DNA Technology and Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah: Establishing Halal and Tayyib Compliance
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58932/MULJ0011Keywords:
DNA, technological breakthroughs, forensic applications, ḥifsu-n-nasl, stakeholdersAbstract
By leveraging their social and intellectual development, humans have unlocked novel ways to exploit the resources of the universe, resulting in cutting-edge technologies that, while improving daily life, often repudiate the purposes of the religion (Maqāṣidu-sh-Sharīcah). Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA), autopsy, Human cloning, IVF, surrogacy, biotechnology, autonomous vehicles are prominent instances of these latest technological breakthroughs. The discovery of DNA by Swiss chemist Friedrich Miescher in the late 1860s paved the way for innovative medical and forensic applications. Moreover, the integration of DNA can pointedly contribute to the attainment of the fundamental purposes of Islamic law which include protection of religion (ḥifsu-d-Dīn), human life (ḥifsu-n-nafs), mental faculties (ḥifsul cAql), dignity (ḥifsu- cirḍ), progeny (ḥifsu-n-nasl) and property (ḥifsul-māl). This article explores the viability of DNA technology integration, while also delving into the varied opinions of Muslim scholars, some of whom contend that the susceptibility of DNA to errors impedes absolute reliance. While protecting the fundamentals and classical aspects of Islam, Muslim scholars should not categorically decline modern trends simply because they are modern. Rather, they should observe areas where they can use these trends to promote a deeper understanding of Islam. More importantly, they should be among the active stakeholders of these modern developments to clearly outline the religious boundaries.
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