Freedom of belief in the light of Maqasid al-shariah: Special reference to Sri Lanka

Department of Management and Humanities, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, 32610 Bandar Seri Iskandar, Perak, Malaysia

^* Corresponding author: nm.rishad1985@gmail.com

Abstract

Concept of maqasid al-shariah (purposes of Shariah) is being re-interpreted in order to confront modern challenges and questions. This research analyses how the predominant segment of maqasid al-shariah, Protection of Religion, has been interpreted by modern scholars in a conflicting terminology as ‘freedom of belief’ and how they discuss the misapprehended texts which relate to the topic. Research focuses on applying the modern concept of freedom of belief which is one of the universal values, into Muslim majority countries as well as Sri Lanka where Muslims are a minority. A Special consideration has been specified on freedom of belief in Sri Lanka’s constitution and its implementation. Qualitative data, mostly secondary data, has been used in this study. Data were collected from literary books, journal articles and internet sources. This research finds out that Sri Lanka in particular, a number of Muslim minority countries in general are healthier than several Muslim majority countries, especially Middle East countries, in practicing freedom of belief.