The Balance between the Sanctity of Privacy and Social Relations: An Islamic Study

Abstract

One of the most debatable human issues in the world is ‘Privacy’ today. Its first definition appeared in 1890 and the experts have different opinions about that. In contrast, Islam has set its inclusive limitations fourteen hundred years ago.  Due to the modern technologies and digital age, its importance has increased many folds along with strong social relations. This research article investigates that the sanctity of privacy is not competing social relations, rather both can coexist by drawing legal Islamic lines between them. Furthermore, it will highlight Quranic Verses, Prophetic traditions and some quotes from the Islamic legendary practices regarding balancing between the sanctity of privacy and social relations. The beauty of Islam manifests in recognition of this human right, but within the boundaries of Shariah. The study identifies nine dimensions of the sanctity of privacy; Privacy of the home, confidentiality of secrets, personhood integrity, meetings and assemblies, regarding personal faults, privacy in personal decision-making, in correspondence, in consultation, and marital privacy.  The research further demonstrates that Islamic legal system is comprehensively sufficient to ensure privacy and sets framework for new issues like social media, digital communications, mobile phones, medical confidentiality, electronic records, online meetings and workplace activities. It is expected that keeping in view these Islamic principles, social relations can be harmonized with the sanctity of privacy.