(2)A

Introduction to Sources of
Islam
The Concept of Deen
DR. MAQBOOL HASSAN
Assistant Professor
Department of Islamic Studies
Bahria University, Karachi Campus
1
‫)الدین( ‪DEEN‬‬

‫‪2‬‬
 Deen (‫)دٌن‬
Literal Meaning:

The literal meaning of "Deen" ( ‫ )دین‬in Arabic refers to a

way of life, a system of beliefs, practices, and rituals.

In Arabic, "Deen" comes from the root word" -‫و‬-‫"د‬,which

conveys the idea of obedience, judgment, and reward.
In this sense, "Deen" denotes a set of rules, laws, and
principles that guide the life of a believer.
(Code of Life) 3
 Deen (‫ )دٌن‬in Islam
Deen ( ‫ )دین‬in Islam refers to a comprehensive and all-encompassing way of
life and belief system that governs every aspect of an individual's existence.
It includes religious, moral, ethical, social, and legal dimensions, all of which
are based on the teachings and principles of Islam. Deen encompasses a
person's relationship with their Creator (Allah), their relationship with fellow
human beings, and their responsibilities towards the world around them.

Allah (sbwt) created the human being and DEEN is also ordained by their
Creator-Allah Almighty. He Himself named it as ISLAM.

‫ٱۡل إس َٰل ُۗم۔‬

ِ ‫ٱّلل إ‬
َِّ َّ‫ِإنَّ ٱلدٌِنَّ ِعند‬
Verily, the DEEN according to Him is Al-Islam. (Al-e-Imran; 19) 4
ISLAM
Islam is an Arabic word derived from the Arabic root word SALAMA (ََ ََ‫سن‬
َ ) "means to obey, to
submit.
In Arabic, word “Islam” ( ‫ )إسنم‬originating from the tri-literal root words salama ( -‫ل‬-‫سنََ = )س‬, to
submit and salima ( -‫ل‬-‫س َِ = )س‬,
To save or protect or to keep in piece.
So “Islam” has the concepts of submission, surrender, safeness, and peace.

In a religious context, Islam refers to the total surrender to the will of Allah Almighty.
“Muslim” (َ َِ ‫ ) ُم ْس‬means one who "submits or surrenders to Allah (swt).
...He has named you "Muslims" in the old (scriptures) and in this(scripture)... (Al-Hajj-78)
The Islam teaches that in order to achieve true piece of mind and heart, one must submit to
Allah Almighty and live according to His Divinely revealed commandments/law
The religion Islam is a complete code of life .It is the acceptance of and obedience to the
teachings of Allah Almighty He revealed to His Prophets. Islam is not a new
religion. It is, in essence, the same message and guidance which Allah revealed to all prophets 5
be fore Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him.
Allah says in the Quran:

"Say, `We believe in ALLAH and that which has been

revealed to us, and that which was revealed to Abraham and
Ismael and Isaac and Jacob and the tribes, and in that which
was given to Moses and Jesus and other Prophets from their
Lord. We make no distinction between any of them and to HIM
we submit." (Al-e-Imran: 84)

Islam comprises Iman & Ibadah (complete sub-mission to

Allah Almighty in every walk of life).
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The essence of true and authentic Islamic thought consists of
the idea that it is not enough to practice Islam in the personal
life only, but that the teachings of the Quran and those of the
Sunnah need also be implemented in their totality in the social,
economic, and political fields. In other words, it implies the
establishment of the sovereignty of Almighty Allah (S.W.T) in all
domains, or the removal of the dichotomy between collective
life and state authority on the one hand and Divine guidance
on the other.
Islamic System of Social Justice – which is the most balanced
synthesis of human freedom, fraternity, and equality, and
which embodies the Divine attributes of Benevolence,
Providence, and Justice – can be established on Allah’s earth. 7
 SECULARISM
Secularism is an ideology that says religion should not be involved with the
ordinary social and political activities of a country.
It is a belief system that separates religion from public life, including civil affairs
and the state. It also emphasizes the separation of the state from religion, and full
freedom and tolerance for all religions.
Under the secularism, any number of religions can be accommodated under a
secular system, provided no demand is made regarding the application of religious
criteria in defining social, economic, and political policies.
When a nation or government is secularist, it has no official state religion and
respect all religions equally under the law. For example India is a secular state,
while Pakistan is an example of a non-secular state.
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Such type of concept is entirely opposite to the basic teaching of Islam.
 DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ISLAM AND SECULARISM
Here are some differences between Islam and secularism:
Ethics: Secular ethics are evolutionary, while Islamic ethics are
unchanging and set by Allah.
Worldview: The secular worldview says people act according to their
desires and only act justly when they are being watched. The Islamic
worldview says people act justly regardless of their desires because they
believe Allah knows everything.
Model: The Western secular model prioritizes a rational mind, while Islam's
model emphasizes justice.
Free will: Islam doesn't require the use of free will, leaving it up to the
individual to choose between right and wrong. Secularism doesn't interfere
with a person's religious choice.
Separation of Reigion and state: Secularism is a political movement that
separates religion and government. 9
Hereafter: Secular states don't consider the afterlife, only worldly practices.
 Sharia(‫)الشرعٌہ‬
Literal Meaning: The literal meaning of "Al-Sharia" is derived from the
Arabic root word “shara'a,” ( ‫ )شرر‬which means "a path to water" or "a way
to a watering place." In a broader sense, it refers to a clear and well-defined
path or way.
ISLAMIC CONCEPT OF SHARIA: In the context of Islamic terminology,
it signifies the clear and well-defined path or way of life that Allah
(God) has prescribed for Muslims to follow, covering all aspects of
their lives, including religious, moral, social, and legal matters. "Al-
Sharia" refers to the comprehensive system of Islamic law and principles
that govern the life of a Muslim. It is based on divine guidance from the
Quran and the teachings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad (peace
be upon him) as recorded in the Hadiths.
Sharia serves as a moral and legal framework for Muslims, providing 10
guidance on how to live in accordance with Islamic principles.
 Five Objectives of Sharia:
(‫)مقاصدَّالشرعٌہ‬
Sharia aims to preserve five essential objectives:
The preservation of;

1- Religion (deen),
2- Life (nafs),
3- Intellect (aql),
4- Lineage (nasl), and
5- Property (mal).

These objectives guide the development and interpretation of

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Sharia principles.
Quranic References of Sharia:
Quran 45:18: “Then We put you, [O Muhammad], on an ordained way
concerning the matter [of religion]; so follow it and do not follow the
inclinations of those who do not know.”

This verse highlights that Allah has placed the Prophet Muhammad on an
ordained way (Sharia) concerning religion, and Muslims are instructed to
follow it.

Quran 5:48: “And We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth,
confirming that which preceded it of the Scripture and as a criterion over it. So
judge between them by what Allah has revealed and do not follow their
inclinations away from what has come to you of the truth.”

This verse emphasizes the Quran as a source of guidance and instructs the
Prophet to judge among people according to what Allah has revealed, which is 12
a reference to Sharia.
Hadith References of Sharia :
Hadith on Sharia: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "I have
left among you two precious things (thaqalayn) and if you adhere to both of
them, you will never go astray after me. They are the Book of Allah and my
Progeny, that is my Ahlul Bayt." (Hadith recorded in Sahih Muslim)

In this Hadith, the Prophet identifies the Quran as one of the two precious
things he has left for his Ummah (community), emphasizing its importance as
a source of Sharia.

Hadith on Following the Sunnah (Prophetic Tradition): The Prophet

Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "I have left among you something
which, if you hold fast to it, you will never go astray after me – the Book of
Allah and my Prophetic Sunnah." (Hadith recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah)
This Hadith emphasizes the importance of following the Sunnah, which is an
integral part of the Sharia.
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 Scope of Deen
‫دٌنَّکیَّجامعٌت‬
Deen in Islam is an encompassing concept that
defines not only the religious beliefs and practices
of Muslims but also their entire way of life. It offers
a holistic and integrated framework that guides
individuals in their spiritual, moral, social, and
ethical dimensions, aiming to create a just and
harmonious society in accordance with the
teachings of Islam.
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The scope of Deen in Islam is vast and covers various aspects of
life, including:

1-Worship and Spirituality: Deen encompasses the rituals and acts

of worship in Islam, such as prayer (Salah), fasting (Sawm), charity
(Zakah), and pilgrimage (Hajj). It guides individuals in their spiritual
journey and their connection with Allah.

2-Morality and Ethics: Deen sets a moral and ethical framework for
individuals' conduct. It defines what is right and wrong, emphasizing
virtues like honesty, compassion, justice, and integrity.

3-Social and Family Life: Deen provides guidance on family

structure, relationships, and responsibilities. It encourages strong 15
family bonds, respect for parents, and care for children and relatives.
4-Legal and Judicial Matters: Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh) is an
integral part of Deen, covering legal matters, contracts, and
regulations. It guides Muslims in matters of personal conduct,
business transactions, and civil issues.
5-Community and Society: Deen emphasizes the importance of
community and encourages social cohesion. It promotes charitable
acts, helping the less fortunate, and working for the welfare of society
as a whole.
6-Political and Governance Principles: While not prescribing a
specific form of government, Deen provides principles of justice,
accountability, and consultation (Shura) that can guide governance in
an Islamic context.
7-Economics and Finance: Deen offers guidelines for economic
transactions and financial ethics, including prohibitions on usury 16
(Riba) and guidelines for fair trade and commerce.
8-Environment and Stewardship: Deen encourages responsible
stewardship of the Earth and its resources. It teaches that humans are
trustees (Khalifah) on Earth and should protect and preserve the
environment.
9-Education and Knowledge: Deen places a strong emphasis on
seeking knowledge and encourages lifelong learning. It values both
religious and secular education.
10-Personal Development: Deen encourages self-improvement and
self-reflection. It teaches individuals to strive for personal growth and
moral excellence.
11-Interpersonal Relations: Deen provides guidance on how
individuals should interact with one another, promoting respect,
kindness, and fairness in relationships.
12-International Relations: In a broader context, Deen also addresses
how Muslims should engage with the global community, promoting 17
peace, justice, and cooperation among nations.
Importance of
Understanding
“Deen”
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Understanding Deen, which refers to the comprehensive way of life
prescribed by Islam, is of paramount importance for Muslims and
anyone interested in the religion. Here are key points explaining the
significance of understanding Deen:
1-Guidance for Life:
Deen serves as a complete guide for how Muslims should live their
life. It offers a framework for ethical, moral, and spiritual conduct,
helping individuals navigate various aspects of life, from personal
relationships to societal responsibilities.
2-Spiritual Fulfillment:
Deen provides a spiritual path that allows individuals to connect
with their Creator, fostering a sense of purpose, inner peace, and
contentment. It offers practices like prayer, fasting, and charity that 19
deepen one's relationship with God.
3-Moral Compass:
Understanding Deen helps individuals develop a strong moral
compass. It offers clear guidelines on what is right and wrong,
promoting honesty, kindness, justice, and compassion in daily life.
4-Community Unanimity:
Deen emphasizes the importance of community and encourages
social cohesion and unanimity. Understanding Deen allows
individuals to engage constructively with others, fostering strong
family bonds, community relationships, and a sense of unity within
the Muslim Ummah (community).
5-Balance in Life:
Deen advocates a balanced way of life, addressing not only
spiritual needs but also physical, emotional, and psychological well-
being. It encourages a harmonious equilibrium between worship, 20
work, family, and leisure.
6-Purpose and Meaning:
Deen provides a sense of purpose and meaning in life by teaching
that every action, no matter how small, can be a form of worship
when done with sincerity and in accordance with God's guidance.
This infuses daily tasks with spiritual significance.
7-Eternal Salvation:
Belief in and understanding of Deen are integral to Muslims' faith in
the afterlife. It teaches about accountability for one's actions and the
hope for eternal salvation through God's mercy and forgiveness.
8-Social Justice:
Deen advocates for social justice, encouraging Muslims to stand up
for the rights of the oppressed, fight against injustice, and contribute
to the welfare of society. Understanding Deen is essential for
addressing social and economic disparities. 21
9-Personal Growth:
Deen promotes personal growth and self-improvement by encouraging
continuous self-reflection and self-correction. It provides tools and practices
to help individuals become better versions of themselves.
10-Resilience:
In times of adversity and hardship, understanding of Deen can provide
strength and resilience. Faith in God's wisdom and plan can help individuals
navigate challenges with patience and trust.
11-Cultural Identity:
Deen is deeply intertwined with the cultural identities of Muslims across the
world. Understanding Deen is crucial for preserving cultural heritage,
fostering a sense of belonging, and passing down traditions to future
generations.
12-Interfaith Dialogue:
Understanding Deen allows for more meaningful and constructive interfaith
dialogue and cooperation, promoting tolerance, respect, and mutual 22
understanding among people of different religious backgrounds.
Quranic Perspective
on Deen

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The Quran, the holy book of Islam, provides a comprehensive
perspective on Deen (the way of life or religion) from the Islamic
viewpoint. It emphasizes the importance of following God's
guidance and submitting to His will in all aspects of life. Here are
some key Quranic verses that shed light on the Quranic
perspective of Deen:
‫ٱۡل إس َٰل ُۗم۔‬
ِ ‫ٱّلل إ‬
َِّ َّ‫إِنَّ ٱلدٌِنَّ ِعند‬
"Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam. (Al-e-Imran; 19)

This verse highlights the Quranic perspective that Islam is the

true religion in the sight of Allah, and it calls for submission to
God's will. 24
 ِ ‫ا إَّلٌ إومَّا إكم إلتَّلـكمإ َّد إٌِنكمإ َّوا إَّتم إمتَّعل إٌكمإ َّنِ إعمتِ إىَّور ِض إٌتَّلـكم إ‬
َّؕ​‫َّاۡل إسَلمَّد إٌِنًا‬

"This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My
favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion.”
(Quran 5:3)

This verse indicates that Islam is a complete and perfected way of

life that encompasses all aspects of human existence.

َّ ‫ٱعبدواَّ ربك إَّم و إٱفعلواَّ إٱلخ إٌرَّ لعلك إَّم ت إف ِلح‬

‫ون‬ ‫ٱسجدواَّ و إ‬
‫ٌ َٰـٰٓأٌُّها ٱلذٌِنَّ ءامنواَّ إٱركعواَّ و إ‬
"O you who have believed, bow and prostrate and worship your
Lord and do good - that you may succeed.“ (Quran 22:77)

This verse underscores the central role of worship and righteous 25

deeds in Deen, emphasizing that they lead to success.
 ِ ‫ونٌَّ َٰـٰٓأ ۟و ِلىَّٱْللب َٰـ‬
َّ‫ب‬ ۟ ‫وتزود‬
ِ ‫واَّف ِإنَّخٌرَّٱلزادَِّٱلتقو َٰىََّّۚوٱتق‬
"And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety,
righteousness). So fear Me, O you of understanding. (Quran 2:197)
َّ‫ى أ إ‬
َّ‫ن أ ِقٌموا‬ َّٰٓ َٰ ‫ى و ِعٌس‬ ََّٰ ‫ِي أ إوح إٌنَّا ٰٓ ِإل إٌكَّ وما وص إٌنا ِب ِهۦٰٓ ِإ إب َٰر ِهٌمَّ وموس‬ َّٰٓ ‫وحا وٱلذ‬ٗ ‫ى ِب ِهۦ ن‬
ََّٰ ‫ٌِن ما وص‬ َِّ ‫شر َّ لكم ِمنَّ ٱلد‬
.َّ‫ِي ِإل إٌ َِّه من ٌنٌِب‬َّٰٓ ‫ً ِإل إٌ َِّه من ٌشا ٰٓءَّ وٌ إهد‬ َّٰٓ ‫ٱلدٌِنَّ وۡلَّ تتفرقواَّ فٌِ ۚ َِّه كبرَّ على إٱلم إش ِر ِكٌنَّ ما ت إدعوه إَّم ِإل إٌ ۚ َِّه ٱّللَّ ٌ إجت ِب‬
"The same religion has He established for you as that which He enjoined on
Noah - the which We have sent by inspiration to thee - and that which We
enjoined on Abraham, Moses, and Jesus: namely, that ye should remain
steadfast in religion, and make no divisions therein: to those who worship
other things than Allah, hard is the [way] to which thou call them. Allah
chooses to Himself those whom He pleases, and guides to Himself those
who turn [to Him].“ (Quran 42:13)

This verse emphasizes the unity and continuity of the same Deen throughout
the prophetic traditions, with the call to remain steadfast and avoid divisions. 26
 َّ‫ٌِن‬
ِ ‫لكمَّدٌِنكمَّو ِلىَّد‬

"For you is your Deen, and for me is my Deen.“ (Quran 109:6)

This verse highlights the Quranic perspective of respecting

religious diversity and the freedom to practice one's Deen.

ِ ‫فمنٌَّكفرَّبِالطاغوتَِّوٌَّؤ ِمنَّبِ ه‬-‫ی‬

َّ‫اّللَّفقدَِّاستمسك‬ َِّ ۚ ‫َّمنَّالغ‬
ِ ‫َّالرشد‬
ُّ ‫َّقدَّتبٌن‬،َّ‫ۡلَّاِكراهَّفِیَّالدٌِ ِن‬
-‫ى‬ َُّۗ ‫العرو ِةَّالوث َٰق‬
‫َّّٰللاَّس ِمٌ ٌعَّع ِلٌ ٌَّم‬‫و ه‬-‫ۡلان ِفصامَّلهَّؕا‬
There is no compulsion in religion, indeed, the righteous path is
well separated from misguidance, so whoever disobeys the devil
and believes in Allah has held a very tight knot which will never be
untied and Allah hears and knows. (Quran 2:256) 27
Hadith and Sunnah's
Perspective on Deen

28
Hadith and Sunnah provide valuable guidance and insights into the concept
of Deen (the way of life or religion) in Islam. They complement the Quran by
offering practical examples and clarifications of how to implement the
teachings of Islam in daily life. Here are some key Hadiths (sayings and
actions of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) and insights from
the Sunnah (Prophetic tradition) regarding Deen:

1-Hadith on the Importance of Deen: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be

upon him) said:
. "َّ‫اء‬ َٰ ‫َّاۡلسَلمَّغ ِرٌبًاَّوسٌعودَّغ ِرٌبًاَّفط‬
ِ ‫وبیَّ ِللغرب‬ ِ ‫َّقالَّقالَّرسولَّّٰللاَِّـَّملسو هيلع هللا ىلصَّـَّ "َّبدأ‬،‫عنَّأبًَِّهرٌرة‬
"Islam began as something strange, and it will return to being strange
as it was in the beginning. So, glad tidings to the strangersَّ‫۔‬
(Sunan Ibn Majah 3986َ‫۔‬Book 36, Hadith 61(

This Hadith highlights that adherence to the Deen might be seen as unusual
29
or different in a society, but those who steadfastly uphold it are blessed.
2-Hadith on the Comprehensive Nature of Deen: The Prophet
Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
"Deen is very easy, and whoever overburdens himself in his Deen
will not be able to continue in that way. So you should not be
extremists, but try to be near perfection and receive the good
tidings that you will be rewarded." (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This Hadith emphasizes the simplicity and balanced nature of Deen,

cautioning against extremism.
3-Hadith on the Importance of Knowledge in Deen: The
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
"Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim." (Ibn Majah)

This Hadith underscores the significance of seeking knowledge as an

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integral part of Deen.
4-Hadith on Honoring One's Word: The Prophet Muhammad
(peace be upon him) said:
"The signs of a hypocrite are three: when he speaks, he lies; when he
makes a promise, he breaks it; and when he is entrusted, he betrays his
trust." (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This Hadith highlights the moral and ethical dimension of Deen,

emphasizing the importance of honesty and trustworthiness.

5-Hadith on the Importance of Good Character: The Prophet

Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The most complete believer in
faith is the one with the best character among them. And the best of you
are those who are best to their women." (Tirmidhi)

This Hadith emphasizes the moral and ethical aspect of Deen, with an 31
emphasis on good character and treating others well.
6-Hadith on Mercy and Compassion in Deen:
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
"He who does not show mercy to the people, Allah does not show mercy
to him." (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This Hadith underscores the importance of compassion and kindness in

practicing Deen.
7-Hadith on Unity in Deen:
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"My Ummah (community) will not unite on misguidance; so if you see

them differing, follow the great majority." (Ibn Majah)
This Hadith emphasizes the importance of unity within the Muslim
community in matters of Deen. 32
 EVALUATION ACTIVITY
1-Define “Deen”.
2-What is the Scope of “Deen” according to Islam?
3- What is the essence of Deen-e-Islam?
4-What is secularism?
5-What are the key differences between Islam and
Secularism?
6-What is “Sharia”?
7-What are the basic sources of “Sharia”?
8- What is the Quranic and Sunnah Perspective on “Deen”? 33
ANY QUESTION

34
THANK YOU

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