Why Upholding Fairness Is a Divine Obligation — Not a Personal Preference

In today’s world, where truth is often twisted and silence is treated as safety, the Islamic command for justice remains uncompromising. Justice is not a political buzzword or a social media trend. In Islam, it’s a sacred duty.

We live in a time where injustice feels overwhelming — from global oppression to everyday unfairness in families, workplaces, and communities. Yet in the noise of it all, the Qur’an reminds us clearly: “Indeed, Allah commands justice…” (Qur’an 16:90)

This is not advice. It’s not a spiritual bonus. It’s a divine command.

Justice: A Foundational Command in the Qur’an

Islam doesn’t treat justice as optional or situational. It is central to our moral and spiritual fabric. Allah commands:

“O you who believe! Stand out firmly for Allah, as bearers of witness with justice. And let not the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just — that is nearer to piety…”
— Qur’an 5:8

Even in conflict, even when we are wronged — the obligation to be just doesn’t fade. In fact, it becomes more critical. Another verse deepens the responsibility:

“O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even though it be against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin…”
— Qur’an 4:135

The call to justice in Islam transcends personal bias, tribalism, nationalism, and emotional allegiance. That’s what makes it powerful — and rare.

The Prophet ﷺ: A Living Example of Uncompromising Justice

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ didn’t just preach justice — he lived it, consistently and courageously.

One of the most striking moments in his leadership came when a woman from a noble tribe committed theft. Some companions wanted her spared because of her status. But the Prophet ﷺ said:

“By Allah, if Fatimah, the daughter of Muhammad, were to steal, I would cut off her hand.”
— Sahih Bukhari

This wasn’t a callous act. It was a moment of principle: justice must apply equally, regardless of who you are. There is no special treatment in the eyes of divine law.

The Prophet ﷺ was also known to treat the poor, the enslaved, and the marginalized with respect and fairness, often upsetting the societal norms of the Quraysh elite. His life was a blueprint for justice with humility.

What Does Justice Look Like in Daily Life?

You don’t need a courtroom to practice justice. You need a conscience. Justice shows up in:

• How you discipline your children — are you acting fairly, or out of frustration?
• How you treat coworkers — do you take credit or give it where it’s due?
• How you resolve family disputes — are you neutral, or swayed by emotion or loyalty?
• How you share online — are you verifying what you post, or spreading harm?

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“It is enough falsehood for a person to speak of everything he hears.”
— Sunan Abi Dawud 4992

Even in speech and silence — justice is demanded.

Justice in Today’s World: What’s Our Role?

When we witness atrocities in Gaza, Sudan, East Turkestan, and elsewhere — what does our faith expect of us?

First, to never justify oppression — no matter who the oppressor is. Second, to speak the truth, even when unpopular. Third, to stand with the oppressed, not out of identity politics, but out of divine responsibility.

Allah says:

“And incline not toward those who do wrong, lest the Fire should touch you…”
— Qur’an 11:113

Silence in the face of injustice — whether in our homes or across the globe — is not neutrality. It’s complicity.

Justice Starts at Home

Before we call out injustice in governments or institutions, we need to examine ourselves:

• Are we being just with our spouses and children?
• Are we treating siblings equally in inheritance or affection?
• Are we being fair in business, with no deception or exploitation?
• Are we practicing emotional justice — not dismissing others' feelings or experiences?

Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA) once said:

“Hold yourself accountable before you are held accountable.”

Real justice begins with uncomfortable honesty.

How to Uphold Justice Daily

Here are some Islamic principles to help us live more justly:

1. Check Your Intentions: Justice starts from the heart. Purify it from ego, prejudice, or self-interest.
2. Educate Yourself: Know what injustice looks like — from racism to economic exploitation to gender bias.
3. Speak the Truth With Wisdom: You don’t have to be loud to be just. But you must be sincere and principled.
4. Act Fairly, Even When No One Sees: Integrity is justice in private. Don’t cut corners — not even in things you think are minor.
5. Make Dua for a Just Heart: Ask Allah to guide you. Because justice isn’t just legal — it’s deeply spiritual.

A Sacred Trust

Justice is not something we turn on when it's easy and off when it's hard. It is a sacred trust — between us and Allah.

“We sent Our messengers with clear proofs, and sent down with them the Book and the Balance so that people may uphold justice…”
— Qur’an 57:25

The Qur’an. The Prophet. The entire mission of Islam — all point to one goal: a just society rooted in mercy, truth, and accountability. Justice is not optional. It is Islam in action.

May Allah make us vessels of justice — in our homes, our work, and our world. And may He not make us among those who are silent in the face of wrong, but among those who stand firm with truth, no matter the cost. Ameen.