Crime and Punishment in Islam Flashcards
2.1 What are the Muslim teachings abut the nature of justice?
- Appropriate punishment for appropriate crime.
- treating people fairly according to certain laws–> oppression forbidden.
- Should always act justly even if it means testifying against themselves or their loved ones.
2.1 Surah 4: 135 about bringing justice in every situation.
“Uphold justice and bear witness to God, even if t is against yourselves, your parents, or your close relatives.”
2.1 SOW about God being omniscient.
“If you neglect justice, God is fully aware of what you do.”
2.1 What is the importance of justice to Muslims?
- Muslims strive to be fair in their daily lives.
- Shariah law (law based on Qur’an).
- Muslims are judges in the after-life.
- Through Zakah, Muslims bring about justice to the distribution of wealth.
- al’Adl (the Just)- one of Allah’s characteristics.
2.1 Why do Muslims believe justice is important for victims?
- Shows that the law supports victims and crimes are punished.
- If there was no justice, there would be disruption to society.
- Prophet Muhammad was prepared for his own children to be given the appropriate punishment if they were found guilty of a crime.
- Prophet Muhammad was renowned for his fairness.
- Gives closure.
2.1 What are non religious attitudes towards justice?
Many non-religious people, including atheists and humanists, support it because:
- It’s basic human right–> enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
- All humans deserve freedom and respect.
2.1 What are the Muslims responses to the non-religious attitudes?
- they agree
- humans are born with a sense of justice and that the prophets led the way in showing how justice should be served.
2.2 What is crime in Islam.
- An act that is against the law.
- In Islam, there are 3 categories of crimes.
2.2 What is Hudud?
Crimes against God, which have a fixed punishment.
2.2 What is Qisas?
Crimes against individuals or families, where the victim’s nearest relatives are able to choose their preferred punishment.
2.2 What is Ta’zir?
Crimes for which punishment is not stated in the Qur’an or the Hadith, and is therefore left to the discretion of a qadi (Muslim judge).
2.2 What are the causes of crime?
Socialization, labelling theory/ stereotyping, lack of opportunity and subculture.
2.2 Describe socialization as a cause of crime.
Difficulties in conforming in society’s norms, because of poor parenting or a troubled family life.
2.2 Describe labelling theory/ stereotyping as a cause of crime.
Prejudice against people from a particular social or racial background, forcing them into isolation and eventually crime.
2.2 Describe lack of opportunity as a cause of crime.
Lack of suitable job opportunities. People believe they are entitled to jobs but are denied them.
