Justice is a central value in Islam and the foundation upon which all legislation is built. It is not merely a moral principle or a social ideal, but a divine command that guides the life of Muslims in governance, law, social relations, and daily interactions.
Allah says:
“Indeed, Allah commands justice, good conduct, and giving to relatives and forbids immorality, bad conduct, and oppression. He admonishes you that perhaps you will be reminded.” (Qur’an, 16:90)
In Islam, justice is absolute. It is not influenced by social status, lineage, wealth, or poverty; rather, it is a right guaranteed to every human being. This is why Islamic legislation emphasizes justice as the foundation of judgment:
“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice.” (Qur’an, 4:58)
Justice in Judiciary
One of the clearest manifestations of justice in Islam is in the judiciary. A judge does not rule according to personal interests or biases but according to what Allah has revealed, treating all people equally. A famous example is when Caliph Ali ibn AbiTalib رضي الله عنه stood before a judge against a Jewish man, proving that everyone is equal before justice.
Justice in Transactions
Justice also applies to financial and economic dealings. Islam forbids cheating, monopoly, and usury because they contradict fairness and oppress others. Allah says:
“And establish weight in justice and do not make deficient the balance.” (Qur’an, 55:9)
This shows that justice in trade and daily dealings is a guarantee of social stability and trust.
Justice with Enemies and Non-Muslims
Remarkably, Islam commands justice even with enemies. Allah says:
“And do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.” (Qur’an, 5:8)
Thus, justice is a universal value that transcends animosities and conflicts.
Justice in the Family
Islam also stresses justice within the family. A parent must be fair in treatment and gifts among children, and a husband is commanded to be just between his wives if he has more than one. The Prophet ﷺ warned:
“Whoever has two wives and leans toward one of them will come on the Day of Judgment with half of his body leaning.” (Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi).
Justice as a Basis for Stability and Prosperity
History shows that societies without justice collapse, while those that uphold it thrive. Ibn Taymiyyah رحمه الله said: “Allah upholds a just state even if it is disbelieving, and He does not uphold an unjust state even if it is Muslim.” This highlights that justice is a universal law of survival and prosperity.
Justice in the Prophet’s Example
The Prophet ﷺ embodied justice in his life, refusing favoritism. When a noblewoman from the Makhzumi tribe stole, he said:
“By Allah, if Fatimah the daughter of Muhammad were to steal, I would cut off her hand.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
This illustrates that in Islam, no one is above the law.
In conclusion, justice is the essence of Islamic legislation. It preserves rights, ensures fairness, and spreads peace and stability in society. It is a comprehensive principle that permeates all aspects of life, making Islam a religion of mercy, equality, and truth.
