Shariah Objectives (Maqasid) Regarding the Prohibition of Keeping Dogs: An Applied Maqasidic Study

Abstract

This research examines the Sharia objectives (Maqasid) regarding the prohibition of keeping dogs. It clarifies that this prohibition is not merely a formal ban or a ritualistic restriction; rather, it represents a comprehensive legislative wisdom aimed at achieving public interest and safeguarding individuals in both their spiritual and worldly affairs. The significance of this study arises from the increasing trend of keeping dogs in homes for entertainment or decoration, which may conflict with Sharia objectives if legal guidelines are not observed. The study reviews Sharia texts from the Holy Qur’an and the Prophetic Sunnah, highlighting Hadiths that urge against keeping dogs except for legitimate needs, such as hunting, guarding livestock, and security services as an auxiliary factor in crime detection. It also discusses the views of the four schools of jurisprudence (Madhhabs) regarding the degrees of prohibition and dislike. The research concludes that the predominant view is the prohibition of keeping dogs without necessity, based on evidence concerning the decrease in spiritual reward, as well as health, social, and purity (Najasa) concerns. Furthermore, the research focuses on the Sharia objectives derived from this prohibition, namely: the preservation of religion from spiritual obstacles, the preservation of life from diseases and physical harm, the preservation of wealth from waste and damage, and the preservation of society from imitation of others and disorder, while maintaining compassion and rights for animals. Finally, the study addresses contemporary applications of keeping dogs, such as police dogs and guide dogs for the blind. It emphasizes that any acquisition must be limited to actual need, according to the principles of "benefit and harm" (Maslaha and Mafsada), ensuring a balance between utility and public interest without causing harm to individuals or society.