The Role of Islamic Jurisprudence in Promoting a Culture of Rational Use of Medicines
Key words: Islamic jurisprudence, Hanafi Fiqah, rational use, preservation of life, prevention of harm, medical ethics
Hamidullah Nail
Abstract
Islamic jurisprudence, as a comprehensive and strategic system, encompasses all dimensions of human life, including physical and mental health. One of the most significant areas of interaction between Islamic law and medicine is the formulation of principles governing the rational use of medications. Irrational, excessive, or uninformed drug consumption may conflict with the overarching objectives of the Sharia—namely the preservation of life, prevention of harm, and protection of human welfare. Using an analytical–descriptive method and relying on library-based sources, this study examines the question: “What role does Islamic jurisprudence—particularly the jurisprudence of Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jama‘ah —play in promoting a culture of rational drug use? The research hypothesis posits that Islamic jurisprudence, through fundamental legal maxims such as necessity, no-harm, removal of hardship, and preservation of life, provides a coherent framework for regulating medication-related behavior among Muslims. The findings indicate that this jurisprudential framework not only aligns with the principles of modern medical science but can also prevent excessive medication use, dangerous self-treatment, and drug misuse. Ultimately, the study concludes that proper integration of jurisprudential principles with medical practice offers significant potential for fostering a health-oriented culture and enhancing rational drug-use patterns in contemporary Muslim societies.
