A model of benefit-oriented interpretation in the jurisprudence of changing circumstances and new developments
(The political interpretation of religion)
A working paper presented by His Excellency Dr Tawfiq ibn Abd al-Aziz al-Sudairi, Deputy Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance.
Presented at the scholarly symposium held as part of the cultural programme of the Janadriyah Festival on 19/5/1438 AH.
Subject of the research:
This paper reviews the course of contemporary Islamic thought, in the hope of correcting that course and setting our feet on the right path and a sound approach. By a benefit-oriented interpretation of the jurisprudence of changing circumstances and new developments in Islam, we mean an interpretation of Islam through its beneficial and utilitarian effects and its material and non-material outcomes. That is, it interprets the beliefs, acts of worship, transactions and morals prescribed by Islamic law through a perspective which sees religion’s purpose in the utility and benefit resulting from its application. Accordingly, it regards acts of worship devoted exclusively to God, such as prayer and fasting, as nothing more than means and instruments for achieving that end, either in themselves or through the fruits and results that follow from them. It therefore concentrates on highlighting their physical, psychological, health-related, social and other benefits, and making these the basis of the wisdom and objectives of religious legislation.