Abstract:
The principle of Blocking the Means is one of the outstanding principles of the Sharī‘ah. It aims at preventing an evil before it occurs. This paper studies this principle and explains the rules that ensure its correct application. The paper also views the rulings of reputable scholars across the ages that are based on the principle, explaining the internal and external factors that affected the attitudes of the scholars concerned and their interpretations of the texts in their efforts to protect their societies from expected ills. The paper provides insights to people in position of formulating policies and legislation in their environs and advises them to always be mindful of the dictates of this principle, for it has been rightly said that prevention is better than cure.