Shura
Shura (Arabic: شُورَىٰ, shūrā) is an Arabic word for "consultation". The Quran encourages Muslims to decide their affairs in consultation with each other. The principle of shura can for example take the form of a council or a referendum.
Shura is mentioned as a praiseworthy activity often used in organizing the affairs of a mosque, Islamic organizations, and is a common term involved in naming parliaments.
In the 21st century, some emerging scholars[citation needed] are now advocating the infusion of Shura with digital technology as a means to enhance participatory governance or E-Governance among Muslims for state- and community-building purposes.
Sunni Muslims believe that Islam requires decisions made by the Muslim societies to be made by shura of the Muslim community.[1] Traditionally however, the amir, sultan or caliph would consult with his wazirs (ministers) and make a decision, after taking into consideration their opinions.
Shia Muslims say that Islam requires submission to existing rulers if they are correctly appointed, so long as they govern according to Sharia or Islamic law. This is a more traditional approach, characteristic of many centuries of Islamic history.
The difference between the two appears more semantic than actual—the latter accept that the rulers must be accounted in all aspects of ruling, to ensure affairs are managed in the best possible way whether decisions were taken through consultation or not.
