LAW 231: Family Law in Islam offers an in-depth exploration of the Islamic legal framework governing family relations, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and inheritance. This course aims to illuminate the foundational principles derived from the Quran, Hadith, and jurisprudential interpretations that guide family matters within an Islamic context. Students will delve into the intricate balance Islam maintains between individual rights and social responsibilities, highlighting the emphasis on compassion, equity, and justice in familial bonds.
The course will critically examine the evolution of Islamic family law across different cultures and epochs, addressing contemporary challenges and debates such as gender equality, marital rights, and the impact of modern legal systems on traditional Islamic jurisprudence. Through a combination of classical texts and modern case studies, students will assess how Muslim-majority countries reconcile religious doctrine with the demands of contemporary society, exploring reform efforts and the role of Ijtihad (independent reasoning) in evolving legal interpretations.
Overall Objectives for this Course:
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Understand the Quranic and Hadith foundations of Islamic family law.
- Analyze the legal rights and obligations of family members in Islam, including spouses, children, and relatives.
- Discuss the jurisprudential mechanisms of marriage contracts, divorce procedures, and inheritance laws.
- Evaluate the impact of cultural practices on the implementation of Islamic family law across different societies.
- Critically examine contemporary challenges to traditional interpretations of Islamic family law, including issues of gender equality and human rights.
- Explore the interface between Islamic family law and international legal standards.
- Investigate reform initiatives and the application of Ijtihad in modernizing family law within Islamic jurisprudence.
- Formulate informed perspectives on the future of family law in Islam, considering both traditional values and modern societal needs.
