Feasibility of Referencing to Principles and Rules of Islamic Jurisprudence in Determining Contracts: A Case Study of Prevalent Disputes

• Published in: پژوهش‌نامه حقوق اسلامی Vol. 25; no. 3; pp. 673 - 710
• Main Authors: Mohammad Mansouri, Mohammad Mahdi al-Sharif, Sayyed Mohammad Sadegh Tabatabaie
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Arabic
• Published: Imam Sadiq University in Iran, Islamic Republic of 01-09-2024
• Subjects: contract description; contract determination; jurisprudential rules; linguistic principles; practical principles
• ISSN: 2251-9858; 2588-6673
• DOI: 10.30497/law.2024.245860.3498

‌ ∴ Introduction ∴ ‌In the realm of contractual disputes where contractual terms are ambiguous or disputed, traditional legal principles often encounter limitations in definitively characterizing the nature of agreements. This challenge prompts the exploration of alternative methodologies rooted in jurisprudential rules and practical principles, particularly within the framework of Islamic jurisprudence [Usul ul-Fiqh]. These principles serve to navigate uncertainties by offering interpretive guidelines in instances where contractual intentions are obscure or contested. The application of these principles becomes pivotal when contractual parties or judicial authorities encounter difficulty in precisely delineating the type of contract under consideration.‌ ∴ Research Question ∴ ‌This study addresses the fundamental inquiry: To what extent can practical principles and jurisprudential rules effectively determine the classification of contracts in the absence of clear contractual terms or in cases of contractual dispute?‌ ∴ Research Hypothesis ∴ ‌The hypothesis posits that practical principles and jurisprudential rules provide a viable framework for resolving contractual ambiguities and disputes by offering interpretive guidance, albeit without the capacity to definitively establish the underlying intentions of contracting parties.‌ ∴ Methodology & Framework, if Applicable ∴ ‌The research methodology employed in this study combines descriptive-analytical and doctrinal approaches. Drawing from extensive library resources encompassing Islamic juristic literature and legal scholarship, the study examines case studies and theoretical analyses to substantiate its findings. The doctrinal method is particularly employed to elucidate the theoretical underpinnings of practical principles and jurisprudential rules in contract law, while the descriptive-analytical approach facilitates an empirical exploration of their application in resolving contractual disputes.     This research assumes that while practical principles and jurisprudential rules are indispensable tools in legal reasoning, they do not serve as determinants of objective reality but rather as interpretive aids aimed at resolving ambiguity. By analyzing their application in various contractual scenarios, the study seeks to establish the circumstances under which these principles can effectively guide judicial decisions and contractual classifications.‌ ∴ Results & Discussion ∴ ‌The application of practical principles and jurisprudential rules in resolving contractual disputes yields nuanced outcomes that underscore their interpretive and guiding roles in Islamic legal contexts. In scenarios where conventional legal methodologies fail to definitively classify contracts, practical principles offer a structured framework for adjudication. For instance, disputes concerning the classification of contracts as sales versus gifts often hinge on the application of oaths and legal principles related to ownership and possession.     Central to the discussion is the principle of 'claimant and denier' in Islamic jurisprudence, which dictates that the party making a positive claim bears the burden of proof. This principle becomes pivotal in disputes where one party asserts a contract as a sale while another contends it as a gift. Through judicial examination and application of practical principles, such as those derived from Usul ul-Fiqh, judges can navigate these complexities by evaluating testimonies and contextualizing legal principles to ascertain the contractual nature.     Moreover, in cases involving leases versus free loans, the principle of respecting property rights and the benefits derived from possessions informs judicial decisions. Here, the possessor's claim to use the property free of charge versus the owner's assertion of a lease agreement highlights the role of practical principles in adjudicating disputes where contractual terms are ambiguous or hotly contested.‌ ∴ Conclusion ∴ ‌In conclusion, the efficacy of practical principles and jurisprudential rules in determining the classification of contracts in Islamic law is evident in their capacity to resolve disputes where contractual intentions are obscure or disputed. While these principles do not provide absolute clarity on the objective reality of contractual arrangements, they serve as indispensable tools for judges and legal scholars in interpreting and applying Islamic legal doctrines.     The study affirms that when traditional methods fail to definitively characterize a contract, practical principles offer a viable alternative for judicial resolution. By leveraging principles rooted in Islamic jurisprudence, judges can navigate complex disputes involving claims of ownership, transfers of property, and contractual obligations. This approach ensures that disputes are adjudicated with due consideration to both legal precedents and the ethical foundations of Islamic law.     Furthermore, the research underscores the importance of contextual analysis and doctrinal interpretation in applying practical principles effectively. By integrating insights from Islamic legal scholarship and jurisprudential analysis, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how practical principles can be harnessed to uphold justice and equity in contractual disputes within Islamic legal frameworks.     Future research in this area could explore case studies across different jurisdictions or delve deeper into specific doctrinal principles to further refine our understanding of their application in contemporary legal contexts. Ultimately, the exploration of practical principles and jurisprudential rules enriches legal discourse by offering nuanced solutions to complex contractual disputes under Islamic law.