This was a fairly popular question and was attempted by many candidates who performed below average. Some candidates did not get the last two sources and also do not get the two sources correctly. In order to get good grade, candidates were expected to write on the following points:

1.   Shar‘īah literally means a path leading to a watering area. Technically it means the principles and guidelines stipulated by Allah through His Prophet (S.A.W.) to be able to secure His pleasure.
2. Sources of Shar‘īah
   1. The Qur’ān
   2. Hadith/Sunnah
   3. Ijmā‘
   4. Qiyās/Ijtihād.
3. The Qur’ān:
   1. This is the first primary source of Shari‘ah from which other sources derive inspiration.
   2. The Qur’ān was revealed as the last revelation for humankind, sent through Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.).
   3. It is a compendium which summarizes all scriptures before it.
   4. No other book of guidance remains unadulterated as it is.
   5. It separates truth from falsehood.
   6. It provides a code of conduct for every believer.
   7. It contains the words of Allah from the beginning to the end.
   8. The Qur’an contains legislations on virtually all the aspects of human endeavour.

The Hadith/Sunnah:

1. Sunnah is the life and example of the Prophet (S.A.W.).
2. The Sunnah is important as a source of Shari‘ah.
3. The Sunnah is primarily contained in the Hadith or reports of the Prophet’s (S.A.W.) sayings (Qawli), actions ( Fi’l) and his tacit approval (Taqrīr).
4.  It is the second primary source of Shar‘iah and next to the Qur’ān
5. It is the next to be consulted where the Qur’ān is silent in giving details.
6. It never contradicts the Qur’ān in any way unless such a Hadith is not authentic.
7. It contains some legal principles in addition to those of the Qur’ān.
8. It gives clarifications on the application of the laws as contained in the Qur’ān.