What is Fiqh in Islam?

Fiqh in Islam is the understanding of Islamic laws and rulings based on the Qur’an and the Sunnah. It explains how Muslims should practice Islam in daily life, such as prayer, fasting, charity, and transactions.

Introduction

Fiqh (الفقه) is one of the most important disciplines in Islam. This text explains both its linguistic and religious meanings, citing evidence from the Quran and Hadith to demonstrate the connection between Fiqh and faith (Iman), and to show the categorization of religious precepts that encompass all aspects of human life. — This article retains the Arabic and Thai languages ​​for accuracy and ease of reference.

1. Definition of Fiqh (meaning)

• Language / لغوياً : فقه → “Understanding” (root meaning) — For example: فقه يفقه ⇄ فهم يفهم
  — Quoting a short verse (yah) for explanation (example in the given text).
• Islamic jurisprudence (شرعياً ): Fiqh has two main dimensions:
  1. Knowing the rulings (hukm) of religious law concerning the actions and words of those who have reached religious maturity — based on the following sources: the Quran, Sunnah, Ijma’, Ijtihad.
  2. (Explain, for example, the intention: إنَّما الأعمال بالنيات — the hadith cited as the primary source)

2. Evidence from the Quran and Hadith (Selected evidences)

• For example, here are some verses that illustrate the principle of “simplicity/convenience” in religion:
  • The talisman of the talisman is the talisman of the talisman and the talisman of the talisman. (Al-Baqarah 185)
  • لا يُكَلِّفُ اللَّهُ نَفْسًا إِلَّا وُسْعَهَا (Al-Baqarah 286)
• Hadith: إِنَّ الدِّينَ يُسْرٌ (reported by Bukhari) — To affirm the principle of flexibility and mercy in Islamic law.

Note: Readers should refer to translated versions or commentaries for further academic references.

3. Practical examples demonstrating the simplicity of religion.

• Standing/sitting/lying down during prayer (صَلِّ قَائِماً… ) — A Hadith explaining the leniency.
• Shortening and combining prayers during travel (وإذا ضربتم فى الأرض…)
• Other topics mentioned in the content: Compliance with regulations and leniency.

4. The relationship between Fiqh and Iman (Iman = faith)

• Note: Religious precepts (hukm) are tied to faith — having iman makes actions voluntary and steadfast.
• Example verses that connect practice and faith (such as Al-Nnaml, Al-Baqarah, which are cited in the text).

5. Categories of Fiqh (Summary of 7 categories based on the provided content)

1. Ibadat (العبادات) — acts of worship, such as prayer (Salat), Zakat (charity), and Hajj.
2. Ahwal Ash-Shakhsiyyah — Family, Inheritance, Marriage
3. Muamalat — Transactions, Commerce, Civil Law
4. Administrative law / Governance based on religious principles
5. The Uqbat — An Islamic punishment.
6. Ashir — International relations/military forces (state of war/peace)
7. Al-Adab wa al-Akhlaq — Ethics and Manners

6. Conclusion/Analysis

The teaching of Fiqh should include both Arabic and explanations in the local language for accurate and in-depth understanding.

Fiqh is not just a set of laws, but a system of life intertwined with faith and spiritual values.

The content provided demonstrates two important dimensions of Fiqh:

(1) intellect/linguistic understanding and

(2) religious practice based on evidence.