Eman Sakina

Ethics and morality stand at the heart of Islam, shaping not only religious rituals but also the social, political, and personal lives of Muslims. Islamic teachings, rooted in the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad, offer a comprehensive moral framework that guides believers toward righteousness, justice, and compassion. Unlike secular moral systems that may separate ethics from faith, Islam integrates spirituality and morality, making ethical conduct a reflection of one’s relationship with God.

Friday Musings

Foundations of Islamic Ethics

The Qur’an

The Qur’an is the ultimate source of ethical principles in Islam. It repeatedly emphasizes the importance of truthfulness, justice, patience, humility, and compassion. Verses encourage believers to uphold honesty, avoid deceit, and act with fairness in all dealings, whether personal or social. Allah says:

“Indeed, Allah commands you to uphold justice, to do good, and to give to relatives; and He forbids immorality, bad conduct, and oppression. He admonishes you so that you may be mindful.” (Surah An-Nahl 16:90)

The Sunnah

The sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad provide practical demonstrations of how to live ethically. His honesty, mercy, and concern for justice earned him the title Al-Amin (the Trustworthy) even before his Prophethood.

Fitrah (Innate Disposition)

Islam teaches that every human is born with a natural inclination toward goodness and truth. This innate sense of morality is nurtured and refined by revelation and religious guidance. The Qur’an reminds:  “So set your face toward the religion, inclining to truth. [Adhere to] the fitrah of Allah upon which He has created [all] people.” (Surah Ar-Rum 30:30)

Ijtihad (Reasoning)

When faced with new moral dilemmas, Islamic scholars employ ijtihad, or reasoned interpretation, to derive ethical rulings consistent with Qur’anic principles and Prophetic traditions.

Core Principles of Islamic Morality

Justice (‘Adl): Justice is central in Islam. Muslims are commanded to uphold justice even against themselves, family, or community. It is seen as a divine attribute of Allah and a moral duty for humanity. The Qur’an commands believers:  “O you who believe! Stand firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even if it be against yourselves, your parents, or relatives…” (Surah An-Nisa 4:135)

Compassion and Mercy (Rahmah) : The Qur’an repeatedly describes God as Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful) and encourages believers to embody mercy in their relationships with others. Kindness to parents, neighbours, orphans, and even animals is emphasized. "And My mercy encompasses all things.” (Surah Al-A‘raf 7:156)

Honesty and Truthfulness (Sidq)

Truthfulness is the foundation of trust in society. Prophet Muhammad declared that dishonesty leads to sin and ultimately to Hell, while truthfulness leads to righteousness and Paradise. The Qur’an declares: “O you who believe! Fear Allah and be with those who are truthful.” (Surah At-Tawbah 9:119)

Modesty (Haya)

Modesty is both an inner and outer quality in Islam, encompassing humility in behaviour, dress, and speech. It reflects respect for oneself and others. “Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their private parts; that is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is All-Aware of what they do. And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their chastity…” (Surah An-Nur 24:30-31)

Accountability (Taqwa and Ihsan)

Believers are reminded that their actions are recorded and will be judged by God. Taqwa (God-consciousness) fosters moral restraint, while Ihsan (excellence) inspires believers to act as though they are always in God’s presence. “So, whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom’s weight of evil will see it.” (Surah Az-Zalzalah 99:7-8)

Application in Daily Life

Islamic ethics is not restricted to worship but permeates all aspects of life. In business, honesty, fairness, and the prohibition of exploitation are emphasized. In family life, respect, patience, and mutual rights strengthen relationships. In society, Muslims are encouraged to help the needy, fight injustice, and uphold communal harmony.

In governance, leaders are reminded to serve with justice, avoid corruption, and prioritize public welfare.

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In today’s rapidly changing world, Islamic ethics offers timeless guidance on modern challenges such as bioethics, environmental responsibility, and social justice. For example, the Qur’an’s teachings on stewardship (khilafah) inspire Muslims to protect the environment, while principles of fairness and equality resonate strongly in discussions on human rights.