The primary objective of this article is to compare some identical principlesin the doctrines of the general philosophy of Islamic law and the values of the common law as known in the western traditions. Islamic law is religious inspirited and regulated and the western law is man-made sets of law. Unlike some areas of Islamic law, the sphere of the common law is subject to constant legal changes. Yet, the mutable nature of Islamic law is debated by Muslim jurists. This paper explores some common values between the legal principles of common Law and the doctrines of the general philosophy of Islamic law. The general philosophy of Islamic law was contrived to facilitate the legal changes in Islamic law in accordance with social changes and yet, unfortunately, Muslim jurists have failed to relate the principles of the general philosophy of Islamic law to the rapidly developing social realities of the modern digital world.

Here’s an enhanced author biography for Dr S.L.M. Rifai (Sulaiman Lebbe Rifai):

📚 Academic Background & Qualifications

• Earned his Ph.D. from SOAS, University of London, specializing in Islamic legal philosophy (Maqāṣid al‑Sharīʿah) (wamdabook.com, researchgate.net).

• Authored a seminal work titled “General Philosophy of Islamic Law: Its Origin, History and Doctrines”, exploring the foundational principles and evolution of Maqāṣid al‑Sharīʿah (researchgate.net).

🌍 Research & Publications

Dr. Rifai has contributed widely across academic and faith-based platforms:

• Author of “Maqāsid al‑Sharīʿah: Origins and Definitions of the General Philosophy of Islamic Law” and numerous papers on Islamic jurisprudence, governance, and education (researchgate.net).

• Explores modern intersections of theology and social issues—e.g., “The Covid‑19 Pandemic: Lessons for Humanity from a Religious Perspective” and “The Muslim Response to Islamophobic Attacks in the West” (furet.com).

📖 Themes & Focus

• Maqāṣid al‑Sharīʿah—understanding the higher objectives and ethical underpinnings of Islamic law, both historically and in modern contexts (researchgate.net).

• Religion & society—investigating how Islamic thought interacts with current challenges like pandemics, multicultural harmony, and rights discourse .

• Community engagement—his writing emphasizes applicable solutions for both Muslim communities and broader human concerns.

🌐 Scholarly Reach & Impact

• His work is featured on platforms like SSRN/ResearchGate, covering topics from Sri Lankan Muslim settlements to Islamic governance and public interest (maslaha) (researchgate.net).

• Books available in multiple formats and languages—e.g., English e‑books exploring COVID‑19 and Islamophobia (furet.com).

✅ Summary

Dr. S.L.M. Rifai is a well-established scholar in Islamic legal philosophy (Maqāṣid al‑Sharīʿah), blending deep academic insight with practical reflections on contemporary societal challenges. Based at SOAS, his diverse writings span classical legal theory, modern jurisprudence, and interfaith/community issues—offering both historical depth and real-world relevance.

If you'd like more details—such as his full publication list, influences, or where to access his writings—just let me know!