Category : Tips
Author : Rabia Basri

Rabia writes: In the vast tapestry of society, a symphony of individuals, both virtuous and flawed, coexists, weaving a complex narrative of human existence. Islam, not merely a religion but a comprehensive way of life, emerges as a guiding light, addressing the intricate biological challenges of humanity.

In the vast tapestry of society, a symphony of individuals, both virtuous and flawed, coexists, weaving a complex narrative of human existence. Islam, not merely a religion but a comprehensive way of life, emerges as a guiding light, addressing the intricate biological challenges of humanity. In exploring the profound guidance of Islam, the Muslim community must grasp the essence of Prophet Muhammad’s (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) teachings, acknowledging their responsibility to combat the pervasive struggle between good and evil.

Understanding Society’s Dynamics

Islam, beyond rituals, provides a holistic life guide for navigating the complexities of societal dynamics. The faith recognizes the diversity within society, offering a comprehensive solution to the inherent challenges of human existence.
Prophet Muhammad’s wisdom highlights the primary responsibility of Muslims – discerning and combatting evil with unwavering commitment. The Quran echoes this duty, emphasizing the Muslim community’s role in enjoining righteousness and forbidding wrongdoing (3:110, 3:104). Neglecting this responsibility, warns Allah, exposes society to the contagious effects of social evils (8:25).
Evils, labelled as ‘fitna,’ act as a societal plague affecting both sinners and the morally upright. Eradicating social evils becomes a collective duty, safeguarding the community from their pervasive and harmful influence.”

Defining Evil in Islam

In response to inquiries about wine and gambling, the Quran acknowledges some benefits but asserts, ‘In them is a great sin, and [yet, some] benefit for people. But their sin is greater than their benefit’ (2:219). This recognition underlines Islam’s nuanced stance, acknowledging limited benefits while emphasizing the overall harm. Islamic doctrine categorizes acts as evil when wrongdoing surpasses the good, obligating Muslims to forbid practices restricted by Allah and the Prophet. This framework provides a clear understanding of evil in Islam, aligning actions with the balance of harm and benefit as delineated in the sacred texts.”

Solutions Rooted in Principles:

The Arabian Peninsula, much like any society, grappled with the circulation of malevolent forces. Evils permeated the community, threatening its moral fabric. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), recognizing the urgency, initiated a profound solution, laying the foundation for a paradigm shift.
At the core of this solution lies the visionary insight of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who embarked on the task of interpreting Islamic principles. This approach went beyond mere condemnation; it sought to delve into the roots of evil, addressing the intricacies that allowed it to flourish.

1. Principle-based solution:
Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh), acknowledging the soul’s inclination towards evil, laid the groundwork for dismantling malevolence’s fortress. His self-awareness, expressed in Quranic verses like “And I do not acquit myself,” reveals the struggle within the human psyche, emphasizing the origins of evil.
The call for a social revolution, according to Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh), hinges on transforming individual “minds”. Recognizing that societal change stems from enlightened consciousness, he envisioned a profound shift in thinking, fostering clarity and purpose.
Commencing this transformative journey, he emphasized monotheism, dispelling ignorance and paving the way for a society grounded in foundational principles. Revolutionary ideas extended to accountability after death, where every individual faces resurrection and investigation into their deeds. This

2. Action-based Solution:
In a transformative era guided by Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) and the Holy Quran, practical measures reshaped society, fostering spiritual enlightenment and harmonious living. Gradually illuminating minds to discern good from evil. The Holy Quran served as a beacon, instilling wisdom and shaping individual conduct with nuanced moral awareness.
Acknowledging the perils of unchecked vices, proactive steps were taken. Societal norms were redirected, replacing prostitution with the sanctity of marriage, addressing root causes, and preventing the proliferation of evils.
Welfare schemes, including Zakat, Sadaqah, and Bait-ul-mal, were implemented strategically. Beyond charity, these systems uplifted the marginalized, ensuring economic stability and significantly reducing criminal activities like murder and robbery.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) resolutely prohibited practices aligned with evils, including alcohol, interest, and fraud. This bold stance dismantled societal corruption, affirming the commitment to justice and virtue.
To safeguard societal morals, Quranic guidance emphasized modesty for both men and women. Believers were instructed to lower their gaze, guard their private parts, and exercise purity and self-discipline.
3. Enforcing Justice:
In the realm of Islamic governance, penal laws serve as a deterrent against evils, upholding justice and preserving the moral fabric of the Muslim community. The Quranic prescription to cut off the hand of a thief signifies the gravity of jeopardizing society’s economic well-being, acting as both punishment and a deterrent for potential offenders. For those engaged in adultery, particularly married individuals, the Quranic mandate of stoning to death emphasizes Islam’s sanctity for marital bonds and discourages actions undermining marriage. Unmarried individuals guilty of sexual intercourse face one hundred lashes, emphasizing the importance of upholding chastity.
The Quranic emphasis on open punishments serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it aims to humiliate perpetrators, impressing upon them the severity of their actions. Secondly, these public penalties act as educational tools, ensuring the broader community understands the consequences of such sins. The intent is not only to punish but also to prevent the spread of sin within the community.

4. Ibadah and Good Deeds:
In Islam, the tapestry of spirituality is woven with the threads of Ibadah (worship) and virtuous deeds, offering a potent remedy against falsehood. Quranic verses and Hadith shed light on the transformative power of devotion in purifying the soul and repelling evil.
Surah Hud (11:114) highlights the role of regular prayer as a spiritual anchor, fortifying believers against the allure of falsehood. Surah Al-Ankabut (29:45) presents the Quran as a deterrent against indecency, guiding believers toward virtuous living. Fasting, recommended for those unable to marry, controls desires, purifying the soul. Zakat, a pillar, guards against greed, fostering compassion. Hajj, the fifth pillar, cleanses the soul and symbolizes a commitment to divine obedience, eradicating falsehood. These acts collectively form a spiritual arsenal, purifying individuals and contributing to a society grounded in truth and moral excellence.
5. Combined Efforts Against Evil Deeds
Evils must be actively resisted, whether through direct action, vocal opposition, or at the very least, by disapproving in one’s heart. Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) emphasized this, stating that changing evil with one’s hand is the strongest, with the tongue is the next best, and even disapproving in one’s heart, though the weakest, still reflects faith.
Battling against evils is more effective when done collectively, emphasizing the power of unity. The reluctance to join forces for good while evils persist raises questions about our priorities. Collaborative efforts can lead to initiatives such as principled journals and interest-free banks, contributing to positive societal change.
Conclusion:
The Muslim community bears the responsibility of actively opposing the spread of evils, guided by the Quran and Prophet Muhammad’s exemplary life. A distinct, proactive approach is vital, emphasizing unity, sincerity, defined long-term goals, and continual efforts. Muslims must voice out

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