Sami Al-Majed Al-Hayat Social traditions and norms that are based on extreme ideas do not exist in Shariah; however, some people claim that Shariah does sanction such traditions. This group of people tries to convince others that these traditions and norms are part of Shariah and that, therefore, they should be viewed as such. What is worse is that this group tries to force these traditions down other people's throats and make them practice the traditions in the name of Shariah. On the other hand, some people adopt certain traditions that give them more leeway to do certain things and they insist that Shariah sanctions these activities. This group has less hardline thoughts. Let me give you an example of the first group. They say there is nothing in Shariah that permits a suitor to see the woman to whom he is going to propose. The second group, who have freer thoughts, believe such an act is permissible. They even say a woman is not obliged to cover her hair and face in front of her adult male cousin. Both groups got their traditions from their fathers and forefathers then claimed Shariah permits such traditional behavior. The following Qur'anic verse describes the way both groups think and act: “Nay! they say: “We found our fathers following a certain religion, and we do guide ourselves by their footsteps.” (43:22). It is very important to differentiate between those acts permissible by Shariah and the acts that are based on social traditions and norms, not on Shariah. Muslim scholars should speak against both groups. They should explain to people that the acts permissible in Islam outnumber the impermissible acts and that Islam, as a religion, cannot be reduced to permissible and impermissible acts.
