Justice in Islam: 7 Quran Verses and 3 Authentic Hadith
What is Justice in Islam
Justice in Islam is a key teaching which determines how a Muslim must behave towards Allah, family, society and humanity. The Quran instructs believers to be fair to people even when it is not in their own self interest, family interest or towards other people’s interest. Fairness should not be limited to the court or the ruler, but should also be applied to our everyday choices, relationships, business and dealings with people who are different; Islam teaches that all these areas must be based on fairness.
Allah says in the Quran:
۞ يٰۤـاَيُّهَا الَّذِيۡنَ اٰمَنُوۡا كُوۡنُوۡا قَوَّامِيۡنَ بِالۡقِسۡطِ شُهَدَآءَ لِلّٰهِ وَلَوۡ عَلٰٓى اَنۡفُسِكُمۡ اَوِ الۡوَالِدَيۡنِ وَالۡاَقۡرَبِيۡنَ ؕ اِنۡ يَّكُنۡ غَنِيًّا اَوۡ فَقِيۡرًا فَاللّٰهُ اَوۡلٰى بِهِمَا فَلَا تَتَّبِعُوا الۡهَوٰٓى اَنۡ تَعۡدِلُوۡا ۚ وَاِنۡ تَلۡوٗۤا اَوۡ تُعۡرِضُوۡا فَاِنَّ اللّٰهَ كَانَ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُوۡنَ خَبِيۡرًا ١٣٥
O believers! Stand firm for justice as witnesses for Allah even if it is against yourselves, your parents, or close relatives. Be they rich or poor, Allah is best to ensure their interests. So do not let your desires cause you to deviate ˹from justice˺. If you distort the testimony or refuse to give it, then ˹know that˺ Allah is certainly All-Aware of what you do. — Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran, An-Nisa4:135
This strong command sets a fundamental rule in Islam – providing the truth and fairness is more important than personal opinion. Justice in the Quran and authentic Sunnah can empower Muslims to create more responsible families and compassionate communities in a world that is plagued by discrimination, dishonesty, exploitation, and unequal treatment.
Through this article, Alqurandeskonline worldwide is going to teach about the definition of justice in Islam, some key verses from the Quran about justice, authentic Hadiths about justice, various types of justice, and ways on how Muslims can apply these teachings in their daily lives.
Islamic justice, Adl and Qist
Islamic justice is the giving of due rights, fair judgement, responsibility and the prevention of oppression. Honesty, impartiality, accountability and respect for the rights that Allah has given. In the Quran, two key words related to the concept of justice are ‘adl (عدل) and qist (قسط). Both are in use for the Quranic injunctions of fairness and equitable treatment, but their exact meanings are context dependent. Islamic justice is not just about equality (islamic equality) in all circumstances.
It also includes identifying valid rights, meeting responsibilities, taking into account pertinent factors, and not accepting a preference for what is right. A parent should not play favorites, for instance, among children. The employer is supposed to compensate employees what they are entitled to. The witness must tell the truth regardless of the consequences to his/her friend. A person who disagrees with another must recognize his or her rights. Islam then starts with the character of an individual and then moves towards the family, trade, leadership, judgments, and responsibilities in the society.
Why is Justice Important in Islam?
Justice is needed for the protection of human rights, to stop oppression, create trust and facilitate peaceful relationships. It is also obedience towards Allah. It is impossible to be a Muslim and be concerned with justice while knowingly cheating somebody, bringing false charges, denying someone his rights, or forgiving an individual for committing wrongdoings due to the fact he is a member of one’s family or community.
There are many references in the Quran that relate justice to righteousness and that warn against wrongdoing.The Quran constantly associates justice with righteousness and warns of wrongdoing. It helps believers to look at what they do and make corrections and stay accountable for their choices. Justice is thus an individual duty and a means to a healthy society.
7 Important Verses from the Quran about Justice.
There are many very strong commands in the Quran about fairness, truthful testimony and the refusal to accept oppression. Here are some verses that will help us to understand the concept of justice in Islam.
1.Surah Al-Qasas 28:83–84 (The True Abode and Divine Justice)
تِلۡكَ الدَّارُ الۡاٰخِرَةُ نَجۡعَلُهَا لِلَّذِيۡنَ لَا يُرِيۡدُوۡنَ عُلُوًّا فِى الۡاَرۡضِ وَلَا فَسَادًا ؕ وَالۡعَاقِبَةُ لِلۡمُتَّقِيۡنَ ٨٣
That ˹eternal˺ Home in the Hereafter We reserve ˹only˺ for those who seek neither tyranny nor corruption on the earth. The ultimate outcome belongs ˹only˺ to the righteous
مَنۡ جَآءَ بِالۡحَسَنَةِ فَلَهٗ خَيۡرٌ مِّنۡهَا ۚ وَمَنۡ جَآءَ بِالسَّيِّئَةِ فَلَا يُجۡزَى الَّذِيۡنَ عَمِلُوا السَّيِّاٰتِ اِلَّا مَا كَانُوۡا يَعۡمَلُوۡنَ ٨٤
Whoever comes with a good deed will be rewarded with what is better. And whoever comes with an evil deed, then the evildoers will only be rewarded for what they used to do.
The Blessings of the Hereafter for the humble Believers
Allah tells us that He has made the home of the Hereafter, and its eternal delights which will never change or fade away, for His believing, humble servants who do not rebel against the truth with pride and oppression in the land. They do not exalt themselves above the creatures of Allah, arrogantly oppressing them and spreading corruption among them.
Important lesson: Allah’s divine justice is bound by immense mercy, multiplying the rewards for good actions while punishing evil only to its exact measure.
2 Surah An-Nisa, 4:135, Commanding Justice and Conveying the Witness for Allah
يٰۤـاَيُّهَا الَّذِيۡنَ اٰمَنُوۡا كُوۡنُوۡا قَوَّامِيۡنَ بِالۡقِسۡطِ شُهَدَآءَ لِلّٰهِ وَلَوۡ عَلٰٓى اَنۡفُسِكُمۡ اَوِ الۡوَالِدَيۡنِ وَالۡاَقۡرَبِيۡنَ ؕ اِنۡ يَّكُنۡ غَنِيًّا اَوۡ فَقِيۡرًا فَاللّٰهُ اَوۡلٰى بِهِمَا فَلَا تَتَّبِعُوا الۡهَوٰٓى اَنۡ تَعۡدِلُوۡا ۚ وَاِنۡ تَلۡوٗۤا اَوۡ تُعۡرِضُوۡا فَاِنَّ اللّٰهَ كَانَ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُوۡنَ خَبِيۡرًا ١٣٥
O believers! Stand firm for justice as witnesses for Allah even if it is against yourselves, your parents, or close relatives. Be they rich or poor, Allah is best to ensure their interests. So do not let your desires cause you to deviate ˹from justice˺. If you distort the testimony or refuse to give it, then ˹know that˺ Allah is certainly All-Aware of what you do. — Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran, An-Nisa 4:135
Allah commands His believing servants to stand up for justice and fairness and not to deviate from it, right or left. They should not fear the blame of anyone or allow anyone to prevent them from doing something for the sake of Allah.
Important lesson: A Muslim should be ready to accept the truth despite any difficulty he may have in accepting it. In real life it involves confessing to a wrong, changing a friend’s misinformation, and not engaging in any dishonest actions in one’s family.
3 Surah Al Maidah 5:8 The Necessity of Observing Justice
يٰۤـاَيُّهَا الَّذِيۡنَ اٰمَنُوۡا كُوۡنُوۡا قَوَّا امِيۡنَ لِلّٰهِ شُهَدَآءَ بِالۡقِسۡطِ وَلَا يَجۡرِمَنَّكُمۡ شَنَاٰنُ قَوۡمٍ عَلٰٓى اَ لَّا تَعۡدِلُوۡا ؕ اِعۡدِلُوۡا هُوَ اَقۡرَبُ لِلتَّقۡوٰى وَاتَّقُوا اللّٰهَ ؕ اِنَّ اللّٰهَ خَبِيۡرٌۢ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُوۡنَ ٨
O believers! Stand firm for Allah and bear true testimony. Do not let the hatred of a people lead you to injustice. Be just! That is closer to righteousness. And be mindful of Allah. Surely Allah is All-Aware of what you do. — Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran
Allah commands believers to be firm in their rightness and advises them not to be influenced by enmity towards a people in their upholding of rightness. And do not walk in their footsteps in sin. Do not do what they do in sin. There is a human failing that this command is meant to correct: unfairness towards others due to anger, rivalry, prejudice, or past hatred or conflict.
One can have a difference of opinion about another’s beliefs, personality, decisions or actions. But differences do not justify lying about them, trampling on their rights or falsely accusing them. If someone has a dispute at work, a Muslim should talk about what really went wrong, for example, and not magnify the errors of the other person. One should be careful to check the claims against others before posting them, even if the claims are directed at a disliked person or group, on social media.
Important lesson: your emotions should not be what you use to decide if someone is treated fairly or not!
4 Surah An-Nahl 16:90, The Command to be Fair and Kind
اِنَّ اللّٰهَ يَاۡمُرُ بِالۡعَدۡلِ وَالۡاِحۡسَانِ وَاِيۡتَآىِٕ ذِى الۡقُرۡبٰى وَيَنۡهٰى عَنِ الۡفَحۡشَآءِ وَالۡمُنۡكَرِ وَالۡبَغۡىِۚ يَعِظُكُمۡ لَعَلَّكُمۡ تَذَكَّرُوۡنَ ٩٠
Indeed, Allah commands justice, grace, as well as generosity to close relatives. He forbids indecency, wickedness, and aggression. He instructs you so perhaps you will be mindful. — Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran
This verse is a compilation of justice and ihsan, meaning doing something good, doing more than what is required by justice. Justice involves the actualization of the just rights of people. Ihsan fosters goodness, generosity and excellence.
For example, when an employee agrees to a salary, the employer must pay the agreed amount which is a duty of fairness. To treat that employee with dignity and appreciate his/her work and to help him/her to grow professionally can be an example of excellence in conduct. Likewise, justice demands that there be no harm done to relatives and ihsan calls for keeping ties with relatives and treating them well.
Key learning: Allah tells us that Allah commands His servant to be just, i.e., fair and moderate, and that Allah encourages kindness and good treatment.
5 Sura Al-Hadid verse 25-The Prophets were given Miracles and Sent with truth and Justice
لَـقَدۡ اَرۡسَلۡنَا رُسُلَنَا بِالۡبَيِّنٰتِ وَاَنۡزَلۡنَا مَعَهُمُ الۡكِتٰبَ وَالۡمِيۡزَانَ لِيَقُوۡمَ النَّاسُ بِالۡقِسۡطِۚ وَاَنۡزَلۡنَا الۡحَـدِيۡدَ فِيۡهِ بَاۡسٌ شَدِيۡدٌ وَّمَنَافِعُ لِلنَّاسِ وَلِيَـعۡلَمَ اللّٰهُ مَنۡ يَّنۡصُرُهٗ وَ رُسُلَهٗ بِالۡغَيۡبِ ؕ اِنَّ اللّٰهَ قَوِىٌّ عَزِيۡزٌ ٢٥
Indeed, We sent Our messengers with clear proofs, and with them We sent down the Scripture and the balance ˹of justice˺ so that people may administer justice. And We sent down iron with its great might, benefits for humanity, and means for Allah to prove who ˹is willing to˺ stand up for Him and His messengers without seeing Him. Surely Allah is All-Powerful, Almighty. — Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran
The Prophets were given Miracles and Sent with truth and Justice. Allah sent His messengers and revealed His guidance so that people can establish justice.
Key lesson: Allah revealed messengers so that humans can be just. It’s our responsibility to turn faith into fair actions, stand against oppression, and fulfil the rights of others.
6. Surah Al-Baqarah 2:188, Do not take up wealth wrongfully
وَلَا تَاۡكُلُوۡٓا اَمۡوَالَـكُمۡ بَيۡنَكُمۡ بِالۡبَاطِلِ وَتُدۡلُوۡا بِهَآ اِلَى الۡحُـکَّامِ لِتَاۡکُلُوۡا فَرِيۡقًا مِّنۡ اَمۡوَالِ النَّاسِ بِالۡاِثۡمِ وَاَنۡـتُمۡ تَعۡلَمُوۡنَ ١٨٨
Do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly, nor deliberately bribe authorities in order to devour a portion of others’ property, knowing that it is a sin. — Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran
Allah has forbidden the people of Islam from consuming each other’s property illusory and from the use of means of corruption to put others to the test and divert them from what is rightfully theirs. This verse is very applicable in the sphere of business, finance, property issue, and abuse of influence.
Some examples of unfair practices involve the deliberate misrepresentation of customers, reckless taking of money through fraud, non-payment of money that is rightfully owed, and making false claims to someone’s property. The verse also tells the believers that if they gain a good result in an unrighteous way, it is not just and good before Allah.
Key lesson: Wealth can only be acquired and managed in an honest and ethical way.
7. Surah Al-Isra 17:35, Just Weight and Measure
وَاَوۡفُوا الۡـكَيۡلَ اِذَا كِلۡتُمۡ وَزِنُوۡا بِالۡقِسۡطَاسِ الۡمُسۡتَقِيۡمِؕ ذٰ لِكَ خَيۡرٌ وَّاَحۡسَنُ تَاۡوِيۡلًا ٣٥
Give in full when you measure, and weigh with an even balance. That is fairest and best in the end. — Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran
The code of conduct the surah outlines also speaks about fairness in commercial dealings.The relevance of fulfilling promises and giving fair and full measure and weight is readily apparent, both in meaning and expression. This makes the progress from one to the other easy and smooth. To be fair in transactions and to give full weight and measure are actions which mark honest dealing and good faith. Thus, internal dealings within the community are set on the right footing, which promotes trust and honesty, and ensures blessings all round:
Muslims should not mislead customers about the quality of the product, service they provide or manipulate the invoice or guarantee something which they are not going to deliver.It is good in this life as it maintains fairness, and better in the hereafter as it ensures a good reward. This is also true with professional work. A service provider must be transparent about the services, timelines and costs. A customer should abide by the agreed payment conditions.
Key lesson: Justice is about being honest in daily transactions, giving fair and full measure and weight is readily apparent, both in meaning and expression, it’s not just about big cases and courtrooms.
Islam message on Justice and Equality
Equality and justice are similar yet not synonymous. Islam demands justice and doesn’t allow any unjust distinction and it also acknowledges that responsibilities and rights vary from person to person in certain situations. By commanding the use of justice regardless of wealth, family ties or feelings, the islam shows that status must not be a justification for unfair treatment.
For instance, a teacher should take a fair shot at students, rather than giving preference to students they personally know. An employer should evaluate and consider an applicant for employment based on his or her qualifications and not his or her prejudice. Before getting into an argument, a family should pay attention to the words in front of them and not blame anyone. Islamic justice demands good judgment, evidence in accordance with the truth and respecting legitimate rights.
Islamic Justice from Hadith
The Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (saw) is a confirmation of the Quranic orders to uphold justice, fulfill responsibilities, and refrain from evil.
1.Sahih Muslim 2577, The Prohibition Of Oppression
Abu Dharr reported Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) as saying that Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, said:
“My servants, I have forbidden oppression for Myself, and I have forbidden it among you: oppress not one another.” Reference: Sahih Muslim 2577.The Book of Virtue, Enjoining Good Manners, and Joining of the Ties of Kinship. Chapter 15: The Prohibition Of Oppression
Allah has prohibited oppression and injustice; it is a great duty for all the Faithful to respect others’ rights. Oppression is not just about physical violence: it may be about being dishonest, denying people their dues, false accusations, exploitation, misuse of power, misuse of relationships and causing harm.
Never let anger, personal interests, family connections or social standing get in the way of being treated fairly. We must come to know ourselves, do our duty, and oppose injustice wisely and sincerely if we want to have true faith. Never do something wrong to someone for the sake of doing it. Show fairness and dignity to others as you would want to be shown to you—knowledge of which is with Allah for every deed.
2. Sahih al-Bukhari 2444. Oppressions. Chapter 4: Help your brother
Narrated Anas:
Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, “Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or he is an oppressed one. People asked, “O Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ)! It is all right to help him if he is oppressed, but how should we help him if he is an oppressor?” The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “By preventing him from oppressing others.”
Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 2444. Oppressions. Chapter 4: Help your brother
True loyalty is not being uncritical about the other person even if he’s a family member, friend, or loved one. Prophet Muhammad (saws) said that assisting an oppressor is to prevent him from doing injustice, not to cover up his injustice. Sometimes, the best form of support involves pointing out to someone what they did wrong, upholding the rights of others and not joining them in their wrongdoing. Inaction or excuses for misconduct can let injustice run. Be with people in their tribulations, but not in their injustices. True brotherhood is the assistance of each to the other in doing what is right, even if the truth is hard to take.
3. Sahih Muslim 1827.The virtue of a just ruler and the punishment of a tyrant
It has been narrated on the authority of ‘Abdullah b. `Amr that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:
“Those who are fair and just will be near to Allah on thrones of light, at the Right Hand of the Most Merciful, Glorified and Exalted is He, and both of His Hands are Right, those who are fair and just in their rulings and towards their families and those who are under their authority.” Reference: Sahih Muslim 1827.
Justice doesn’t just happen in courts and leadership and public decisions, it starts at home and works out to everyone we have responsibility for. The Prophet Muhammad (saws) emphasized the great rewards that await the one who carries out acts of justice between people, justness with their families and justice in what they are responsible for. Non-discrimination, the use of power and the influence of feelings must be avoided. As parents, spouses, teachers, employers, or community leaders, we are responsible for our actions towards those with whom we interact. Leadership is not a matter of authority over people, but a matter to fulfil their rights with justice, mercy and responsibility before Allah.
All parents, teachers, employers, community leaders and those who are delegated authority should not be biased and do what they should in an impartial manner. Alqurandesk hadith studies online teaches Muslims to think of authority as a duty, and not as a license to impose personal tastes and choices.
Justice Within the Family
The relationship with the family can be a difficult aspect of justice due to the influence of love, loyalty, expectations, and emotions on decision making. Islam promotes goodness towards parents and relatives, but goodness is not synonymous with accepting falsehood and supporting wrongdoing.
The role of the parents and close relatives are also expressed in Surah An-Nisa 4:135 which explicitly stipulates them in the command to uphold justice. This implies that no false testimony or unfair decision should be based on family relations. Parents should strive to avoid unjust favouritism among their children. Spouses must carry out each other’s rights and not excuse hurtful behaviour through anger and authority. There should be an honest discussion among relatives concerning disagreements and no spreading of unverified allegations.
If there is a disagreement within the family, it is important to listen to the concerns, accept the error and work toward a solution that takes into account everyone’s rightful claims. Justices should also be done by word. It is hurtful to be the subject of ridicule, humiliation, false accusations or the unnecessary disclosure of private matters. Muslims should use correct demeanor, good language and should respect confidentiality when they tell the truth. Not all disagreements are of an urgent nature. Yet, believers are able to be fair and act justly while pursuing reconciliation.
Justice in Business, Education, and Professional Life
The relationship with the family can be a difficult aspect of justice due to the influence of love, loyalty, expectations, and emotions on decision making. Islam promotes goodness towards parents and relatives, but goodness is not synonymous with accepting falsehood and supporting wrongdoing.
The role of the parents and close relatives are also expressed in Surah An-Nisa 4:135 which explicitly stipulates them in the command to uphold justice. This implies that no false testimony or unfair decision should be based on family relations. Parents should strive to avoid unjust favouritism among their children. Spouses must carry out each other’s rights and not excuse hurtful behaviour through anger and authority. There should be an honest discussion among relatives concerning disagreements and no spreading of unverified allegations.
If there is a disagreement within the family, it is important to listen to the concerns, accept the error and work toward a solution that takes into account everyone’s rightful claims. Justices should also be done by word. It is hurtful to be the subject of ridicule, humiliation, false accusations or the unnecessary disclosure of private matters. Muslims should use correct demeanor, good language and should respect confidentiality when they tell the truth. Not all disagreements are of an urgent nature. Yet, believers are able to be fair and act justly while pursuing reconciliation.
Why Learning the Quran and hadith help Muslims understand Justice
The Quran and hadith offers instruction on morals, worship, relationships, monetary transactions and social duties. The study of quranic verses in the correct translation and interpretation (tafsir) helps the reader to understand its context and application. Justice must be based on truthfulness along with lack of prejudice.
For the beginning, it can be a simple daily regimen to read a portion of the Quran, go through the translation, learn a reliable commentary on the Quran, and contemplate one practical point. The correct pronunciation of words during recitation is also important. A qualified teacher is able to enable learners to improve their reading, correct mistakes and develop consistency.
The structured Quran learning routine will enhance students’ abilities in recitation and will also strengthen their understanding of the values that are taught in the Quran such as Justice, Honesty, Mercy and Accountability etc. The objective is not just to read the words of the Qur’an, but to read it with sincerity, study it responsibly and apply its guidance in life .As you proceed along your Quranic and hadith journey, consider how you can apply justice guidance in your choices and connections.When it comes to seeking information on justice and how to learn the Quran and a suitable online learning plan, AlQuranDesk Australia is a relevant destination for Australians.
FAQ’s on justice in Islam
What is justice in Islam?
In Islam, justice is defined as fairness, righting the wrong, telling the truth and not to oppress people. The Quran instructs Muslims to be fair even if they have to sacrifice themselves or their relatives by doing so.
Why is justice important in Islam?
Justice defends rights, stops oppression, promotes trust and accountability. It is an act of obedience to Allah, and a basis of good relations in the family, community and in work life.
What’s the difference between Adl and Qist?
Adl and qist are Arabic terms that are linked to justice and fairness in the Quran. Both have specific nuances depending on context, but they are both relevant in the context of Quranic teachings on the issue of fair treatment and equitable judgement.
Conclusion: Make Justice An Ingredient In Your Faith
In Islam, justice is a command of God, and a duty that is followed in all aspects of life. The Quran instructs the Muslim to stand up for the truth even when the truth is against his/her self, family, or others. The Quran and Hadith give a very specific concept of justice: It teaches Muslims to treat others fairly, to tell the truth, to do what is due to others, and to refrain from all forms of oppression. Islam says that justice is to be adhered to in all human affairs, irrespective of interests, relationships, feelings and social statuses. True faith is not just seen in our words and in our worship, but also in our manner towards others when we can be doing something unfair.
The Quran and true hadiths tell us that no relationship, no benefit and no position of superiority is worth injustice. To help others is to stand for what is right, to right what is wrong with wisdom, and do not become a source of harm to anyone. Every Muslim has to take an introspection, and should not be found guilty by the other, by having some standards for others and none for himself; should not break his commitments and should not neglect to do what others are entitled to do for him.
The first step to justice is to be the change we want to see in the world. If we are demanding our rights, let’s ensure that we are doing our part to respect others’ rights. Learning the Quran online and with understanding the guidance of Prophet Muhammad (saws), can improve our character, establish trustworthy relationships and contribute to a better and more compassionate society.
May Allah grant us justice, fulfillment of rights, abstinence from oppression, sincerity and wisdom. Ameen.
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