<h3>What is Shariah?</h3><p><strong>Shariah</strong> means the path or way of life that God has revealed to guide Muslims. It covers both <strong>Ibadah</strong> (acts of worship) and <strong>Muamalat</strong> (dealings with other people).</p><h3>Sources of Shariah</h3><ul><li><strong>The Quran</strong> – the primary source.</li><li><strong>The Sunnah</strong> – the teachings and example of the Prophet.</li><li><strong>Ijma</strong> – the agreement of qualified scholars.</li><li><strong>Qiyas</strong> – careful reasoning by comparison when no direct text exists.</li></ul><h3>The goals of Shariah</h3><p>Shariah aims to protect five essentials: <strong>faith, life, intellect, family and property</strong>. Its purpose is to bring about justice, mercy and the well-being of people.</p><div class="callout"><strong>Kenyan context:</strong> The principle of protecting property under Shariah is reflected in everyday honesty — for example, an M-Pesa agent in Nakuru who returns money sent to the wrong number is upholding the same value of safeguarding others' wealth. Kadhi courts in Kenya, recognised in the Constitution, apply aspects of Islamic personal law for matters such as marriage and inheritance among Muslims.</div>