From Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Islamic Republic of lran.
Abstract: (4154 Views)
Islamic medical jurisprudence, which is the subjectconcemed with the application
of Islamic laws to the area of medicine, has never been discussed as an independent
field of jurisprudence, although several selected topics, especially those concerning
food and beverages, sexuality, death, wounds and injuries, and doctor-patient
relations have been more discussed than others. The results of an investigation on the
Islamic medical jurisprudence characterized on the basis of practicing Ijtihad are
presented. A survey on the Imamate (Shiite) jurisprudence was conducted through
the works of prominent Shiite jurists from 4th- lath century to the present time. The
concept and methodology of practising Ijtihad is clarified and the authoritative
sources of the Islamic law: The Qur'an, the Sunna, the Ijma' (consensus), and the ' Aql
(reasoning) are discussed. The paper further highlights the value of human life in
Islam holding reference to the topics discussed in the Imamate works which proves
the existence of a body of medical jurisprudence that enjoys comprehensiveness,
penetration, and flexibility. In addition, the specifications of the Islamic medical
jurisprudence characterized by the organic connection between the reasoning and
divine law, negation of foreign dominance, observation of public benefit, actualization
of public responsibility, existence of flexible overriding rules, and the discretionary
authority of the jurist are elaborated. The Shiite jurists' views to medical issues prove
that pragmatism prevails and the aim is to seek a compromise between Islamic
heritage and the achievements of modern medicine, as long as basic I slamic dogma
is not violated.