خلافت راشدہ میں قانونی اصلاحات اور عدالتی نظام: حکمرانی اور سماجی نظم کا توازن

LEGAL REFORMS AND THE JUDICIAL SYSTEM IN THE RASHIDUN CALIPHATE: BALANCEING RULE OF LAWAND SOCIAL ORDER

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive study of the judicial system and legal reforms during the Rashidun Caliphate, focusing on the balance between governance and social order. The four Rashidun CaliphsAbu Bakr (RA), Umar (RA), Uthman (RA), and Ali (RA)implemented various judicial and legal measures to ensure societal justice, social regulation, and legal equality in accordance with the principles of Sharia.The study begins with an analysis of the governance framework and legal foundations of the Rashidun Caliphate, emphasizing the interrelationship between Sharia, ijtihad (independent legal reasoning), and legislation. It then examines the establishment of the judicial system, the qualifications and ethical standards for judges, and the autonomy of the judiciary. Legal and judicial measures during each Caliph’s tenureincluding apostasy and zakat disputes, institutional reforms, the establishment of diwans, police, and courts, as well as the role of shura and collective ijtihadare explored in detail.The paper further highlights Uthman’s (RA) efforts to standardize the Quran and achieve legal unity, illustrating how this initiative ensured judicial and societal coherence. Provincial administration, the legal management of dissent, and conflict resolution are analyzed to demonstrate how uniformity of law and judicial stability were maintained across diverse regions. Ali’s (RA) period is examined in the context of political crises, the Kharijite revolt, and the practical demonstration of judicial impartiality.The final section connects the judicial principles of the Rashidun Caliphate with modern legal thought. It underscores the relevance of the rule of law, human rights, equality, and judicial protections, offering guiding principles for contemporary Muslim states.This research demonstrates that the legal reforms and judicial practices of the Rashidun Caliphate are historically significant and provide a practical model for today’s legal, judicial, and social systems. The study elucidates principles of justice, equality, impartiality, and social order through the historical experiences of the Caliphate, serving as both a theoretical and practical guide for Islamic law and governance.