsibility, stands as a shining beacon for humanity. It reminds us that peace and prosperity can only be achieved when justice becomes the foundation of society.
Thus, Islamic Law is not merely a religious code; it is the very essence of moral order, social justice, and peaceful coexistence — a complete and everlasting guarantee for the survival and progress of humanity.

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