What are the characteristics of 'illal (criteria) that distinguish them from hikam (benefits)?

The characteristics of 'illal (criteria) and how they distinguish from hikam (benefits) can be understood through the insights provided by Islamic scholarship. In the context of Islamic jurisprudence, 'illal refers to the underlying reasons or criteria that justify a particular ruling or law, while hikam denotes the benefits or wisdom that result from those rulings.

Ibn Kathir, in his commentary, emphasizes that 'illal serve as the foundational principles behind the rulings, providing the rationale for why something is considered permissible or impermissible. In contrast, hikam relate to the outcomes and advantages that arise from following these rulings.

For example, one might consider the law prohibiting certain foods. The 'illa behind this prohibition may involve health concerns or moral reasoning, while the hikmah would encompass the benefits of adhering to dietary laws, such as promoting physical well-being and spiritual purity.

To illustrate further, Allah commands believers regarding the distribution of alms by stating, The alms are only for the poor and the needy 9:60. Here, the 'illa can be understood as the need for social welfare and support for the vulnerable, while the hikmah involves fostering community solidarity and helping those in need.

Thus, the distinction lies in the nature of each concept: 'illal are the criteria that establish the basis for rulings, while hikam are the benefits or wisdom derived from implementing those rulings.