The Objective of Religion: Mercy and Public Benefit

The primary objective of religion is to serve as a mercy to all of mankind. In the philosophy of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), this concept is known as taḥqīq al-maṣaliḥ, or the realization of public interest and general welfare. This foundational purpose is explicitly stated in the Qur'an, where Allah declares:

"And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds." (Qur'an, Al-Anbiya 21:107).

Religion as a Guideline: The Principle of Doing No Harm

Beyond serving as a mercy, religion acts as a definitive guide for human life. One of the core guidelines it provides is the strict prohibition of causing harm to oneself or others. This principle is firmly rooted in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

In a hadith narrated by Ibn 'Abbas, the Prophet (ﷺ) stated: "There should be neither harming nor reciprocating harm"(Narrated by Malik and Ahmad). This essential teaching has been further crystalised into a fundamental maxim of fiqh: "Harm must be eliminated" (al-ḍararu yuzāl).

Fundamental Principles in Practicing Religion

When it comes to the practical implementation of religious duties, Islam is built upon three essential pillars:

1. The Principle of Ease (Al-Taisīr)

Islam is designed to be accessible and manageable. The principle of facilitation is emphasised throughout the Qur'an and Sunnah. Allah states, "Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship" (Qur'an, Al-Baqarah 2:185).

Similarly, the Prophet (ﷺ) instructed his companions, "Make things easy and do not make them difficult, give glad tidings and do not alienate people" (Narrated by al-Bukhari and Muslim).

In Islamic jurisprudence, this is encapsulated in the well-known maxim: "Hardship begets facility."

2. The Principle of Capability

Religious obligations are always proportionate to an individual's capacity; Islam does not demand the impossible.

This is reinforced in the Qur'an: "Allah does not charge a soul except [with that within] its capacity" (Qur'an, Al-Baqarah 2:286)

and "So fear Allah as much as you are able" (Qur'an, At-Taghabun 64:16).

Furthermore, the Prophet (ﷺ) advised, "...and if I command you to do something, do of it as much as you can" (Agreed Upon).

3. A Comprehensive Approach to the Sunnah

Finally, in interpreting and applying the Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ), the approach should not be overly rigid or strictly literal. A holistic implementation requires integrating three epistemological elements:

  • Bayani (textual and linguistic analysis)

  • Burhani (rational and empirical context)

  • Irfani (spiritual and ethical insight)

By combining these elements, Muslims ensure that their religious practices remain relevant, profoundly meaningful, and true to their original intent—even in times of crisis or modern challenges.