The Levels of Interests and Harms and their Classifications according to Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyya (A Theoretical and Applied Study)

Abstract

#This study focuses on elucidating the benefits and harms, their varying degrees, and the divisions made by scholars into numerous and diverse categories based on different considerations. This classification is built upon deducing the levels of benefits and harms and understanding these divisions and types is of utmost importance, especially for those entrusted with the task of balancing conflicting and competing interests and harms. The study consists of three sections discussing these classifications and types, comparing the divisions mentioned by scholars of Islamic legal principles with the views of Ibn al-Qayyim in this regard. The study arrives at a conclusion regarding this balancing act. It highlights the role of scholars in serving the sciences of Sharia law, bringing them closer through the collection of fragmented details and linking their branches to general principles. Among those scholars is Imam Ibn al-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, whose moderate and balanced approach is evident through the study. His firm grounding in the sciences of Sharia law and the objectives of its rulings, as well as his agreement with the scholars of the Ummah in various divisions and levels of benefits and harms, demonstrate the precision of his insight and the breadth of his knowledge in understanding benefits, harms, their levels, and the methodology of balancing between them.