ḤAQQU ʾLLĀH (حق الله)
Definition
ḤAQQU ʾLLĀH (حق الله), translating to “the right of God,” encompasses duties and obligations that are considered owed directly to Allah (God) by individuals. These duties serve to uphold the divine justice and moral order as established in Islamic law and theology.
Etymology
- Arabic: ḤAQQU ʾLLĀH (حق الله)
- Translation: “The Right of God”
Legal Implications
In Islamic law, Ḥaqu ʾllāh refers to the duties and prohibitions that safeguard communal welfare and uphold divine justice. This includes retributive measures a magistrate is expected to take against crimes and offenses that threaten societal morality and religious sanctity. These may include, but are not limited to:
- Theft
- Adultery
- Drunkenness
- Apostasy
Theological Implications
Theologically, Ḥaqu ʾllāh pertains to direct obligations toward God, distinguished from duties owed to other people (Ḥaquq al-ʿIbād - حقوق العباد). These include fundamental pillars and acts of worship:
- Prayer (Salat): Regular, performed five times a day, serving as the central practice of worship.
- Almsgiving (Zakat): Obligatory charitable giving, aiding in economic equity and welfare.
- Fasting (Sawm): Observed during the month of Ramadan, fostering self-discipline and empathy.
- Pilgrimage (Hajj): Mandatory for those who are financially and physically capable, symbolizing unity and devotion.
Books for Further Studies
- “Islamic Jurisprudence: An International Perspective” by Brian Z. Tamanaha
- “Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence” by Mohammad Hashim Kamali
- “Introduction to Islamic Theology and Law” by Ignaz Goldziher
- “Islamic Philosophy, Science, Culture, and Religion: Studies in Honor of Dimitri Gutas” by Felicitas Opwis
Takeaways and Conclusion
Understanding Ḥaqu ʾllāh is essential for comprehending how Islamic law and theology permeate facets of personal spirituality and societal governance. Balancing the duties owed to God with those owed to humankind forms a bedrock of Islamic ethics, ensuring that both divine justice and communal harmony are maintained.
By observing these religious duties, Muslims fulfill their obligations to Allah, reinforcing their faith and commitment to upholding moral and legal standards within their communities.
