Islam does not seek to restrict human rights or privileges to a geographical boundary. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, reminded everyone saying: "O mankind you are all the children of Adam and Adam was created from dust."
Islam has laid down some fundamental rights for humanity as a whole, which are to be respected under all circumstances whether a person is at peace with the Islamic state or at war. It opposes all those who exploit, oppress and deal unjustly with people. The Holy Qur'an very clearly states:
"O believers! Be steadfast for the sake of Allah and bear true witness and let not the enmity of a people incite you to do injustice; do justice; that is nearer to piety. Fear Allah, surely, Allah is fully aware of all your actions." Al-Qur'an 5:8
Freedom of choice is laid down in the Qur'an, saying:
"There is no compulsion in religion." Al-Qur'an 2:256
This principle is the basis for establishing universal peace. Islam integrates races and colors and encourages tolerance, friendliness and compassion among humanbeings. This humanitarianism is easily discerned in the general Islamic principles. God says:
"O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other (not that you may despise each other)." Al-Qur'an 49: 13
Islam protects all noble values and human rights. Freedom, equality, justice, and the right to life, liberty, and security of person are of prime concern in Islamic law.
"Whosoever kills a human being for other than manslaughter or corruption in the earth, it shall be as if he had killed all mankind, and whosoever saves the life of one, it shall be as if he had saved the life of all mankind." Al-Qur'an 5:32
Good is the reward for the righteous people in this world and the home of the hereafter will be even better, and splendid will be the home for the righteous
Islam places great emphasis on social justice and does not permit to oppress men, women, children, old people, orphans, the sick or the wounded. Women's honor and chastity are to be respected under all circumstances. The hungry person must be fed, the wounded and sick must be provided medical treatment irrespective of whether they belong to the Muslim community or from among the enemies. Human rights have been granted by God, not by any king or legislative assembly. No legislative assembly or government has the right or authority to amend, change or abrogate the rights conferred by God. These rights include:
- The Security of Life and Property
- The Protection of Honor
- Sanctity and Security of Private Life
- The Security of Personal Freedom
- The Right to Protest Against Tyranny
- Freedom of Expression
- Freedom of association
- Freedom of Conscience and Conviction
- Protection of Religious Sentiments
- Protection from Arbitrary Imprisonment
- The right to Basic Necessities of Life
- Equality before Law — Rulers are not above Law
- The right to participate in the Affairs of State
Hold fast to the rope of Allah all together and be not divided among yourselves
The verdict of the Holy Qur'an is very clear and unequivocal: "Those who do not judge by what God has sent down, they are the disbelievers ... they are the transgressors ...they are the wrong doers." Al-Qur'an 5:44, 46 and 47
What does Islam say about Justice?
Islam stresses the use of justice, even if it be against one's own interest. Here is what the Holy Qur'an says about justice:
O believers! Stand firm for justice and bear true witness for the sake of Allah, even though it be against yourselves, your parents or your relatives. It does not matter whether the party is rich or poor - Allah is the well wisher of both. So let not your selfish desires swerve you from justice. If you distort your testimony or decline to give it, then you should remember that Allah is fully aware of your actions. ." Al-Qur'an 4:135
O believers! Be steadfast for the sake of Allah and bear true witness and let not the enmity of a people incite you to do injustice; do justice; that is nearer to piety. Fear Allah, surely, Allah is fully aware of all your actions. Al-Qur'an 5:8
"...Cooperate with one another in righteousness and piety, and do not cooperate in sin and transgression. Have fear of Allah. Allah is stern in punishment." Al-Qur'an 5:2
Islam stands for peace and peace cannot be achieved without establishing justice. Therefore, Islam requires all Muslims to strive for establishing justice in the land.
Islam commands Muslims to stand up against injustice, oppression, poverty, ignorance, racism, bigotry and intolerance everywhere in the world. Without justice, rights are denied, victims are created, anger gives way to anarchy and extremism in its different forms gains more ground. We have had enough wars, crimes, terror and anger in human history. Now, it is time to identify the root causes and find solutions without partiality and favoritism.
What is Jihad in Islam?
In Islam, peace is the rule while war is the exception. Peace is a preamble to the principle of harmony in the universe, the laws of life and the origin of man, while war is the result of violations of harmony such as injustice, despotism and corruption. Islam eliminates almost all reasons that normally incite war and abolishes all wars for unjust gain and oppression.
Jihad, which is often confused with fighting and war, actually means "to struggle or to strive." Jihad is of three kinds. The first and primary form of Jihad is 'Jihad Alan-Nafs,' the personal struggle against one's own shortcomings. Second is'Jihad Alash-Shaitan,' the struggle against the temptations of Satan. Third is 'Jihad Alal-Kufr,' the struggle against those who do not let the Muslims live in accordance with the Commandments of God (Allah) and the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. Under this category of Jihad Islam allows the fighting in self-defense and in defense of religion or on the part of those who have been expelled forcibly from their homes. Islam condemns fighting which is based on:
- Racism, as contrary to the principles of the oneness of humanity.
- Ambition and exploitation. It does not permit war which aims at capturing markets, acquiring materials or exploiting human labor and resources. In fact, Islam looks at humanity as one big cooperative family and a part of a universal unity. It ordains all believing people to cooperate in realizing universal welfare and in abstaining from doing wrong. Islamic jurisprudence promises all humans absolute equality and justice regardless of race, sex, or creed.
- Ostentation, the purpose of which is to magnify the pride and pomp of kings.
Islam allows fighting as the last resort when human rights are violated, propagation of God's Message to mankind is obstructed and diplomatic solutions have failed to solve these oppressions. Islam lays down strict rules of combat and prohibits harming civilians, monks, priests, nuns, old people, women and young children who are unable to fight. Islam also prohibits destroying the crops, trees, livestock and looting which usually follows conquest:
"Fight in the cause of God with those who fight against you, but do not transgress the limits. God does not like the transgressors." Al-Qur'an 2:190
"If your enemy is inclined towards peace, do make peace with them, and put your trust in God. He is the One Who hears all and knows all." Al-Qur'an 8:61
What is Hijaab (Islamic Dress Code)?
People usually discuss 'hijaab' in the context of women. However, the Qur'an, first mentions hijaab (dress code) for men before hijaab (dress code) for the women:
"Enjoin the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that is chaster for them. Surely, Allah is well aware of their actions."
Then the hijaab for women is mentioned in the next verse:
"Likewise, enjoin the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their modesty; not to display their beauty and ornaments except what normally appears thereof; let them draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their adornment except to their husbands, their fathers, their fathers- in-law, their own sons, their stepsons, their own brothers, their nephews on either brothers' or sisters' sides, their own womenfolk, their own slaves, male attendants who lack sexual desires or small children who have no carnal knowledge of women. Also enjoin them not to strike their feet in order to draw attention to their hidden trinkets. And 0 believers! Turn to Allah in repentance, all of you (about your past mistakes), so that you may attain salvation." Al-Qur'an 24:30-31
Islam requires both men and women to dress simply, modestly, and with dignity. A man must always wear loose and unrevealing clothes from his navel to his knee. This is the absolute minimum covering required. He must never, for example, go out in public wearing shorts that do not meet the minimum requirement. A woman must cover all her body with loose and unrevealing clothes.
When leaving the home she should also cover her hair and body obscuring the details of her body from the public. The wisdom behind this dress code is to minimize sexual enticement and degradation in society as much as possible for both men and women.
In men's clothing and adornment, Islam seriously considers the principles of decency, modesty, chastity and manliness. Any clothing or adornment incompatible with the attainment, maintenance and development of these qualities are prohibited in Islam. Clothing materials, which stimulate arrogance or false pride, are strictly prohibited. This is the reason why Islam warns men not to use certain clothing materials, such as pure silk, and wearing certain adornment, such as gold.
The Islamic dress code applies to both women and men. It sets expectations of moral and respectful interactions between the genders. As a result both men and women are liberated from their baser instincts to focus on higher pursuits. Islamic dress takes on many beautiful forms, reflecting cultural diversity from all over the world.
Islam allows woman to use those things which are forbidden for men but are suitable for the feminine nature. When a girl reaches the age of puberty, she should cover her body except face and hands. The manner in which women should dress, beautify, walk, talk and even look is a very delicate question, and Islam pays special attention to the matter. Islam teaches that the consequences of immodesty fall not only on the individual but also upon the society that permits women and men to mingle freely, display themselves, and compete or allure one another through sexual attraction.
How does Islam view family life?
Family in Islam is the foundation of society. The family provides security and opportunity for the spiritual
and material growth of its members. The family bond entails mutual expectations of rights and obligations that are prescribed by religion, enforced by law, and observed by the family members. Accordingly, the family members share certain mutual commitments. These pertain to identity and provision, inheritance and counsel, affection for the young and security for the aged, and maximization of effort to ensure the family continuity in peace. Children are considered to be the main treasure of the family.
Say: "O my Lord! Forgive, have Mercy; You are the Best of those who show mercy!"
Mutual alliance, clientele, private consent to sexual intimacy, and "common law" or "trial marriages" are not acceptable in Islam. Islam builds the family on solid grounds to provide reasonable continuity, true security, and mature intimacy. Islam recognizes that there is no more natural relationship than that of blood, and no more wholesome pattern of sexual intimacy than one in which morality and gratification are joined.
Islam recognizes the religious virtue, the social necessity, and the moral advantages of marriage. The normal course of behavior for the Muslim individual is to be family oriented and to seek a family of their own. There are many passages in the Qur'an and statements by the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, which go as far as to say that when a Muslim marries, he or she has thereby perfected half of their religion; so let them be God-conscious and careful with the other half.
Muslim scholars have interpreted the Qur'an to mean that marriage is a religious duty, a moral safeguard, and a social commitment. As a religious duty, it must be fulfilled; but like all other duties in Islam, it is enjoined only upon those who are capable of meeting the responsibilities involved.
What is the Status of Women in Islam?
Islam regards man and woman as two components of humanity, one completing the other. Woman is half of humanity and man is the other half. Both play a part in performing the functions of humanity and, in fact, one without the other is incomplete and cannot function properly for the purposes of humanity. Thus, both are complementary as well as supplementary to one another in life. Any program of life ignoring one of these components, man or woman, will be defective and incomplete. Therefore, it is not practical to form a society consisting of only women or only men. They are dependent on each other, man cannot become independent of woman, nor can woman ever live a full and complete life without man. Both need each other, not only for sexual relationship, but also for emotional satisfaction, as well as for companionship.
Seeking knowledge is the obligation of every Muslim, male or female. The type of knowledge that is most emphasized is religious knowledge. It is also required within a society to have professionals of both genders available for the benefit of the public; such as doctors, teachers, counselors, social workers.
In Islam, a woman has the right to own, inherit and dispose of her property as she likes. At the time of marriage dowry given by groom to the bride is for her personal use and she keeps her own family name rather than taking her husband's. She has the right to vote and voice her opinion even in the affairs of government.
God enjoins good conduct toward women from birth to death. Verbal, psychological, emotional, sexual, and physical violence are forbidden, as are false allegations against women's chastity and honor. God has declared in the Holy Qur'an:
"Anyone who does righteous deeds, whether a male or a female - provided he or she is a believer - shall enter paradise and no injustice will be done to them, even to the size of a speck." Al-Qur'an 4:124
What is Marriage in Islam?
In Islam marriage is a simple legal contract between a man and a woman to live together as husband and wife. In this contract either party is free to include conditions. A Muslim girl cannot be forced to marry against her will; parents simply suggest a young man that they think may be suitable for her, and she is free to choose.
Marriage is strongly encouraged and is based on mutual love and respect. It is both a legal agreement and a sacred bond. God has commanded in the Holy Qur'an:
"Get the singles among you married as well as those who are fit for marriage among your male slaves and female slaves. If they are poor, Allah will make them free from want out of His grace: for Allah has boundless resources and is All-Knowing." Al-Qur'an 24:32
"And of His signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves that you may find comfort with them, and He planted love and mercy for each other in your hearts; surely, there are signs in this for those who think about it."Al-Qur'an 30:21
A woman has the same right to own property, earn wealth and spend it as a man has. Her wealth does not become the property of her husband after marriage or divorce. A woman does not have to change her last name as a result of marriage.
Husbands and wives are protectors of each other. They are equal partners and best of friends, remaining faithful to one another. The husband provides, maintains, protects and is responsible for the family. He fulfills his duties with consultation and kindness. If couples are unable to live with' one another peacefully, amicable divorce is permitted as a last resort. Divorce, even though permitted and simple, is not common in Muslim families. In case of divorce mothers are given priority in the custody of young children and the father is required to provide child support.
The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, has said: "The best among the believers is he who is best in manner and kindest to his wife."
Why is 'More than One Wife' permitted in Islam?
Islam is for all societies and for all times to come, therefore, it accommodates various different social requirements. To have more than one wife is neither mandatory nor encouraged, but merely permitted. The reason for permission to marry more than one is compassion and support toward widows and orphans. Even in such a situation, the permission is far more restricted than the normal practice, which existed at the time of the Prophet, peace be upon him, among the Arabs and other people who married as many as ten or more wives.
Dealing justly with one's wives is an obligation. This applies to housing, food, clothing and kind treatment. If one is not sure of being able to deal justly with more than one, the Qur'an says: "Then (marry) only one." Al-Qur'an 4:3
There was no restriction on marriages before this commandment. This commandment puts a restriction on the number of wives even in exceptional cases. The requirement of justice between the wives ruled out the fantasy that a man can have as many wives as he pleases. God-conscious men do not marry more than one if they are unable to do justice between them. That's why more than one wife is an exception among Muslims and not a general rule. Marriage in Islam is a legal contract and it is not valid unless both contracting parties consent to it. Thus no woman can be forced or "given" to a man who is already married against her will.
What does Islam say about Parents and the Elderly?
Islam puts great emphasis on the status and honor of parents and elderly folk. Parents are next only to God Almighty when it comes to respect, obedience and honor. God says in the Qur'an:
"Your Lord has decreed to you that: You shall worship none but Him, and you shall be kind to your parents; if one or both of them live to their old age in your lifetime, you shall not say to them any word of contempt nor repel them and you shall address them in kind words. You shall lower to them your wings of humility and pray: 'O Lord! Bestow on them Your blessings just as they cherished me when I was a little child.' Your Lord knows best what is in your hearts. If you do good deeds, certainly He is most forgiving to those who turn to Him in repentance." Al-Qur'an 17:23-25
God did not give any one a choice to select children or parents. This choice is made by God Himself, therefore, He wants everyone to honor His choice by putting the requirement of obeying the parents immediately after commanding the human being to obey Him. He has commanded the believers to be kind to their parents and make a prayer of forgiveness for their parents, their children and believers at large.
In Islam, there is no room for nursing homes for elderly people. Taking care of the elderly is considered an honor and blessing. Mothers are particularly honored; the Prophet, peace be upon him, said: "Paradise lies under the feet of your mother." Serving one's parents is a duty second only to prayer, and it is their right to expect it. When parents reach old age, Muslims are required to treat them with mercy, kindness and selflessness. All elderly people of the community enjoy the similar respect and honor.
Our Lord! Forgive me and my parents and all believers on the Day when accountability will take place.
Mothers have a special place of honor and respect in Islam. A man once came to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, and asked: "O Messenger of God! Who among the people is most worthy of my good companionship?" The Prophet, peace be upon him, replied: "Your mother." The man then asked who is next, the Prophet, peace be upon him, replied "Your mother." The man repeated the question a third time and got the same answer. The man asked once again, "Who is next? Only then did the Prophet, peace be upon him, said "Your father."
What does Islam say about Food?
Science tells us that whatever one eats, it has an effect on one's behavior. This is one of the reasons that Islam prohibits the eating of carnivorous animals like lion, tiger, leopard, etc. who are violent and ferocious. The consumption of the meat of such animals would probably make a person violent and ferocious. Islam only allows the eating of herbivorous animals like cow, goat, sheep, which are peaceful and docile. The Prophet, peace be upon him, prohibited the eating of wild animals with canine teeth and meat eating carnivorous animals such as lions, tigers, cats, dogs, wolfs, and hyenas and certain rodents like mice, rats, and rabbits with claws. Also reptiles like snakes and alligators. Birds of prey with talons or claws, like vultures, eagle, crows and owl are also prohibited.
Islam requires that in order to maintain a pure heart and a sound mind, to nourish an aspiring soul and a clean healthy body, special attention should be given to the diet on which man lives. The general principle of Islam in this respect is that all those things, which are pure and good for men and women, are lawful, as long as they are taken in moderate quantities. And all those things, which are impure, bad or harmful, are unlawful under all ordinary circumstances. There is always room and flexibility for exceptions to meet cases of absolute necessity.
Beyond this general principle, there are certain foods and drinks specified by God as forbidden. Among these are: meat of dead animals and birds, the flesh of swine and that of any animal which is slaughtered with the invocation of any name other than that of God. The Prophet said: "Your body has rights over you," and at another time he said, "No one is given any gift better than health." Wholesome food and leading a healthy life style are considered religious obligations. The drinks which Islam considers harmful and destructive to the human spirit and morality as well as to the physique are included in the Qur'anic verse which forbids all intoxicants and all forms of gambling or games of chance.
What does Islam say about Intoxicants and Gambling?
In the prohibition of intoxicants and gambling, Islam stands unique among all religions and among all systems.
"O believers! Intoxicants and gambling (games of chance), dedication to stones (paying tribute to idols) and using arrows (for seeking luck or decision) are the filthy works of Satan. Get away from them, so that you may prosper. Satan desires to stir up enmity and hatred between you with intoxicants and gambling, to prevent you from the remembrance of Allah and from Salah (prayers). Will you not abstain? Obey Allah and obey the Messenger and abstain from these things. If you do not, then you should know that Our Messenger's duty is only to convey My message clearly." Al-Qur'an 5:90-92
These vices have ruined innumerable lives, shattered multitudes of homes, and caused more misery to mankind than all other vices put together.
In Islam, drinking alcohol is a serious crime. A drunkard in intoxication is deprived of making the distinction between right and wrong, virtue and vice, good and evil. His actions can result into enmity and hatred, which disturb the peace and tranquillity of the society. Gambling is also a sin which destroys wealth. These moral vices are injurious to the healthy atmosphere of the society.
What Islam says about Business Interaction?
God has provided guidance about all aspects of human life including business interaction. Here is what the Holy Qur'an says about business transactions:
"O believers! When you deal with each other in lending for a fixed period of time, put it in writing. Let a scribe write it down with justice between the parties. The scribe, who is given the gift of literacy by Allah, should not refuse to write; he is under obligation to write. Let him who incurs the liability (debtor) dictate, fearing Allah his Rabb and not diminishing anything from the settlement. If the borrower is mentally unsound or weak or is unable to dictate himself, let the guardian of his interests dictate for him with justice. Let two witnesses from among you bear witness to all such documents, if two men cannot be found, then one man and two women of your choice should bear witness, so that if one of the women forgets anything the other may remind her. The witnesses must not refuse when they are called upon to do so. You must not be averse to writing (your contract) for a future period, whether it is a small matter or big. This action is more just for you in the sight of Allah, because it establishes stronger evidence and is the best way to remove all doubts; but if it is a common commercial transaction concluded on the spot among yourselves, there is no blame on you if you do not put it in writing. You should have witnesses when you make commercial transactions. Let no harm be done to the scribe or witnesses; and if you do so, you shall be guilty of transgression. Fear Allah; it is Allah that teaches you and Allah has knowledge of everything." Al-Qur'an 2:282
