The basis of all Islamic law is the Qur'an. Islamic law or the Sharia, consists of various rules by which the Islamic world governs itself. In essence "The Sharia contains the rules by which a Muslim society is organized and governed, and it provides the means to resolve conflicts among individuals and between the individual and the state." (Islamic Law-the Sharia) .

             One of the central characteristics of Islamic law is that the teaching and principles of the Qur'an are the foundations of Sharia law. Besides this aspect, there are other sources that are also important; these include the Hadith and Sunna ( ibid) The central point is that no law or its application can be inconsistent with the Qur'an in traditional Islamic law. .

             Though there are other sources of law-i.e., ijma', (consensus), qiyas, (analogy), ijtihad, (progressive reasoning by analogy)-the Qur'an is the first and foremost source, followed by the Hadith and Sunna. Other sources of law and rules of interpretation of the Qur'an and the Hadith and Sunna follow in accordance with a generally accepted jurisprudential scheme. ( ibid) .

             Another important aspect is that Muslim scholars do not see Islam as an "evolving" religion. This means that the legal and ethical principles of Islam do not change with the times but are consistent and permanent for all ages and times. However, as will be discussed, there are many variations of the application of Sharia in the Islamic world. But even these variations are still founded on the one essential binding characteristic of Islamic law – namely, the Qur'an, .

             To understand Islamic Law, one must first understand the principles of Islam and the basic tenets of the religion. The meaning of the word Islam is "submission to Allah's (God's) will." Consequently, Muslims are obligated above all to submit to Allah's will.".

             (What is Islamic Sharia Law?) .

             Sharia as a system of law is practiced widely in the Islamic world.