Re-evaluating the Status of the Jurisprudential Principle of Prioritization (ʾAhamm va Muhim) in Urban Plans and Projects

The principle of prioritization (ʾAhamm va Muhim) is one of the most useful jurisprudential principles employed in the case of conflicts between two verdicts. Some examples of such conlicts can be found in urban planning and city management, including conflicts among public and individual interests in the establishment of public projects. The present study aims at determining the status of Prioritization principle in urban planning and city management by means of textual content analysis and logical reasoning with a qualitative and inter-disciplinary approach. The study concludes that the precedence of social benefit (Maṣlaḥat) depends on conditions such as being otherworldly, religious, worldly, social and public, and also serving Sharīʿa purposes such as justice and benevolence. Additionally, in order for the more crucial matter to take precedence over the important in urban planning, it is important to pay attention to the planning and design patterns. For instance, plans that are purely technical and physical and economic are to be avoided. It is essential to minimize private property ownership while trying to preserve justice, ensure everyone’s satisfaction, and pay attention to the essentials of Islamic urban planning and the participation of all stakeholders. It is also crucial to take into account the rights of God (Ḥagh Allāh) and People (Ḥagh Al-nās).