mercy and justice in Islam
When we talk about mercy and justice in Islam, we are reviewing fundamental principles that constitute the essence of the Islamic religion and reflect its values and principles. Mercy and justice are not just theoretical concepts, but they are interconnected practices in the lives of Muslims and in Islamic law.
Mercy is considered one of the most important values that Islam calls for, as Allah, the Most Merciful, is a description repeated at the beginning of every chapter of the Quran, to remind Muslims that Allah is characterized by vast and comprehensive mercy. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, encouraged practicing mercy in all aspects of life, urging his companions to treat others with kindness and compassion, and he himself treated people with mercy and noble ethics.
As for justice in Islam, it is a fundamental and necessary principle, as Muslims are required to strive for justice in all aspects of life, whether in daily interactions or in legal matters. The Quran is considered the source of Islamic law, which encourages achieving justice among people and in all areas of life. For example, in Surah An-Nisa, Allah commands the believers to uphold justice and kindness, and prohibits injustice and corruption.
Some of the Quranic evidence that indicates mercy and justice in Islam:
1. Ayat Al-Kursi: "Allah - there is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of [all] existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it that can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is [presently] before them and what will be after them, and they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except for what He wills. His Kursi extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Most Great." (Al-Baqarah: 255)
2. Ayat Al-Adl: "O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted." (An-Nisa: 135)
As for the Prophetic hadiths that confirm mercy and justice in Islam:
1. Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, "Whoever does not show mercy to the people, Allah will not show mercy to him." (Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim)
2. Abu Dharr reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, "Be mindful of Allah wherever you are, follow a bad deed with a good deed to erase it, and treat people with good character." (Tirmidhi)
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