This attribute is summed up in the Quran in two words — Rahman and Raheem — that envelop the entire universe.

None can claim that the Almighty will be partial to them. Islam frankly recognises that amongst the Muslims (and non-Muslims) there are both persons of deep and sincere faith as well as persons whose faith does not go beyond lip service.

While the interpretations of Sharia vary from one culture to another, in its strictest definition it is the infallible law of God, as opposed to human interpretation of the divine law. There are two primary sources of Sharia: the precepts of Quranic verses and the examples set by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

The introduction of Sharia is a long-standing goal for Islamic movements globally. But attempts to impose Sharia have been accompanied by controversy, violence and even warfare.

The differences between Sharia and secular laws have led to an ongoing controversy about whether the two are compatible.

To recognise what Sharia means we must understand that religion has been a continuous unbroken movement in human history in the quest of a good life and that all great religions owe their inspiration to the same divine source.