Justice and fairness - in the Quran

Justice and fairness are fundamental principles in the Quran that are emphasized throughout its teachings. The Quran teaches that Allah is just and fair, and believers are encouraged to emulate this quality in their own lives.

Here are some key aspects of justice and fairness in the Quran:

Equality: The Quran teaches that all humans are equal in the eyes of Allah, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or social status. Chapter 49, Verse 13 states, "O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted." This verse emphasizes the importance of individual piety and righteousness, rather than worldly status or privilege.

Accountability: The Quran teaches that all individuals are accountable for their actions, and that justice will ultimately be served. Chapter 3, Verse 25 states, "But those who break the covenant of Allah after contracting it and sever that which Allah has ordered to be joined and spread corruption on earth - for them is the curse, and they will have the worst home." This verse emphasizes the importance of upholding one's commitments and acting with integrity.

Mercy and forgiveness: While justice and fairness are important principles in the Quran, they are always balanced with mercy and forgiveness. Chapter 7, Verse 199 states, "Take what is given freely, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the ignorant. And if an evil suggestion comes to you from Satan, then seek refuge in Allah. Indeed, He is Hearing and Knowing." This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking refuge in Allah when faced with temptation or wrongdoing.

Social justice: The Quran places great emphasis on social justice and the fair distribution of resources. Chapter 59, Verse 7 states, "Whatever Allah grants to His Messenger from the people of the towns is for Allah and for the Messenger and for [his] near relatives and orphans and the needy and the [stranded] traveler, so that it will not be a perpetual distribution among the rich from among you. And whatever the Messenger has given you - take; and what he has forbidden you - refrain from." This verse emphasizes the importance of redistributing wealth and resources to support those in need.

Justice and fairness are integral components of the Quran's teachings, and are emphasized as essential aspects of a righteous and virtuous life.

Here are some Quran verses on this topic:

Chapter 2, Verse 42: "And do not mix the truth with falsehood or conceal the truth while you know [it]." This verse emphasizes the importance of speaking and upholding the truth, and not distorting or concealing it for personal gain or bias.

Chapter 2, Verse 188: "And do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful]." This verse emphasizes the prohibition of consuming others' wealth unjustly or engaging in bribery or corruption to gain an unfair advantage.

Chapter 4, Verse 135: "O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do." This verse emphasizes the importance of being just and standing firm for Allah, even in the face of hatred or bias towards a certain group of people.

Chapter 5, Verse 8: "O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do." This verse emphasizes the importance of being just and impartial, even towards those with whom one may have personal disagreements or conflicts.

Chapter 6, Verse 115: "And the word of your Lord has been fulfilled in truth and in justice. None can alter His words, and He is the Hearing, the Knowing." This verse emphasizes the idea that Allah's word is always true and just, and that it cannot be altered or changed by anyone.

Chapter 6, Verse 152: "And do not approach the orphan's property except in a way that is best until he reaches maturity. And give full measure and weight in justice. We do not charge any soul except [with that within] its capacity. And when you testify, be just, even if [it concerns] a near relative. And the covenant of Allah fulfill. This has He instructed you that you may remember." This verse emphasizes the importance of fair treatment towards orphans, giving full measure and weight in business transactions, and being just even in matters concerning one's own relatives.

Chapter 16, Verse 90: "Indeed, Allah orders justice and good conduct and giving to relatives and forbids immorality and bad conduct and oppression. He admonishes you that perhaps you will be reminded." This verse summarizes the fundamental principles of justice and fairness in the Quran, and emphasizes the importance of upholding these principles in all aspects of one's life.

Chapter 16, Verse 90: "Indeed, Allah orders justice and good conduct and giving to relatives and forbids immorality and bad conduct and oppression. He admonishes you that perhaps you will be reminded." This verse summarizes the core values of Islam, emphasizing the importance of justice, good conduct, generosity, and the prohibition of oppression and immoral behavior.

Chapter 17, Verse 15: "Whoever is guided is only guided for [the benefit of] his soul. And whoever errs only errs against it. And no bearer of burdens will bear the burden of another. And never would We punish until We sent a messenger." This verse emphasizes the concept of personal responsibility and accountability, and the idea that no one should be punished for the sins of others.

Chapter 17, Verse 35: "And give full measure when you measure, and weigh with an even balance. That is the best [way] and best in result." This verse emphasizes the importance of using fair and accurate measurements and balances in all transactions.

Chapter 22, Verse 78: "And strive for Allah with the striving due to Him. He has chosen you and has not placed upon you in the religion any difficulty. [It is] the religion of your father, Abraham. Allah named you "Muslims" before [in former scriptures] and in this [revelation] that the Messenger may be a witness over you and you may be witnesses over the people. So establish prayer and give zakah and hold fast to Allah. He is your protector; and excellent is the protector, and excellent is the helper." This verse emphasizes the importance of striving for Allah and adhering to the principles of the religion, which includes establishing prayer, giving zakah (charity), and holding fast to Allah.

Chapter 30, Verse 45: "That He may reward those who have believed and done righteous deeds out of His bounty. Indeed, He does not like the disbelievers." This verse emphasizes the importance of good deeds and righteous conduct, and the idea that belief and action go hand in hand.

Chapter 33, Verse 58: "And those who harm believing men and believing women for [something] other than what they have earned have certainly born upon themselves a slander and manifest sin." This verse emphasizes the importance of treating others with justice and fairness, and not causing harm or injustice to anyone, regardless of their beliefs or background.

Chapter 39, Verse 69: "And the earth will shine with the light of its Lord, and the record [of deeds] will be placed, and the prophets and the witnesses will be brought, and it will be judged between them in truth, and they will not be wronged." This verse emphasizes the idea that ultimately, justice will prevail and all actions will be accounted for and judged with fairness.

Chapter 42, Verse 15: "So to that [religion of Allah ] invite, [O Muhammad], and remain on a right course as you are commanded and do not follow their inclinations but say, 'I have believed in what Allah has revealed of the Qur'an, and I have been commanded to do justice among you. Allah is our Lord and your Lord. For us are our deeds, and for you your deeds. There is no [need for] argument between us and you. Allah will bring us together, and to Him is the [final] destination.'" This verse emphasizes the importance of doing justice among people, regardless of their religion or beliefs.

Chapter 42, Verse 40: "The retribution for an evil act is an evil one like it, but whoever pardons and makes reconciliation - his reward is [due] from Allah. Indeed, He does not like wrongdoers." This verse emphasizes the idea of fair retribution for evil acts, but also highlights the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation, as those who forgive are rewarded by Allah.

Chapter 49, Verse 9: "And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly." This verse emphasizes the importance of resolving disputes and conflicts in a just and fair manner, and taking action against oppression and injustice.

Chapter 55, Verses 7-9: "And the heaven He raised and imposed the balance. That you not transgress within the balance. And establish weight in justice and do not make deficient the balance." These verses emphasize the importance of maintaining balance and justice in all aspects of life, and avoiding excess or imbalance.

Chapter 57, Verse 25: "Certainly We sent Our messengers with clear proofs, and We sent down with them the Scripture and the Balance, that mankind may stand upright in justice; and We sent down iron, in which there is great might, as well as many benefits for mankind, so that Allah may know who helps Him and His messengers in secret. Indeed, Allah is Powerful, Mighty." This verse emphasizes the importance of the Balance, which refers to the guidance and standards set by Allah through the Prophets and the Qur'an, and how it helps people stand upright in justice.

Chapter 60, Verse 8: "Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly." This verse emphasizes the importance of treating non-Muslims with justice and fairness, even if they do not share the same beliefs.

Chapter 76, Verse 4: "Indeed, We have prepared for the disbelievers chains and shackles and a blaze." This verse emphasizes the concept of divine justice, wherein those who reject the truth and engage in wrongdoing will face consequences for their actions.

Chapter 76, Verse 3: "Indeed, We guided him to the way, be he grateful or be he ungrateful." This verse emphasizes the idea that guidance is offered to all, regardless of their gratitude or lack thereof, highlighting the fairness and impartiality of divine justice.

Chapter 95, Verse 4: "We have certainly created man in the best of stature." This verse emphasizes the beauty and perfection of human creation, highlighting the importance of valuing and respecting human life and dignity.

Overall, the Quran places a strong emphasis on the importance of justice and fairness in all aspects of life, whether it be in personal relationships, business dealings, or societal structures. These values are seen as essential to living a righteous and virtuous life, and are seen as a key aspect of the Islamic faith.