The Ethical Principles of Islam

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The Ethical Principles of Islam

Most religions have similar ethical principles and beliefs on the

value and nature of human life; however this essay will be focusing on

one religion in particular, Islam.

Islam’s main principles about the human life are quite similar to the

other religions, and the fact that life is sacred. This underpins all

issues dealing with medical ethics such as Abortion and Euthanasia.

Muslims believe that all human life is sacred because it is given by

Allah, and that Allah chooses how long each person will live. Human

beings should not interfere in this, which is why Islam would most

definitely favour sanctity of life over quality of life, as the

Islamic view is based on the very high priority the faith gives to the

sanctity of life. The Qur'an states:

"Whosoever has spared the life of a soul, it is as though he has

spared the life of all people. Whosoever has killed a soul, it is as

though he has murdered all of mankind." (Qur'an 5:32)

It is a manifestation of the dignity of man that Islam has placed an

infinite value on human life. This is expressed in the Qur'an in the

following terms:

“We ordained for the children of Israel that if anyone slew a person,

unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land, it

would be as if he slew the whole of mankind. And if anyone saved a

life, it would be as if he saved the life of a whole people.”

(Al-Ma’ida, 5:32)

If Euthanasia is taken as an example, Islam believes human life is a

value to be respected unconditionally, irrespective of other

circumstances. The concept of a life not worthy of living does not

exist in Islam. Justificatio...

... middle of paper ...

... stability and unity in the laws of the universe.

Man being a part of the whole system must also operate justly in the

sphere over which he is given control and power; otherwise, he is

working against the natural laws of the Universe, as well as his own

nature. The result of which can be destruction in the environment.

In conclusion, as with many other religions, Islam has similar

concepts and principals about human life and the environment which are

clearly outlined in Holy Scriptures such as The Qu’ran and may

influence our personal morals and views on ethical issues.

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

1) http://www.islamweb.net

2) http://www.bbc.co.uk

3) http://www.earthisland.org

4) http://www.muhajabah.com

5) The Puzzle of Ethics – Peter Vardy & Paul Grosch

6) Understanding Islam – Duncan Baird Publishers

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