Shari`a in the Secular State: Evolving Meanings of Islamic Jurisprudence in Turkey

by Professor Russell Powell

Words in both law and religion can shape power relationships and are often highly disputed. ShariE a lies within the overlap of these two spheres and provides a unique subject for the study of meaning in that liminal space. This book explores historical understandings of ShariE a within the context of religion and secularism in Turkey and then draws on empirical research to analyze Turkish understandings of ShariE a. Many polls indicate that a notable percentage of Turks want ShariE a to be enforced by the state. However, the evidence presented here indicates that Turks seldom consider what implementing ShariE a might mean in terms of its effect on civil law. Hence there is often a disconnect between supporting an adoption of ShariE a and supporting the regulation of everyday behavior through civil codes. Thus, a ShariE aa seems to have taken on new meanings as groups have sought either to appropriate or criticize it. It is a quintessential example of fractured and contextual meaning at the center of both religious and legal tradition."

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Published May 1, 2016