Attitudes to punishment

Question 1

What do Muslims teach about crimes and their punishment?

Answer 1

Muslims should not commit crimes because any crime is a sin against God. Those who commit crimes will not only be punished by law, but will also face the judgement of God on the Last Day

Question 2

What does the Qur’an say in terms of punishment?

Answer 2

sets down specific punishments for certain crimes - hadd punishments - includes whipping, amputation and death
for crimes such as theft, false accusations and wrong sexual relations

Question 3

what limits the application of hadd punishments?

Answer 3

strict requirements for evidence

Question 4

how can hadd punishments be avoided?

Answer 4

compensation can replace hadd punishments if both parties agree

Question 5

How do the punishments in Muslim counties operate?

Answer 5

most similar to those of Europe- Situation Ethics
some countries such as Saudi Arabia and other areas under Salafi control apply hadd punishments

Question 6

Why is punishment important?

Answer 6

• justice (punishment must be proportional to crime)
• necessary for society to operate - people need to obey laws and avoid chaos - fair for everybody, not just strong

Question 7

SofA for punishment

Answer 7

• Surah 5: ‘As to the thief, male or female, cut off his hands’ - suggests deterrence
• Surah 42: ‘The response for an injury is an equal injury in return; but if a person forgives, their reward is due from God’ - suggests forgiveness of superior