Jurist Interpret Sharia

The pattern in the last few decades of this past century was control of the Middle East through oppressive regimes which were meant to keep stability and not necessarily enhance democratic institutions or republican ideals. The West propped up leaders who could do two things at once, keep their populations in order, and keep the oil flowing through the Middle East’s strategic waterways to the West. Saudi Arabia has been a linchpin for the West in this regard. But now, Saudi Arabia could be in danger of a revolution.

The Muslim Brotherhood is calling for a day of rage; the government is arresting Shiite leaders and sending tanks to next door Bahrain to quell their protests. The Saudis have dwelt long in a state that routinely beats and mistreats prisoners, and this may not be in concordance with Sharia law. It is this conflict that may lead to a loss of stability in Saudi Arabia. The strife could be focused on Shiite versus Sunni, but it could also be the people versus the state, or the common man’s interpretation of Sharia versus the court/state's interpretation.

Saudi Arabia the Key to Stability

For years now the Saudis have done what the West needed them to do most; keep the oil flowing one way, while the West sent their money the other way. The Arab leaders could also play their part by using some of their oil income to buy US treasuries. As long as the oil keeps flowing both sides are happy, at least that has been the theory.

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