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Abstract

This article examines one of the fundamental objectives of Shariah (Maqasid al-Shariah) using Syed Qutb Shaheed's interpretation in Fi Zilal al-Quran, which is the protection of life (Hifz al-Nafs). The research explores this fundamental principle of Islamic law and its applicability to contemporary society. In his view, Islam as a religion attempts to protect human life through establishing justice, fighting against oppression, and ensures a dignified status to each individual in society. In “Fi Zilal al-Quran,” he outlines the Quranic commands for not killing, committing injustice, or socially exploiting other people and calls to create an ideal society where there is moral and legal life valorization. Syed Qutb states that the Islamic laws such as retributive justice (Qisas) and social aid policies are crucial for protecting the sanctity of life. He is critical of the systems which treat human beings as commodities and warns against the materialistic attitudes towards life which result in the degradation of society. His reasoning corresponds to the general Islamic view of not only issuing each and everyone protection and security, but also dignity and making it their foundational basis for unjust and moral society.
The study concludes that Syed Qutb's interpretation of one objective of Shariah, which emphasizes social justice and divine sovereignty as the pillars of Islamic governance, provides a novel yet practical approach to applying Islamic principles in modern sociopolitical contexts