Conclusion: The Sharee`ah (Islaamic law) advises leniency in its proper place and also advises strictness in its proper place. Thus, the Muslims should not ignore that or be lenient when should be strict or vice-versa. Besides, they should not claim that the Sharee`ah acknowledges leniency only or strictness only, for it is a wise code of law that is suitable for every place and time and is capable of reforming the whole Ummah (nation based on one creed). That is why it uses both leniency and strictness. It is marked for justice, wisdom, and tolerance. Hence, it is a tolerant Sharee`ah in its rulings and it does not burden anyone beyond his scope. It is also tolerant, because it begins by calling people with leniency, wisdom and clemency; but when this does not influence people and they overstep the limits and tyrannize, it powerfully and harshly restricts them and treats them in a way that deters them and that enlightens them about their wrongdoings.
Whoever meditates on the biography of the Prophet (peace be upon him), the Rightly-guided Caliphs, his well-pleased Companions, and the succeeding Imams of guidance would perceive the correctness of what we are saying.
Texts that order leniency in its proper place
Among the Aayaat (Qur’aanic verses) revealed on leniency, Allaah (Exalted be He) says: And by the Mercy of Allaah, you dealt with them gently. And had you been severe and harsh-hearted, they would have broken away from about you; so pass over (their faults), and ask (Allaah’s) Forgiveness for them; and consult them in the affairs.
Allaah (Exalted be He) also says: Invite (mankind, O Muhammad صلى الله عليه و سلم) to the Way of your Lord (i.e. Islaam) with wisdom (i.e. with the Divine Revelation and the Qur’aan) and fair preaching, and argue with them in a way that is better.
Texts that order strictness in its proper place
On the other hand, the Aayaat quoted above also include reference to strictness… read more here.