The principle of considering Ma’alat in Islamic rules: do ends justify means?

Abstract

Exploring Islamic sources, Islamic rules are revealed for the sake of maslaha (well-being) in human life. However, in particular situations, implementing some rules might not achieve maslaha, and might even militate against it. In this regard, considering ma’alat (consequences of action) was suggested by al-Shatibi as a principle for providing exceptions in Islamic rules, either to ban a permitted action or to tolerate a prohibited action for the sake of maslaha. However, this principle could equate to the concept of the ends justifying the means. Thus, this paper aims to analyse the words of al-Shatibi on his idea of considering ma’alat. The findings reveal that, since considering ma’alatis applied at the stage of the implementation of rules, and this process is carried out under the discipline of maqasid al-Shari`a (objective of Islamic law), this principle is not being used to justify the amendment of Islamic rules.