How Concerned Islam Is About Human Rights In A Society
Though Islam is not the only divine religion descended upon humanity for the ultimate purpose of their guidance, but it is definitely the final one chosen for this purpose by the ultimate creator Allah Almighty. This is not just some positive apprehension, but it is a fact mentioned by Allah (SWT) in the final Scripture, the Holy Quran, such as in the verse mentioned below:
This day, I have perfected your religion for you and completed My favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion…” (Holy Qur’an, 5:3)
Now, mention of the word “complete” means comprehensively complete; covering all aspects of life, including the most talked about one today, i.e. human rights. Unlike what is portrayed about the state of affairs related to human rights in Islamic societies on media, let us have a deeper look at the ultimate source of guidance for Muslims, i.e. the Holy Quran and try to infer truth from it. This shall also compel us to find a learned and experienced Quran teacher who might guide us in detail about the teachings of Islam as mentioned in Qur’an.
Freedom of choosing religion
Let us start by one of the most popularized allegations on Islam, i.e. people are forcefully converted to Islam. Have a look at this clear and blunt verse that shall serve enough to conclude the true state of affairs in this regard from the true Islamic perspective:
Let there be no compulsion in religion: Truth stands out clear from Error: whoever rejects evil and believes in Allah hath grasped the most trustworthy hand-hold, that never breaks. And Allah heareth and knoweth all things. (2:256)
Protecting all under Islamic jurisdiction
Yet another proof to Islam’s intent to unbiased justice and freedom in an Islamic society comes from the fact that it not only cares for Muslims living in an Islamic society but cares for all, irrespective of their religions. “Dhimmi” is a term that refers to non-Muslims living in an Islamic state. Look what Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said in this regard:
“One who kills a man under covenant (i.e., dhimmi) will not even smell the fragrance of Paradise.”
Protesting tyranny
Today, media portrays Islam as a religion that promotes tyranny. Though it appears true under current circumstances when the majority of Islamic societies are being ruled by tyrants, this is much far from a true Islamic perspective that can be seen from the following statement of the first Caliph of Muslims, i.e. Abu Bakar (R.A):
“Cooperate with me when I am right but correct me when I commit error; obey me so long as I follow the commandments of Allah and His Prophet, but turn away from me when I deviate.”
The share of needy in basic necessities of life
This is yet another brilliant chapter in Islam’s concern about human welfare. It asks and encourages for the provision of basic necessities of life to all, especially the needy ones, as evident from the following verse:
Adh-Dhariyat [51:19] And in their wealth and possessions (was remembered) the right of the (needy), him who asked and him who (for some reason) was prevented (from asking).
Securing life and property
Security of human life and property is also very important in regard to Islam’s concept of human welfare. Have a look at the following words from The Last Sermon of Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) at Hajja-tul-vida:
“Your lives and properties are forbidden to one another till you meet your Lord on the Day of Resurrection.”
Conclusion
The points mentioned above serve just a little fraction of the comprehensive teachings of Islam on human rights in Qur’an and Sunnah. That is why learning both of them are so imperative to Muslims. In fact, we can do it in the most convenient manner by registering with Quran online institutions where tutors help people in learning the ways of Quran and Sunnah.
Remember, Allah Almighty has descended His final message to humanity in the form of the Quran, to be complemented by Sunnah as well. Now, it rests upon us to get acquainted with it and get the best out of it. Make sure you also do that before it is too late.
