The Tale of Prophet Salih and a Call for Justice
Prophet Salih was sent to a people who had been granted the bounties of Allah but had forsaken justice in their dealings. The Quran recounts how they failed to conduct their business and trade affairs with justice. Their transgressions called forth divine retribution - earthquakes, ominous darkness, and a piercing scream that culminated in their demise within the comfort of their homes.
But it is not only these vivid narratives that emphasize the gravity of justice; Surah Al-Mutaffifin (Surah 83) extends this call for justice. In this Surah, Allah condemns those who commit injustice in their business dealings by shortchanging others and manipulating measurements. The text underscores the gravity of this wrongdoing, stating that such individuals will face severe consequences in the Hereafter. To further emphasize the significance of justice, the Quran highlights that even the smallest good deeds and sins will be taken into account on the Day of Judgment, emphasizing the meticulous fairness of divine judgment. This underscores that justice is a core value in Islam and that individuals are accountable for their actions, especially in matters of commerce and ethics. This Surah serves as a reminder that fairness, honesty, and justice are fundamental principles in the eyes of Allah (Surah Al-Mutaffifin, Quran 83:1-3).The word "وَیۡلٌ" (Wail) is used in the Quran to convey a sense of intense woe, warning, and impending punishment. It is closely related to the concept of Hellfire and is often used in the context of denouncing sinful or unjust behavior. In Surah Al-Mutaffifin (Chapter 83), the term "وَیۡلٌ" is employed to emphasize the gravity of the consequences for those who engage in dishonesty, fraud, and injustice, especially in matters of trade and commerce. In Surah Al-Mutaffifin, it serves as a stark warning to those who engage in dishonest trade practices, highlighting the severity of their actions and the consequences they will face in the Hereafter, including the torment of Hellfire.
Individual Contributions to Justice
Imagine some may say, "I'm not a businessperson, a political leader, or someone in a high-ranking position. How can I possibly contribute to establishing justice?" But what they might not realize is that they could be inadvertently doing injustice to the rights prescribed by Allah. By neglecting the Quran and disregarding the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, we risk deviating from the path of justice. Our individual actions and choices matter in upholding the principles of justice and righteousness.
In a Hadith narrated by Aisha رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ , the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ warned on the Day of Judgment, "Let those who have innovations go away from me." (Sahih al-Bukhari) This Hadith underscores the importance of adhering to the Quran and the authentic Sunnah while avoiding innovations in religion. It further emphasizes that each individual's commitment to the Quran and Sunnah plays a vital role in the pursuit of justice and righteousness in society.
Prayer, the Heart of Justice
It's disheartening to see how some of our fellow Muslims approach their prayers with such haste and negligence. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, our guide and role model, emphasized the importance of performing Salah (prayer) with dedication and mindfulness. In a Hadith, the Prophet ﷺ once witnessed a man praying hurriedly and remarked, "Go back and pray, for you have not offered the prayer." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
Our concern should extend beyond the physical aspects of Salah. It's not just about standing, bowing, and prostrating; it's about connecting with Allah, seeking His guidance, and finding solace in His words. Yet, we often find our minds wandering elsewhere while in prayer, and some even miss their obligatory Salah.
Moreover, our choices and actions beyond prayer also reflect our commitment to justice. Disobeying Allah's commands, neglecting the guidelines for modesty in dress, indulging in forbidden music, or consuming haram content are forms of injustice against our own souls.
In this age of distractions, many prioritize social media and various activities over the Quran – the ultimate source of guidance and wisdom. The Prophet ﷺ encouraged us to recite and understand the Quran. Our concern for the future of Muslims should drive us to rectify our prayer habits, adhere to Allah's commands, and dedicate time to ponder upon His words.
Consequences of Injustice
My dear brothers and sisters, it deeply troubles me to witness the injustices that have become so prevalent in our lives. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ warned us about these very issues, and his guidance is more relevant than ever.
Consider the Hadith narrated by Aisha رَضِيَ ٱللَّٰهُ عَنْهُ where she mentioned that love of position and power would lead to regret. When people fail to do their work with honesty and integrity, when they cheat in business transactions, it's an act of injustice. This dishonesty, even in the smallest matters, is akin to "tatfif" – deceit.
In the workplace, we see employers who demand full dedication from their employees but fail to pay them their rightful dues. This is a grave injustice that goes against the teachings of our faith. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized the rights of workers, stating that "Give the laborer his wages before his sweat dries." (Ibn Majah)
In our family lives, we sometimes fall into the trap of focusing only on the negative aspects of our loved ones. The Prophet ﷺ urged us to be grateful, reminding us that "Whoever does not thank people, does not thank Allah." (Hadith- Ahmad) This means that not acknowledging the good in others is a form of ingratitude and injustice.
Balanced Marital Relationships
In the delicate tapestry of marriage, where two souls intertwine their lives, there is a profound need for mutual understanding, love, and justice. Yet, it deeply concerns me to observe the imbalance that sometimes seeps into this sacred bond.
Husbands, in their rightful pursuit of love, sustenance, intimacy, companionship, and respect from their wives, sometimes overlook a crucial aspect – their own obligations. It's crucial for husbands to recognize that love and respect are not one-way streets. As wise individuals, we must understand that demanding rights without fulfilling our own duties can create a chasm in the relationship.
On the flip side, wives too have expectations. They rightfully desire love, financial security, and emotional support from their husbands. However, the Quran reminds us that marriage is built on a foundation of mutual support and tranquility. But when these expectations become one-sided, when wives receive love and care but fail to reciprocate, it creates an environment of ingratitude. They may get the princess treatment they desire, but their hearts remain ungrateful.
The Hadith forewarns us about this imbalance. It is narrated that "the majority of the inhabitants of Hellfire are women" because of their ingratitude towards their husbands. This should serve as a sobering reminder for us all.
In this age of rapid change and evolving roles, it's crucial to revisit the core principles of marriage. A union built on mutual love, respect, and justice is not a burden but a source of immense blessing and fulfillment. Husbands and wives, as partners in this beautiful journey, should strive to fulfill their respective rights and responsibilities with sincerity and compassion.
Justice Begins at Home
Even within the sacred confines of our homes, justice must prevail. The Prophet ﷺ cautioned against bias in parental treatment, reminding us that divine displeasure awaits those who favor one child over another. The essence of parental justice is to love and care for all our children equally, nurturing their well-being and self-esteem.
The Power of Daily Actions
Our daily actions, often underestimated, bear significant consequences for the atmosphere within our homes. Playing music and using foul language within our households contradict Islamic values, pulling us away from the path of justice and righteousness.
The Domino Effect of Injustice
The consequences of injustice are far-reaching and severe. The Hadith tells us that oppressive rulers will govern those who fail to establish justice in their lives. If you owe a debt to someone and neglect to repay it, forgiveness from Allah is unlikely until you seek pardon from the wronged party.
The Warning Signs from Quran and Hadith
The Quran and Hadith paint a vivid picture of the repercussions when injustice festers within a society. Here are some references that underscore these consequences:
1. Social Disorder and Corruption (Fasad): The Quran acknowledges that when injustice and corruption prevail, they sow the seeds of chaos and social disorder. Surah Ar-Rum (30:41) warns: "Corruption has appeared throughout the land and sea by [reason of] what the hands of people have earned so He may let them taste part of [the consequence of] what they have done that perhaps they will return [to righteousness]."
2. Removal of Divine Blessings: When injustice dominates, Allah may withdraw His blessings from the affected communities. Surah Al-A'raf (7:96) underscores this, stating: "Had the people of those cities believed and been righteous, We would have certainly bestowed blessings upon them from the heavens and the earth; but they gave themselves over [to evil], so We seized them for their deeds."
3. Punishment and Wrath of Allah: Injustice and oppression invoke the wrath of Allah. Surah Al-Anfal (8:25) makes this clear: "And fear a trial which will not strike those who have wronged among you exclusively, and know that Allah is severe in penalty."
4. Divine Justice: The Hadith highlights that on the Day of Judgment, those who committed injustice will be held accountable. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ warned: "Fear the prayer of the oppressed, for between it and Allah, there is no veil." (Sahih Bukhari)
5. Loss of Honor and Dignity: Engaging in injustice tarnishes the honor and dignity of individuals and communities. Such actions can lead to humiliation in both this world and the Hereafter.
6. Strife and Division: Injustice sows the seeds of strife and division among people. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ cautioned against this, saying: "Whoever harms a Muslim, Allah will harm him, and whoever makes things difficult for a Muslim, Allah will make things difficult for him." (Sahih Muslim)
7. Impairment of Relationships: Injustice corrodes trust and strains relationships among individuals and communities. It undermines the bonds of brotherhood and unity that are essential in any harmonious society.
Let these words serve as a poignant reminder of the pivotal role justice plays in every facet of our lives. Upholding justice is not merely an option; it is an integral part of our faith. May Allah guide us to live justly, safeguarding us from the snares of injustice, and nurturing an environment where righteousness and equity flourish.
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