what do muslims believe that the sharia describes
Muslims believe that Sharia, which means "path" or "way" in Arabic, is a divine guidance and a comprehensive set of laws and principles derived from the Quran (the holy book of Islam) and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Sharia encompasses various aspects of life, including personal conduct, family matters, business and commerce, criminal justice, and societal governance.
Muslims believe that Sharia aims to promote justice, fairness, mercy, and compassion. It provides guidelines on how to lead an ethical and moral life, emphasizing the importance of worship, charity, honesty, and respect for others. It also outlines the responsibilities and rights of individuals within various relationships, such as marriage, parenting, and community.
Sharia also includes legal provisions for crimes and punishments, but it is important to note that there are diverse interpretations and applications of these laws across different Muslim-majority countries and communities. Some controversial aspects, such as hudud punishments (severe penalties for crimes like theft or adultery), require stringent evidence and are subject to debates among scholars.
It is worth mentioning that Sharia is not intended to be imposed on non-Muslims or to override the laws of non-Muslim countries. Muslims living as minorities typically abide by the laws of the country they reside in, while following personal religious obligations within the framework allowed by local laws.