Eman Sakina

Justice (Adl) and fairness are fundamental values in Islam, deeply embedded in the Qur'an and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. Islam considers justice not only as a societal need but as a divine command. Muslims are instructed to be just in all their dealings with themselves, others, and even enemies. Fairness is not limited to the courtroom but extends to every aspect of life, including personal behaviour, family relationships, business, and governance.

Friday Musings

The Quran repeatedly affirms that justice is an obligation imposed by Allah upon all human beings. It is not to be swayed by personal interest, emotional bias, or social affiliations. The following verse encapsulates this divine command clearly:

"Indeed, Allah commands you to render trust to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice. Excellent is that which Allah instructs you. Indeed, Allah is ever Hearing and Seeing." (Surah An-Nisa 4:58)

Here, justice is equated with fulfilling trust and judging equitably, reminding believers that every decision must be grounded in fairness. Allah, being All-Seeing and All-Knowing, holds people accountable for how they uphold justice.

One of the unique aspects of Quranic justice is its universal application. It is not restricted to Muslims or specific communities but applies equally to all human beings, regardless of race, religion, or social class.

"O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives." (Surah An-Nisa 4:135)

This powerful verse highlights the impartiality required in administering justice. It must be upheld even if it conflicts with personal interests or close familial ties. This form of moral courage is a cornerstone of Islamic ethics.

The Quran encourages believers to be fair in all interactions—economic, social, or legal. Fairness (‘Qist’) in trade, dealings, and interpersonal behaviour is repeatedly stressed:

"And give full measure and weight in justice. We do not burden any soul beyond its capacity. And when you speak, be just, even if it concerns a close relative..." (Surah Al-An’am 6:152)

Justice is not just about courtrooms or disputes—it extends to everyday life, including business, family matters, and communication.

In Islamic theology, Allah is the ultimate source and model of justice. His actions are always just, and His judgments are free from error or bias. The Quran states:

"Indeed, Allah does not do injustice, [even] as much as an atom's weight; while if there is a good deed, He multiplies it and gives from Himself a great reward." (Surah An-Nisa 4:40)

Allah’s perfect justice ensures that no good deed goes unnoticed, and no wrongdoing is ignored. This instills both hope and accountability in the hearts of believers.

The Quran indicates that the purpose of sending prophets and scriptures was to establish justice on earth:

"We sent Our messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Book and the Balance so that people may uphold justice..." (Surah Al-Hadid 57:25)

This verse connects divine revelation directly with social justice. Prophets were not just spiritual guides; they were reformers who worked to ensure fairness in society through divine guidance.

The Quran maintains a balance between justice and mercy. While it prescribes punishments for certain crimes, it also encourages forgiveness when appropriate:

"And the recompense of an evil deed is evil like it, but whoever pardons and makes reconciliation – his reward is [due] from Allah. Indeed, He does not like wrongdoers." (Surah Ash-Shura 42:40)

Here, justice is not blind vengeance. It allows space for mercy and reconciliation, acknowledging the complexities of human nature.

Rulers and leaders are particularly urged to be just. The Quran praises just governance and holds it as a high virtue:

"Indeed, Allah commands justice and good conduct and giving to relatives and forbids immorality and bad conduct and oppression..." (Surah An-Nahl 16:90)

This verse is often quoted in Friday sermons due to its deep impact—it promotes justice as a foundation for ethical governance and harmonious society.

Ultimate justice, according to the Quran, will be established on the Day of Judgment. Every soul will be judged fairly based on their deeds:

"And We place the scales of justice for the Day of Resurrection, so no soul will be treated unjustly at all..." (Surah Al-Anbiya 21:47)

This belief reinforces the moral compass of Muslims, reminding them that even if worldly justice fails, divine justice will prevail in the Hereafter.

The Quranic vision of justice and fairness transcends time and place. It is a call to uphold truth, act with integrity, and defend the rights of all individuals. Whether in personal dealings, legal matters, or social governance, the Quran sets a standard that is both divine and humane.

In a world beset with inequality, corruption, and injustice, the Quran offers a timeless and universal framework for justice—one rooted in accountability to the Creator and compassion toward creation. Upholding justice, as prescribed in the Quran, is not just a civic duty—it is an act of worship and a means to attain nearness to Allah. 

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"O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice..." (Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:8)

May we all strive to live by this divine command.