[Euthanasia in Muslim law]

Area of Science:

• Islamic jurisprudence
• Medical ethics
• Criminal law

Context:

• Euthanasia and assisted suicide are subjects of evolving philosophical, ethical, and legal discourse.
• Legislative changes in some countries reflect a shift towards accepting these practices.
• The traditional stance in Muslim law on end-of-life decisions requires re-evaluation in light of modern perspectives.

Purpose:

• To analyze the concept of physician responsibility in euthanasia and assisted suicide within the framework of Muslim law.
• To examine how patient consent and physician motivation affect the criminal nature of these acts.
• To reassess the notion of responsibility in euthanasia based on contemporary interpretations of Islamic legal doctrine (Ulemas).

Summary:

• The study explores whether physicians performing euthanasia or assisted suicide can be charged with homicide.
• It investigates the influence of patient consent and physician intent on the legal classification of the act.
• The research revisits the principles of responsibility in Muslim law concerning end-of-life practices, considering modern ethical and legal shifts.

Impact:

• Provides a nuanced understanding of euthanasia and assisted suicide within Islamic legal scholarship.
• Offers a framework for reinterpreting religious legal doctrines in response to contemporary bioethical challenges.
• Contributes to the ongoing global dialogue on end-of-life care and medical ethics from an Islamic legal perspective.