Fasad/Mufsid fil-Ard
Fasad/Mufsid fil-Ard - Corruption; one who engages in spreading corruption on earth. In Quranic usage, the term means corrupt conditions, caused by unbelievers and unjust people, that threaten social and political well-being. Among jurists, the term signifies the nullity of a legal act that is not valid in the eyes of the law.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: فساد/Mufsid في الأرض (Fasad/Mufsid fil-Ard)
- Turkish: Yeryüzünde fesat/bozgun çıkarmak
Quranic Usage
In the Qur’an, “Fasad fil-Ard” refers to various forms of corruption, both moral and social, that disrupt the harmony and justice intended for earthly life. Verses citing such behavior often link to dishonesty, moral decay, and actions that diverge from divine commandments. For instance, Qur’an 2:11-12 states:
<p>“When it is said to them: ‘Do not cause corruption on the earth,’ they say: ‘We are only reformers.’ Verily, they are the ones who make mischief, but they perceive not.”</p>
Juristic Perspective
Among Islamic jurists, Fasad pertains to the invalidity of certain actions or contracts within Sharia (Islamic law). An act deemed fasid (corrupt) lacks legal recognition and is consequently void. This has far-reaching implications in areas such as trade, marriage, and criminal justice.
Books for Further Studies
- “Islamic Law and Society” by Wael B. Hallaq
- “Shari’a: Theory, Practice, Transformations” by Wael B. Hallaq
- “An Introduction to Islamic Law” by Joseph Schacht
- “The Objectives of Islamic Law” by Abdul-Razzaq Al-Sanhūrī
Takeaways
- Fasad fil-Ard is a critical term within Islamic ethical and legal discourses, denoting acts of corruption that disrupt societal harmony.
- The Qur’an condemns behaviors leading to social destabilization and prescribes punitive measures for those causing such disorders.
- In legal contexts, fasid activities are deemed invalid, reinforcing the perils of engaging in corrupt operations.
Conclusion
Understanding Fasad/Mufsid fil-Ard is essential for comprehending how Islamic theology and jurisprudence approach social harmony and legal integrity. The dual focus on moral ethics and legal formalities underscores Islam’s holistic view of maintaining equilibrium and justice in human societies.