TAZIR Meaning and
Definition
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Tazir is a term derived from Islamic law and is a form of punishment that is at the discretion of a judge or ruling authority. It refers to a category of penalties that are not specifically prescribed in the Islamic legal system, but rather left to the judge's judgment and interpretation. The word "tazir" itself means "to administer punishment" in Arabic.
Unlike hadd punishments, which are fixed and mandatory penalties for specific offenses set by the Islamic legal texts (Quran and Hadith), tazir penalties can vary depending on the circumstances and severity of the crime. Tazir punishments are typically used for offenses that are considered morally sinful or socially harmful, but do not fall under the hadd category.
Examples of tazir punishments can include fines, imprisonment, public humiliation, flogging, or community service. The judge has the authority to determine the appropriate punishment based on factors such as the intent of the offender, the harm caused, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances surrounding the offense. Tazir punishments are subjective and flexible, allowing judges to adapt the penalty to the specific circumstances of each case.
Tazir is primarily applied in countries that follow Islamic legal principles or have a legal system influenced by Islamic law. However, it is important to note that the application of tazir can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another, as interpretations and practices of Islamic law can differ.
Etymology of TAZIR
The word tazir originates from the Arabic language. The etymology of tazir can be traced back to the Arabic root verb ta(z)-zara, which means to punish or to chastise. In Islamic law, tazir refers to discretionary punishment or penalty given by a judge or ruler for offenses that are not explicitly punished by the Quran or Hadith (Islamic scriptures). It is derived from the concept of ta'zir al-mudhoun, which means discretionary punishment for moral offenses.
