Shari’a Law and Society: Tradition and Change in South Asia

The principles and rules of Shari‘a law as settled by the classical jurists have been traditionally regarded as sacrosanct and immutable. But, under the impact of Western ideas, the South Asian countries have introduced major reforms in the realm of Shari‘a law. The major theme of this study is the debate between traditionalists resisting change and the modernists advocating a liberal interpretation of Islam to harmonize traditional Islamic teachings with the needs of modern society. The study contends that through a creative adaptation of Shari‘a law to the changing needs of society, Islamic values and modernization can be made compatible. It argues that legislations are not in themselves enough-social values and attitudes, awareness of the rights created by law, and easy access to them are no less important.