Countering Global Terrorism and its Manifestations in Afghanistan: Advancing New Shariah Perspectives

Abstract

Mainstream media tend to associate terrorism and violence with Islam, a claim which needs to be ascertained in the light of evidence. We explain this and show that extremism and terrorism have no religion as such. Next we characterise extremist violence and terrorism and its perpetrators. Is it correct to say that Islam is a religion of peace? We investigate this too and look at the evidence as to what Islam actually stands for. The balance of this article is devoted to an enquiry into the Qur’anic provisions on hirabah (banditry and terrorism) and the ensuing fiqh interpretations on the definition, characteristic features and punishments of this crime, suicide bombing, and a round up of Muslim responses to global terrorism. Our attempt at a fresh interpretation of the Islamic law of hirabah is prompted by new developments in contemporary terrorism so much so that corresponding adjustments in the law of hirabah have become inevitable. The last segment of this presentation puts forward suggestions toward constructing a counter-violence strategy for Afghanistan.