The Rule of Law
Mohamedarif Mohamed Suleman (Dar es Salaam, Tanzania) is a digital marketing specialist and an Educator-cum-Trainer. He has involved himself in community organisations and matters from a young age, and through his writings, continues to speak of social and cultural reform to this day. He is also the founding moderator of this forum.
The Rule of Law Matters, even if it’s out of reach. The concept of the rule of law – a society governed by clear, public laws consistently applied – is a cornerstone of many a political philosophy. Yet, the reality can be far messier. Laws may be unclear, inconsistently enforced, or even non-existent. Does this then render the ideal irrelevant? Surprisingly, even in its absence, the rule of law holds significant value.
Consider the social contract theory, as laid out by thinkers like Thomas Hobbes and John Locke. Imagine a world without any rules – a state of nature. It would likely be chaotic and dangerous, with individuals constantly worried about being wronged. The rule of law emerges as a solution, a set of guidelines we agree to follow in exchange for the benefits of a stable society. Even if the ideal isn’t fully realised, the aspiration towards clear and consistent laws creates a framework for navigating this social contract. People have a baseline expectation of how things should work, even if the reality falls short.
This brings us to the concept of legal predictability, championed by legal scholar Friedrich Hayek. Hayek argued that individuals need to be able to predict the consequences of their actions. Even an imperfect rule of law offers a degree of this predictability. Businesses can make sound investments knowing there’s a framework for contracts and property rights. Citizens can plan their lives with some assurance that their actions won’t be judged arbitrarily. This predictability, even if limited, fosters economic growth and social stability.
Furthermore, the rule of law acts as a check on power. Even a leader with absolute authority might hesitate to act too capriciously if there’s a legal system – or at least the idea of one – in place. The very existence of codified laws, even if poorly enforced, creates a space for dissent and challenges to arbitrary power. It reminds everyone, including those in power, that there are some boundaries, even if those boundaries are currently porous.
Looking at history, societies that have strived for the rule of law, even imperfectly, have often reaped the benefits. Ancient Rome, for instance, with its developed legal code, facilitated trade and fostered a vibrant civilisation. Conversely, the lack of a clear legal framework can be disastrous. Feudal systems, with their dependence on the whims of local lords, often resulted in economic stagnation and social unrest.
Of course, the rule of law is not a panacea. Laws can be unjust or poorly written, and enforcement can be uneven. However, the ideal itself serves as a guiding principle, a direction to strive towards. It reminds us that a society should be governed by reason and fairness, not by the whims of the powerful. Even as we acknowledge the imperfections of the present system, the concept of the rule of law serves as a beacon, urging us to create a world where everyone is subject to the same set of clear and consistent rules.
The rule of law, even when out of reach, remains a vital concept. It fosters predictability, checks arbitrary power, and provides a framework for a just society. As we navigate the complexities of the real world, the ideal of the rule of law serves as a North Star, reminding us of the kind of society we should strive to build.
The concept of the rule of law explored above finds resonance within the framework of Islamic law. As Muslims, we believe that Allah (SWT), the Almighty, has laid out a comprehensive system of guidance for humanity in the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This guidance, known as Sharia, encompasses legal principles that govern various aspects of life.
Similar to the social contract theory, Islamic law is seen as a divine covenant between Allah (SWT) and humankind. By following Sharia, individuals contribute to a just and harmonious society, fulfilling their obligations to Allah (SWT) and one another. The clarity and consistency of Sharia provide a framework for this social contract, promoting stability and predictability.
Within Sharia, the concept of “adl” (justice) holds a central place. Islamic law strives to ensure fairness for all, regardless of social status. This aligns with the idea of the rule of law checking arbitrary power. A ruler, even a Caliph, is ultimately subject to Sharia and cannot act outside its boundaries. This emphasis on justice and fairness resonates with the notion of the rule of law as a safeguard against tyranny.
The wisdom of Allah (SWT) in establishing Sharia is multifaceted. Laws promoting social welfare, like those concerning charity (Zakat) and fair trade, contribute to a more equitable society. Additionally, Sharia emphasises personal responsibility, encouraging individuals to act with integrity and compassion. This aligns with the idea of a just society envisioned by the rule of law.
Of course, the application of Islamic law in the real world has faced challenges throughout history. Interpretations of Sharia can vary, and enforcement can be uneven. However, the idea of a divinely ordained legal system, emphasising justice and fairness, serves as a constant reminder of the importance of the rule of law.
Islamic law, with its emphasis on clarity, justice, and social responsibility, reflects the core values of the rule of law. While the realities of human governance may fall short, the aspiration towards a society governed by just and consistent laws, ultimately derived from the wisdom of Allah (SWT), serves as a guiding light for Muslims and offers valuable insights for all who seek a world governed by fairness and order.
More from this author
Social Media and Influencer Culture – a boon or a bane?
Writers Panel | A Simple Thought | Obituaries | Ziarat Ashura | Islamic Calendar | Facebook
