ISLAM NOTES

The nature of the Quran & why the Quran has supreme authority for Muslims

− -Muslims believe the Quran is the direct word of Allah.

− -It is divine, heavenly, and authentic & considered to be miracle.
− -The first surahto be revealed was surah ‘alaq. This happened in the cave
of hiraon the night of power (laylatul qadr)through the angel jibrail (a.s).
− The entire quran was revealed over a period of 23 years.
− The prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) would dictate the verses to his scribes & tell them
where to write each verse & where to place them.
− Many of the companions also memorised the quran.
− The quran is split into 114 surahs(chapters), 30 ajza (parts).
Each surahhas ayat (verses).
− All chapters begin with bismillah exceptsurah taubah.
− It was compiled into book form during the time of abu bakr (r.a) after a number
of huffaz were martyred. This responsibility was given to zaid ibn thabit (r.a).
− The copy was kept with hafsa (r.a), the daughter of umar (r.a).
− During the time of uthman (r.a), differences arose in its recitation. He asked for 7
copies to be made in the dialect of the quraish from the original that was kept with
hafsa (r.a), & had them distributed in different regions. All other copies were to be
disregarded.

AUTHORITY OF THE QURAN (KORAN)

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 The quran has supreme authority for the Muslims because:

− They believe it contains the exact words of Allah.

− It was brought to people through the final prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) as a
message to all of mankind.
− It was recited exactly by the prophet & recorded immediately & accurately by his
companions.
− It has never been changed, so they are sure their knowledge is correct.
− It’s a miracle from Allah because Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) didn’t know how to
read & write.
− It shows them how to follow the straight path.
− It inspires them to struggle in the cause of Allah.
− It makes clear to them their obligations & duties towards Allah.
− It enables them to practice their religion properly & to be guided.
− It encourages them through the examples of faithful believers.
− It develops love for Allah.

Respect for the quran.

− Muslims show respect for the quran by performing wudhu before touching it.
− Keeping it on a high place.
− Trying to follow & practice upon what it says.
− Reading it every day.
− Avoid eating & drinking whilst reading.
− Handle it with respect.

− Importance of revelation of holy quran to Prophet Muhammad

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− Revealed on the night of power in the cave of hira on the mountain of lightjabal
an-nur.
− It was the time when the first words of the quran were revealed.
− He became the final chosen messenger because he received this message from
Allah.
− It proves that the quran is the word of Allah.
− It was the beginning of many such revelations which continued for a period of 23
years.
− Quran is regarded as a great miracle.
− It restored the original message sent to previous prophets & clarified the errors of
previous nations.

− Every sound structure must have a solid foundation in order to remain strong.
Islam’s foundation is the five pillars it was built upon, forming the basis of Islamic
teaching as taught by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), wherein he said:

PILLARS OF ISLAM

− Islam is built upon five pillars:

− The Declaration of Faith (Shahadah);
2. Establishing regular prayers (Salah);
3. Paying Charity (Zakah);
4. Fasting the (lunar) month of Ramadan (Sawm);
5. Pilgrimage (Hajj)
− These five pillars are a cornerstone of a Muslim’s life.

Declaration of Faith – SHAHADAH

− The declaration of faith is bearing witness (testifying) that there is no deity worthy
of worship but Allah (God), and that Muhammad (peace be upon him) is His

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 Servant and Messenger. It must be based on a sincere and firm belief in the heart,
as well as being uttered verbally.
− The first part of the declaration implies that:
− No person, object or being has the right to be worshipped except Allah alone.
The Arabic name “Allah” refers to the One True God of all mankind and
everything that exists.

− Allah alone is the Creator and Sustainer of all that exists, and He has power over
all things.

− Allah alone has perfect attributes and is free from all deficiencies.

− Allah has no partner, equal, father, mother or son.

− The second part of the declaration is that Muhammad (peace be upon him) is
Allah’s Servant and final Messenger. He is the final Prophet in a long chain of
Prophets sent to call the people to the obedience and worship of Allah alone. Some
of these Prophets include Adam, Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph,
Moses, David, Solomon and Jesus (peace be upon them all).
− The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sent with the Qur’an (the final
revelation), in order to teach the people Allah’s message, and serve as an example
for all to follow.
− Some benefits of the Declaration of Faith:
− Complete surrender to the will of Allah and becoming His true servant and
subject.

− Produces a high degree of self-respect and confidence, while also remaining

humble and modest.

− Produces strong determination, patience and perseverance, making a person

brave and courageous, as well as dutiful and upright.

− Makes a person obey and observe Allah’s commands.

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 The Prayer – SALAH

− “Indeed, I am Allah! There is none worthy of worship but I, so worship Me and offer
the prayer for My remembrance.”Qur’an 20:14

− The five daily prayers form the most important ritual of worship in a Muslim’s life;
one each at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset and nightfall. Prophet Muhammad
(peace be upon him) said: “Prayer is a pillar of the religion (Islam). Whoever
establishes it, establishes religion; and whoever destroys it (e.g. neglects it),
destroys religion.”
− Prayer establishes a personal and spiritual connection between the Muslim and his
Creator, based on faith, love, hope and reverence. When prayer is performed
correctly with complete concentration, humility and sincerity, it will have an
enduring effect on the person, filling his heart with contentment, peace and
closeness with Allah.
− Prayer is the centre of a Muslim’s life and the best way to achieve submission to
Allah. It can be offered almost anywhere clean: such as in fields, offices, factories
or universities; and takes only a few minutes to perform. It consists of recitation
from the Holy Qur’an, supplicating to and praising Allah, with various body
postures such as standing, bowing, prostrating and sitting. Through prayer, the
Muslim remembers the greatness of his Creator and supplicates to Him for his
needs and wishes.
− Repeatedly humbling oneself before Allah prevents a person from falling into sin,
and is a type of purification for one’s soul, as mentioned in the Qur’an: “Verily, the
prayer prevents one from the shameful and evil deeds.” Qur’an 29:45. Prayer is
also an opportunity for repentance and seeking forgiveness from Allah.
− The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) asked his companions, “If one of you
had a river by his door in which he bathed five times a day, would any filth
remain on him?” They replied, “No.” Then the Prophet added “Likewise, Allah
wipes away sins with the five daily prayers.”

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 The Prescribed Charity – ZAKAH

− “Those who establish the prayer (salah) and give the charity (zakah) … these are
the ones who will prosper.”Qur’an 31:4-5

− All things belong to Allah, including wealth, which is considered as a trust. The
prescribed charity (zakah) is an obligation on every Muslim who meets certain
criteria (e.g. attained maturity, is sane, has wealth above a certain threshold). A
small portion of wealth (includes 2.5% monetary and may include other assets)
which must be paid annually to those who are eligible, as prescribed in the Qur’an
(e.g. the poor and needy).
− The Prophet (peace be on him) said:“Allah has made zakah obligatory simply to
purify your remaining wealth.”
− The meaning of the word “zakah”, is both ‘purification’ and ‘growth’. This is similar
to the pruning of plants, whereby regularly trimming provides balance and
encourages growth. By fulfilling this obligation, Muslims purify their remaining
wealth, as well as ensure both financial and spiritual growth.
− Some benefits of zakah:
− Purifies one from selfishness, arrogance and a greedy heart.

− Trains one to be sympathetic and compassionate towards the poor and needy.

− Reminds one of the blessings from Allah and encourages one to be grateful.

− Bridges the gap between different socio-economic classes and groups, and is a
form of social security.

− Reduces poverty and ensures equality by making it obligatory upon the rich to
share some of their wealth with the less fortunate “…so that this (wealth) may
not circulate solely among the rich from among you.” Qur’an 59:7

− A person may also give as much as they please as additional voluntary charity.

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 Fasting – SAWM

− ”Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you
may attain piety.”Qur’an 2:183

− As with any act of worship, fasting requires obedience and submission to Allah’s
commands through the highest degree of commitment and sincerity. Every year
during the month of Ramadan (the 9th month of the lunar calendar), Muslims fast
from dawn until sunset, abstaining from three key human needs – food, drink and
sexual relations. One should also abstain from all sinful actions.
− Fasting during Ramadan is obligatory on every physically and mentally capable
adult Muslim. Children, the sick, the mentally unfit, the elderly, menstruating
women, and travellers are exempt.
− Some benefits of fasting:
− Promotes spiritual self-purification and growth.

− Scientifically proven health benefits.

− Sympathy for those less fortunate, prompting more charity.

− A means of learning self-restraint and patience.

− Purifies the soul and helps it acquire the habit of obeying Allah by restraining
desires, and promotes steadfastness.

− Creates an increased feeling of unity and collective identity amongst those

fasting.

− Creates an increased awareness about the state of affairs across the globe and
the hardships endured.

− Forgiveness of sins. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “He who fasts
Ramadan, with faith and hoping for reward (from Allah), then his past sins are
forgiven.”

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 Pilgrimage – HAJJ

− “And Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka‘bah) is a duty that mankind
owes to Allah, for those who can afford the expenses (for one’s transportation,
provision and residence).”Qur’an 3:97

− Pilgrimage to the Holy city of Makkah (in Saudi Arabia) and other sacred sites must
be performed at least once in a person’s life, if they are physically and financially
capable.
− Performing the pilgrimage is a temporary suspension of all worldly activities, and is
a time for one to reflect, worship, seek the forgiveness of Allah and attain His
closeness.
− The Pilgrimage is an annual event in the 12th month of the lunar calendar (Dhul-
Hijjah in Arabic), which unifies people of every colour, race, status and age, as they
join in worship of the One True God. All pilgrims wear simple and similar clothing,
which strips away distinctions of class and culture, so that all stand equal before
Allah.
− Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever performs Hajj and
does not utter obscenities or commit sin, will come back just like the day when
his mother bore him (i.e. pure of sins).”
− Hajj involves following in the footsteps of Prophet Abraham, as taught to us by
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon them). This great act of worship consists of
many components including sacrificing an animal, supplicating, visiting and praying
at various sites, circling the Ka’bah, walking between two mountains, as well as
many other rituals, all of which are performed over a period of 6 continuous days.
− Such an experience is life-altering and humbles a person, making them more
patient and thankful to Allah. Brotherhood is increased, as is the sense that all
Muslims, regardless of their differences, are one nation.

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 Conclusion

− The five pillars of Islam have been prescribed by Allah, and a Muslim is required to
believe and act according to them. They are practical as well as easy, and the
blessings and wisdom behind them are manifold. When put into perspective, they
contribute to the well being of both the individual and the society, enhancing the
character and manners of the individual, and making both society and individuals
accountable and closer to Allah.
− These noble pillars of Islam are purely for the benefit of His creation, as Allah (Glory
be to Him!) is free of all needs. These five pillars provide the solid structure and
‘training programme’ for the betterment and success of all humanity.

tttT

THE SHARIA LAW

− Monotheism, belief in one God, is the most important and foundational concept in
Islam. Muslims believe in one God who created the universe and has power over
everything within it. He is unique and exalted above everything He creates, and His
greatness cannot be compared to His creation. Furthermore, He is the only one
deserving of any worship and the ultimate purpose of all creation is to submit to
Him. The Islamic understanding of God is distinct from all other religions and
beliefs in various respects since it is based on a pure and clear understanding of
monotheism. This essentially captures the concept of God in Islam, which will be
further elaborated in this pamphlet.
− Muslims often refer to God as Allah. This is a universal name for God and does not
refer to an exclusively ‘Islamic’ God. Interestingly, this name is related to the

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 Aramaic and Hebrew names for God, Allaha and Elohim. Therefore, Allah is simply
the Arabic name for God which affirms that He is One singular God with no
partners or equals. The name Allah cannot be pluralized or limited to a specific
gender, which establishes that God is One and that He is unique from everything
He creates. Muslims continue to use this original Arabic name for God (Allah) since
it perfectly expresses His unique qualities.
− God is the Creator and the Sustainer of the universe who created everything for a
reason. Muslims believe that He created humankind with a simple purpose – to
worship Him. He sent messengers to guide people in fulfilling this purpose. Some
of these messengers include Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and
Muhammad, peace be upon all of them. They all taught a consistent message
about God by affirming His greatness as the Creator and guiding people to
worship Him alone. This basic concept has always resonated with people’s natural
understanding of God. (Click here to learn more about prophets in Islam.)
− When the final prophet, Muhammad, peace be upon him (pbuh), was asked about
God, the answer came directly from God in the holy book of Muslims, the Quran
(also spelled ‘Koran’): “Say, ‘He is God the One, God the eternal. He begot no one
nor was He begotten. No one is comparable to Him.’” [112:1-4] This is a clear
statement by God describing Himself to humanity without any room for confusion.
God is One and is exalted above everything He creates and He is capable over all
things.
− Sharia law is the law of Islam. The Sharia (also spelled Shari'a orShariah) law is cast
fromMuhammad's words, called "hadith," his actions, called "sunnah," and
theQuran, which he dictated. Sharia law itself cannot be altered, but the
interpretation of Sharia law, called "fiqh," by muftis (Islamic jurists) is given some
latitude.
− As a legal system, Sharia law is exceptionally broad. While other legal codes
regulate public behavior, Sharia law regulates public behavior, private behavior,
and even private beliefs. Compared to other legal codes, Sharia law also prioritizes

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punishment over rehabilitation, and the penalties under Sharia law favor corporal
and capital punishments over incarceration. Of all legal systems in the world today,
Sharia law is deemed the most intrusive and restrictive, especially against women
(see below), and is making inroads into Western democracies (see Sharia law in
America, Canada,Europe and UK).

According to Sharia law (see links for details):

• Theft is punishable by amputation of the hands (Quran 5:38 - includes
graphic image).
• Criticizing or denying any part of the Quran is punishable by death.
• Criticizing Muhammad or denying that he is a prophet is punishable by
death.
• Criticizing or denying Allah is punishable by death (see Allah moon god).
• A Muslim who becomes a non-Muslim is punishable by death
(SeeCompulsion).
• A non-Muslim who leads a Muslim away from Islam is punishable by death.
• A non-Muslim man who marries a Muslim woman is punishable by death.
• A woman or girl who has been raped cannot testify in court against her
rapist(s).
• Testimonies of 4 male witnesses are required to prove rape of a female
(Quran 24:13).
• A woman or girl who alleges rape without producing 4 male witnesses is
guilty of adultery.
• A woman or girl found guilty of adultery is punishable by death (see
"Islamophobia").
• A male convicted of rape can have his conviction dismissed by marrying
his victim.
• Muslim men have sexual rights to any woman/girl not wearing
theHijab (see Taharrush).
• A woman can have 1 husband, who can have up to 4
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 wives;Muhammad can have more.
• A man can marry an infant girl and consummate the marriage when she
is 9 years old.
• Girls' clitoris should be cut (Muhammad's words, Book 41, Kitab Al-Adab,
Hadith 5251).
• A man can beat his wife for insubordination (see Quran 4:34and Religion
of Peace).
• A man can unilaterally divorce his wife; a wife needs her husband's
consent to divorce.
• A divorced wife loses custody of all children over 6 years of age or when
they exceed it.
• A woman's testimony in court, allowed in property cases, carries ½the
weight of a man's.
• A female heir inherits half of what a male heir inherits (seeMathematics in
Quran).
• A woman cannot drive a car, as it leads to fitnah (upheaval).
• A woman cannot speak alone to a man who is not her husband or relative.
• Meat to eat must come from animals that have been sacrificed to Allah -
i.e., be "Halal."
• Muslims are to subjugate the world under Islam (see Quran
9:29and Palestine Issue).
• Muslims should engage in Taqiyyaand lie to non-Muslims to advance
Islam.
•
Who Is the Prophet Muhammad ?
− Muhammad was born in Makkah in the year 570. Since his father died before his
birth and his mother died shortly thereafter, he was raised by his uncle who was
from the respected tribe of Quraysh. He was raised illiterate, unable to read or
write, and remained so till his death. His people, before his mission as a prophet,

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 were ignorant of science and most of them were illiterate. As he grew up, he
became known to be truthful, honest, trustworthy, generous, and sincere. He was
so trustworthy that they called him the Trustworth
− Muhammad was very religious, and he had long detested the decadence and
idolatry of his society.
− At the age of forty, Muhammad received his first revelation from God through the
Angel Gabriel. The revelations continued for twenty-three years, and they are
collectively known as the Quran.
− As soon as he began to recite the Quran and to preach the truth which God had
revealed to him, he and his small group of followers suffered persecution from
unbelievers. The persecution grew so fierce that in the year 622 God gave them
the command to emigrate. This emigration from Makkah to the city of Madinah,
some 260 miles to the north, marks the beginning of the Muslim calendar.
− After several years, Muhammad and his followers were able to return to Makkah,
where they forgave their enemies. Before Muhammad died, at the age of sixty-
three, the greater part of the Arabian Peninsula had become Muslim, and within a
century of his death, Islam had spread to Spain in the West and as far East as
China. Among the reasons for the rapid and peaceful spread of Islam was the
truth and clarity of its doctrine. Islam calls for faith in only one God, Who is the
only one worthy of worship.
− The Prophet Muhammad was a perfect example of an honest, just, merciful,
compassionate, truthful, and brave human being. Though he was a man, he was
far removed from all evil characteristics and strove solely for the sake of God and
His reward in the Hereafter. Moreover, in all his actions and dealings, he was ever
mindful and fearful of God.

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 Ten reasons Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬was the best Prophet of all time.

− As Muslims, it is mandatory that we believe in all Prophets and Messengers of God,

without making any distinction between them. As Allah states in the Quran regarding
the believers:
− “All of them have believed in Allah and His angels and His books and His
messengers, [saying], “We make no distinction between any of His
messengers.”

− Quran 2:285

− Nevertheless, although we make no distinction in terms of believing that all Prophets

and Messengers were sent by God, whether it be Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus
and of course Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬, we do in fact favour certain Prophets amongst others.

− As Allah also states in the Quran:

− “Those messengers – some of them We caused to exceed others.

Among them were those to whom Allah spoke, and He raised some of
them in degree…”

− Quran 2:253

− On saying this, we as Muslims wholeheartedly believe that Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬was

the greatest of all Prophets due to the many evidences available. We have compiled a
list of ten of the strongest signs that prove this, along with their accompanying
references.

[Link] was the final Messenger sent by God to the entirety of humanity.
− Allah states in the Quran:

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 − “Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Apostle
of God, and the Seal of the Prophets: and God has full knowledge of all
things.

− Quran 33:40

− Thawban also narrated that the Messenger of Allah ‫ ﷺ‬said:

− “…And I am the last of the Prophets, there is no Prophet after me.”

2. He was given the Quran, the final revelation of God.

− Allah states in the Quran:

− He has sent down upon you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth,

confirming what was before it. And He revealed the Torah and the
Gospel.

− Quran 3:3

3. He was granted the largest following.

− The Messenger of Allah ‫ ﷺ‬said:
“Amongst the apostles I would have the largest following on the Day of
Resurrection, and I would be the first to knock at the door of Paradise.”

4. He is the leader of the children of Adam.

5. He will be the first to be resurrected.
6. He will be the first to intercede on the Day of Judgement.
− Abu Hurayrah, narrated that the Messenger of Allah ‫ ﷺ‬said:

− “I will be the leader of the sons of Adam on the Day of Resurrection, and
the first one for whom the grave will be opened, and the first to
intercede, and the first whose intercession will be accepted.’”

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 7. He will be the first to cross the Siraat bridge over Hell Fire.
− It was narrated that ‘Ata bin Yazid said:

− “I was sitting with Abu Hurairah and Abu Sa’eed. One of them narrated
the hadith about intercession and the other was listening. He said: ‘Then
the angels will come and intercede, and the messengers will intercede.’
And he mentioned the Sirat, and said: “The Messenger of Allah (‫ )ﷺ‬said: ‘I
will be the first one to cross it…”

[Link] will be the first to enter Paradise.

− Anas bin Malik narrated that the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬said:

− “I will come to the gate of Paradise on the Day of Resurrection and will
ask for it to be opened. The keeper will say: ‘Who are you?’ I will say,
‘Muhammad.’ He will say: ‘I was commanded not to open it for anyone
before you.”

[Link] was granted the Maqaam Al-Mahmoud (The Praised Station).

− Allah states in the Quran:

− “It may be that your Lord will raise you to Maqaam Al-Mahmoud (a station
of praise and glory).”
Quran 17:79

− Ibn Jareer said,

− “Most of the commentators said that is the position which he ‫ ﷺ‬will

occupy in order to intercede for the people on the Day of Resurrection,
to ask that their Lord might grant them respite from the great hardship
that they are suffering on this Day.”

10. He led all the Prophets in Prayer during the Night Journey.

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 − This proves that our Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬is the greatest leader, and as it was stated
by Ibn Katheer at the beginning of his commentary on Surah Al-Isra’: “Then his
honourable status and superiority to them was manifested when he was made to go
forward to lead them in prayer, when Jibreel (peace be upon him) indicated to him that
he should do so.”
− These are just a selection of the proofs that indicate that the Prophet Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬
was the greatest of all Prophets to have walked this Earth. May the peace and blessings
of Allah, God Almighty, be upon him, his family and his companions.

THE STATUS OF WOMEN IN SLAM

Introduction
− The status of women in Islam is one of the crucial topics and dominant themes in
the modern era, which theologians have been studying. Islam regards men and
women as being of the same essence created from a single soul. A woman has a
completely independent personality in Islam. In this paper, I will provide an
overview of the status of women in Islam in general and then I will focus on the
issue of equality.
− One important part of the discussion will be devoted to clarify the conceptual
context and the relevant terminology of the subject of inheritance and to explain
certain rulings of inheritance in Islamic law that may seem at first glance to be in
conflict with the idea of equality.
Status of Woman in Islam
− In the Islamic perspective, a woman has an honoured position. She has special
respect, love, affection and gentle feeling along with her legal and civil rights.

− Is she not the compassionate mother?

− Is she not the beloved wife?

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− Is she not the affectionate daughter?

− Actually Islam expresses the best explanation for a woman’s true image in the
following verses from the Qur’an:
− We have enjoined man to be kind to his parents. His mother has carried him in
travail, and bore him in travail, and his gestation and weaning take thirty
months. When he comes of age and reaches forty years, he says, ‘My Lord!
Inspire me to give thanks for Your blessing with which You have blessed me
and my parents, and that I may do righteous deeds which may please You, and
invest my descendants with righteousness. Indeed I have turned to you in
penitence, and I am one of the muslims.’ (46:15)

− Your Lord has decreed that you shall not worship anyone except Him, and [He
has enjoined] kindness to parents. Should they reach old age at your side –
one of them or both- do not say to them, ‘Fie!’ And do not chide them, but
speak to them noble words. Lower the wing of humility to them, out of mercy,
and say, ‘My Lord! Have mercy on them, just as they reared me when I was [a]
small [child]!’ (17:23 & 24)
− Do not covet the advantage which God has given some of you over others. To
men belongs a share of what they have earned, and to women a share of what
they have earned. And ask God for His grace. (4:32)
− Similar to the Qur’an, the Prophetic hadiths also emphasize the honour and respect
of women within such a frame of love, endearment and affection. This is especially
true when the hadiths teach about the mother, the wife and the daughter. For
example, the Prophet said:
− Observe your duty to God in respect to the women, and recommend them to be
well treated.

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− He also said:
− I do not think that a man gets better in faith without loving women better.
− The Prophet had a daughter whom he loved very deeply and tenderly. He used to
say: “Fatimah is a part of me; whoever wrongs her wrongs me and who pleases her
pleases me.
− He visited her frequently; and on his return from any journey he called on her first
before going to his own home. Whenever she approached, his eyes glowed with
joy. He would take her in his arm, kiss her warmly and offer her his own seat.
Indeed this kind, tender pattern is an ideal model for mankind.
− A man came to the Prophet and asked him, “O messenger of God! Whom should I
be more dutiful to?” The Prophet replied: “To your mother.” He asked, then to
whom. Then he replied: “To your mother.” The man again asked, then to whom.
Then the Prophet replied: “To your father.”
Equality
− Islam considers both men and women equally human and grants them equal
human rights. Though their tasks and functions may sometimes differ, they both
have opportunities for achieving perfection and closeness to God. The following
verses from the Qur’an and sayings of the Prophet support this argument. For
example, God says:
• mankind! Indeed We created you from a male and a female, and
made you nations and tribes that you may identify with one
another. Indeed the noblest of you in the sight of God is the most
Godwary among you. Indeed God is All-knowing, All-aware.
(49:13)
• mankind! Be wary of your Lord who created you from a single
soul, and created its mate from it, and, from the two of them,
scattered numerous men and women. (4:1)
− Also Prophet Muhammad (S) said:

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− All people are equal, as the teeth of a comb. There is no claim of merit of an Arab
and non-Arab, or a white over a black person, or a male over a female. Only Allah-
fearing people merit a preference with God.5
− The most important sources in Islamic thought i.e. the Qur’an and Sunnah both
confer the great message of universal equality among all mankind. The above texts
are just a few examples and there are many more available.
− Apart from this, there are hundreds of verses which take the form of address: “O
mankind, or “O believer” which refer to both men and women. Both have similar
duties to perform; for instance prayer, rituals, fasting, to command to good and to
prohibit from evil. Moral virtues such as tolerance, truthfulness, honesty are
required from both. According to Islam, personal superiority is only based on piety.
− Islam’s regard for women is not simply giving her a chance to survive. Muslims,
men and women, are told to seek knowledge and education wherever they find it
and to use this knowledge to help fellow human beings. This is a duty about which
they will be questioned on Judgement Day. History tells us about the immense
contribution of Muslim women to the community. One lady i.e. the Lady Khadijah,
daughter of Khuwaylid, and one young boy were the first to believe in Islam. Lady
Khadijah was a great supporter of Islam and the Prophet.

An analysis of equality

− There are four logical characteristics of equality, which are crucial in Qur’anic
perspective:

− Equality in religious matters;

− Equality in ethical obligations and rewards;

− Equality in education;

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− Equality in legal rights.

Equality in religious matters

− The Qur’an commands equality for men and women regarding religious obligations
and rewards. We read:
− Indeed the muslim (or submissive) men and the muslim (or submissive)
women, the faithful men and the faithful women, the obedient men and the
obedient women, the truthful men and the truthful women, the patient men
and the patient women, the humble men and the humble women, the
charitable men and the charitable women, the men who fast and the women
who fast, the men who guard their private parts and the women who guard,
the men who remember God greatly and the women who remember [God
greatly]-God holds in store for them forgiveness and a great reward. (33:35)
Equality in ethical obligations and rewards
− Secondly, the Qur’an reveals to mankind the desired equality of the two sexes by
establishing the same ethical obligations and rewards for women and men:
− And whoever does righteous deeds, whether male or female, should he or she
be faithful -such shall enter paradise and they will not be wronged [so much
as] the speck on a date-stone. (4:124)
− Whoever acts righteously, [whether] male or female, should he be faithful, -
We shall revive him with a good life and pay them their reward by the best of
what they used to do. (16:97)
− If God had not deemed the two sexes of equal status and value, such explicit
statements of their equality in ethical obligations and rewards would not have been
made in the Qur’an.
Equality in education
− Although the more specific commands for the equal rights of women and men to
pursue education can be found in the hadith literature, the Qur’an does at least
imply the pursuit of knowledge by all Muslims regardless of their sex. For example,

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 it repeatedly commands all readers to read, to recite, to think, to contemplate, and
as well as to learn from the signs (ayat) of God in nature. In fact, the very first
revelation to Prophet Muhammad (S) was concerned with the message of
knowledge.
− In the Qur’anic perspective there can never be a restriction of this knowledge to
one sex. It is the duty of every Muslim man and every Muslim woman to pursue
knowledge throughout life, even if it should lead the seeker to “China,” we are told.
The Prophet even commanded that the slave girls be educated, and he asked
Shifa’ bint ‘Abdillah to educate his own wife – Hafsah bint ‘Umar.
− Audiences of both men and women attended lectures of the Prophet; and by the
time of the Prophet’s death, there were many women scholars.6

Equality in legal rights

− A fourth evidence in the Qur’an for the equality of men and women is its
specification of legal rights which are guaranteed for every individual from cradle
to grave. The Qur’an proclaims the right of both women and men in enjoying full
legal rights. She may buy, sell, earn a living and manage her own money and
property. In Islam the woman has a legally independent personality and her
obligations are independent from those of her father, husband or brother.
− Thus, the woman in Islam enjoys all rights and is treated equal to man in this
respect.
− In addition to these rights, the Qur’an grants the woman a share in the inheritance
of the family (4:7-11) and warns against depriving her of that inheritance (4:19),
specifies that the dowry (mahr) of her marriage should belong to her alone and
never be taken by her husband (2:229; 4:19-21 & 25) unless presented by the
woman herself as a free gift (4:44).
− As with any privilege, these rights of women carry corresponding responsibilities. If
she commits a civil offence, the Qur’an tells us, a woman’s penalty is no less or no

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 more than that of a man in a similar case (e.g. 24:2). If she is wronged or harmed,
she is entitled to compensation just like a man.
− It is clear that the Qur’an not only recommends, but is also insistent upon, the
equality of women and men as an essential characteristic in the Qur’anic
perspective.

A critical analysis of equality

− There are some discussions about a woman’s equality in her inheritance, education
and social rights. As we have already discussed, the religion of Islam has clearly
required that equality has to be exercised regardless of the physical gender.
However, there may be a difference between the theory of Islam and the practice
of Muslims. In order to understand what Islam has established for woman, there is
no need to look at wrong customs that may exist in some Muslim societies.
− Objectively, religion means humanity, not cruelty or brutality. However, some
cultures may have just a mask of Islam but in reality there are some local cultural
problems behind the mask. For example, one writer says:
− Men’s energies should be expended in worship, religious activities and in the
search of knowledge.
− This is to be attained by making women devote themselves to serving their men in
the home, preparing food and drink, washing, cleaning and caring for the children
and elderly.
− However, the above ideas are not related to genuine Islamic perspectives as
demonstrated in the Qur’an and Hadith. This writer has just reverted back to pre-
Islamic culture. Based upon the above texts from the Qur’an and Sunnah, these
ideas are not plausible. If we were to ask the writer, “where are these
characteristics in the Qur’an and Hadiths?” we will be assured of a silence that
would speak volumes.
− According to Islamic point of view, a woman has no obligation to prepare food and
drink, wash and clean for her husband or his family. Of course, husbands and wives

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 who form a family, should share and care to maintain family life with mutual
understanding.
− In the case of inheritance, the question of equality is fully applicable. In principle,
both man and woman are equally entitled to inherit the property of the deceased
relation but the portions they get may vary. In some instances man receives two
shares whereas woman gets only one. This is no sign of giving preference or
supremacy to man over woman. The reasons why a man gets more in these
particular instances may be classified as follows:
− First, a man is solely responsible for the complete maintenance of his wife, his
family and any other needy relations. It is his duty by Law to assume all financial
responsibilities and maintain his dependents adequately. It is also his duty to
contribute financially to all good causes in his society. All financial burdens are
borne by him alone.
− In contrast, a woman has no financial responsibilities whatsoever except very little
of her personal expenses, e.g. the high luxurious things that she likes to have. She is
financially secure and provided for.
− If she is a wife, her husband is the provider; if she is a mother, it is the son; if she is
a daughter, it is the father; if she is a sister; it is the brother, and so on. If she has no
relations on whom she can depend, then there is no question of inheritance
because there is nothing to inherit and there is no one to bequeath anything to her.
− Even if she has no one to look after she will not be left to starve; maintenance of
such a woman is the responsibility of the society as a whole and the state. She
must be given aid or a job to earn her living, and whatever money she makes will be
hers. So, in the hardest situation a woman’s financial responsibility is limited, while
a man’s financial responsibility is unlimivements for Muslim women to seek roles in
national leadership have increased rapidly. Greater opportunities for women in
education have further encouraged their involvement in politics.
− The most prominent Muslim female leaders are former prime minister
ofPakistanBenazir Bhutto (served 1988-1990 and 1993-1996), Indonesian

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 President Megawati Sukarnoputri(became president 2001), former Turkish Prime
Minister Tansu Ciller(served 1993-1995), former Senegalese Prime Minister Mame
Madior Boye(appointed 2001), Bangladeshi Prime Ministers Begum Khaleda
Zia (served 1991–96 and 2001–06) and Sheikh Hasina Wajed (served 1996-01,
2009–present), former Iranian Vice PresidentMasoumeh Ebtekar (served 1997–
2005), Malian president Cissé Mariam Kaïdama Sidibé (elected in 2011), Kosovan
President Atifete Jahjaga(served 2011–16), current President of Mauritius Bibi
Ameenah Firdaus Gurib-Fakim (elected in 2015) and Current President of
Singapore Halimah Yacob(elected in 2017)
− Dar al-Ifta al-Misriyyah, an Islamic institute that advises Egypt's ministry of justice,
issued a fatwa stating that female rulers and judges are allowed in Islam.[2]
− The Qur’an contains verses that appear to support the role of women in politics,
such as its mention of the Queen of Sheba, who represented a ruler who consulted
with and made important decisions on behalf of her [Link],
the Hadith provides numerous examples of women having public leadership
roles. Muhammad’s first wifeKhadija bint Khuwaylid was his chief adviser as well as
his first and foremost supporter. His third wife Aisha Abu Bakr, a well-known
authority in medicine, history, and rhetoric, often accompanied the Prophet to
battles, even leading an army at the Battle of the [Link], it is also within
the context of this battle that a famous hadith is ascribed to Muhammad where he
says "Never will succeed such a nation as makes a woman their ruler."However,
contemporary scholars have cast doubt on the authenticity of this Hadith, citing
the odd timing of the Hadith's first release, its contradiction with the verses of the
Quran, and the most likely use of the Hadith for a specific person at the time
(Queen of Persia) rather than as a general rule or advice.
− Though leadership opportunities for Muslim women are cemented in religious text
and continue to expand today, earlier generations had different understandings of
women’s roles.

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 − Despite modern developments and greater inclusion of Muslim women in political
life, there are Muslims in certain countries who maintain that the ideal Muslim
woman should confine herself to the role of mother and [Link], there have
been scholars in a variety of religious faiths and cultures that have advocated for
the same thing.

Ethics in Islam

Islam has the unique capacity to transform its various theological tenets and values
into practical and moral principles. In fact, the Islamic Shariah was specifically established
with an eye to instilling gracious behavior and lofty morals among its adherents and to
refine their characters, all of which contributes to general well being among people and
throughout the land.

These goals are aimed at guaranteeing a safe and peaceful existence for each
person and protecting all aspects of the lives of individuals, whether in the arena of
beliefs, wealth, honor, or peace of mind.

- According to Islam, human well being begins and ends with manners and morals. It
begins with the call for people to accept guidance and righteousness and culminates in
producing behaviors among human beings indicative of humanity, nobility, and love.

- Islam has set down laws and rules which, by their nature, serve to ensure the
establishment of good morals and manners within Islamic society, whether at the level of
individuals as they deal with one another or at the level of societies in the greater world.
These rules ensure the survival and protection of Islam’s ethical structure, thus allowing
human beings to live among one another on the basis of peace and mutual cooperation.

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- There are regulations governing the poor due, charity, pledges, expiations, and financial
guarantees as well as rules touching upon joint responsibilities necessary to the
preservation of a stable society among Muslims. There are rules regarding the
punishment of criminals, traitors, killers, and adulterers due to the fact that their disregard
for moral values poses a threat to the group and transgresses against society and its
integrity. It is necessary to treat such offenders harshly in order to guarantee a safe and
peaceful society.

Concept of Jihad

Meaning of Jihad

-Jihad is an Arabic term, and its plain connotation is “to strive or work hard for
something”. So, it does not mean “the Holy War” against non- Muslims, which the West
has associated with it. The absolute analysis of this religious action is divided in to two
sections, Major and Minor Jihad. The former is a spiritual effort which binds a Muslim to
fight its inner self against the satanic desires. It is an ongoing process throughout one`s
life till death. The latter form is the physical struggle against the enemies of Islam. But it is
greatly mistaken as a means of violence, although in Islam, there is no room for killing of
blameless, but should only be used for defending oneself against the enemies. For further
elaborating the delicacy of this matter, let us discuss it in the light of the Holy Quran and
the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH).

Jihad in Quran

-Like any other obligatory and supreme acts in the religion of Islam, Jihad is also a God
given responsibility to the Muslims, which should only be analyzed according to the
Sacred Scripture i.e. The Holy Quran, and not what the uninformed people do by
manipulating its actual denotation. Allah SWT says in Furqan e Hameed:

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“The ones who have believed, emigrated and striven in the cause of Allah with their wealth
and their lives are greater in rank in the sight of Allah. And it is those who are the attainers
(of success).” [Quran, 9: 20]

-So, Jihad is actually the name of doing one`s best in terms of both fighting and
expending everything one has. As property is among the most important things one has,
so it is imperative to spend as much as one can, besides going in to direct battle with the
enemies of Islam.

-Now, the act of warfare needs to be elaborated, as it is greatly misjudged and linked with
wrong motives. Allah Almighty says in the Holy Quran:

“Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed. Allah does
not like transgressors.” [Quran, 2: 190]

-The phrase “Who Fight You” clearly indicates that the Almighty has ordered to clash with
only those who brawl with Muslims and try to destroy them. So, there is no way one could
say that Jihad is an alternate name for spreading aggression and slaughtering people. It
also means that one cannot instigate a war against others, but only to defend themselves.

-After it has become evident that Jihad is only meant for self defense and not the other
way around, it is necessary to have a look at the following verse in the same Chapter
(Surah Baqarah):

“And kill them wherever you overtake them and expel them from wherever they
have expelled you ……… And if they cease, then indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.”
[Quran, 2: 191-192]

-Haters of Islam only quote the very first line of the above verses, and argue that Muslims
are cruel and are meant to kill others wherever they find them, but that is not actually true.
It has been added in the following verse by Allah SWT that if they ask for mercy, then

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there is no need to fight and kill them. This is the whole concept of Jihad from above lines
of Quran and it should not be misquoted.

-On another instant, the Almighty said:

-Would you not fight a people who broke their oaths and determined to expel the
Messenger, and they had begun [the attack upon] you the first time? Do you fear them?
But Allah has more right that you should fear Him, if you are [truly] believers. [Quran, 9: 13]

-So, its crystal clear from the previous lines of Quran that combating is only obligated
once Muslims are under attack, and when they need to protect themselves.

-Jihad is said to be “fighting for the cause of Allah”, but there is increased requisite to
comprehend what this phrase actually means, as the word fighting is being misused by
extremist organizations operating in different regions of the word and portray it as the
religious duty. Allah SWT says in the Holy Quran:

“And what is [the matter] with you that you fight not in the cause of Allah and [for] the
oppressed among men, women, and children who say, “Our Lord, take us out of this city
of oppressive people and appoint for us from Yourself a protector and appoint for us
from Yourself a helper?” [Quran, 4: 75]

-Many of the believers and newly admitted persons to Islam still resided in the land of
Makkah even after mass migration to Madina of Muslims under the Messenger (PBUH) of
God earlier. Those who were left behind were severely dealt with and oppressed by the
polytheists and disbelievers. Then, God, the Exalted directed Muslims to help them save
from tyranny and repression they were facing. It means that effort made for this cause is
Jihad and is dear to Allah.

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-So, the perception of Jihad in Quran revolves around striving in Allah`s Cause, fighting
when being attacked by rivals, helping out the oppressed ones, and have peace if they
cease to fight.

Islam and Environment.

-Environment protection is an important aspect of Islam. Being stewards of the Earth, it is

the responsibility of Muslims to care for the environment in a proactive manner. There is a
definite purpose behind the creation of different species, be it plants or animals. Muslims
are encouraged to reflect on the relationship between living organisms and their
environment and to maintain the ecological balance created by Allah. Protection of the
environment is essential to Islamic beliefs and mankind has the responsibility to ensure
safe custody of the environment.

Environment Protection and Resource Conservation

-The Islamic perspective on environment protection reflects a positive image about Islam
and how it embraces every single matter the humans face on earth. The Islamic attitude
towards environment and natural resource conservation is not only based on prohibition
of over-exploitation but also on sustainable development. The Holy Quran says:

"It is He who has appointed you viceroys in the earth … that He may try you in what He has
given you." (Surah 6:165)

-"O children of Adam! … eat and drink: but waste not by excess, for Allah loves not the
wasters." (Surah 7:31)

-Prophet Muhammad (SAW) encouraged the planting of trees and the cultivation of
agriculture which are considered as good acts. This is illustrated in the following
traditions: Narrated by Anas bin Malik (RA) that Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said: "There is

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none amongst the Muslims who plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person
or an animal eats from it, but is regarded as a charitable gift for him." (Bukhari).

-Islam is against the cutting or destruction of plants and trees unnecessarily as is evident
in the following Hadith: Abdullah ibn Habashi reported that Prophet Muhammad (SAW)
said: "He who cuts a lote-tree [without justification], Allah will send him to Hellfire." (Abu
Dawud). The lote-tree grows in the desert and is very much needed in an area which has
scarce vegetation. The devastation caused by deforestation in many countries causes soil
erosion and kills many of the biodiversity of the earth.

-The approach of Islam towards the use of natural resources was brilliantly put forward by
the Fourth Caliph Hazrat Ali ibn Abi-Talib (RA) who said “Partake of it gladly so long as you
are the benefactor, not a despoiler; a cultivator, not a destroyer. All human beings as well
as animals and wildlife enjoy the right to share Earth’s resources. Man’s abuse of any
resource is prohibited as the juristic principle says ‘What leads to the prohibited is itself
prohibited”.

-When Abu Musa (RA) was sent to Al-Basrah as the new governor, he addressed the
people saying: "I was sent to you by 'Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA) in order to teach you the
Book of your Lord [i.e. the Qur’an], the Sunnah [of your Prophet], and to clean your
streets." Abu Hurairah reported that the Messenger of Allah (Peace Be Upon Him) forbade
that a person relieve himself in a water source or on a path or in a place of shade or in the
burrow of a leaving creature. These values highlight Islam’s stress on avoiding pollution of
critical resources and importance of cleanliness.

Spreading Environmental Awareness

-There are various ways which you can raise environmental awareness in your personal
and professional circles. The popularization of social networking among young generation
makes it easier and attractive to spread environmental awareness using Facebook,

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Twitter, Google+ etc. A simple and effective method which I use is the distribution of QR
Codes (Quick Response Codes) in my college campus.

-Another great idea would be to start your own school, college or workplace campaign
for planting trees. Students, faculty members and co-workers can be motivated to
donate a nominal amount of money towards plantation campaign. Keeping plants around
your home, school or workplace is not only aesthetic and decorative but also keep you
healthy and improve indoor air quality. According to Hazrat Jabir (RA) reported that
Prophet Muhammad [S.A.W] said: “No Muslim, who plants a shoot, except that whatever
is eaten or stolen from it, or anyone obtains the least thing from it, is considered [like
paying] almsgiving on his behalf until the Day of Judgement." (Muslim)

Conclusions

-Environmental awareness and protection of natural resource is an integral part of Islamic

beliefs. As viceroys of Allah on this earth, we have to utilize natural resources in a
sustainable manner in order to ensure that Allah’s Bounties to continue. The principle of
conservation is beautifully illustrated by the rule which says that while making ablutions
(wudu) we should be abstemious in the use of water even if we have a river at our
disposal. As humans, we are keepers of all creation, including soil, air, water, animals and
trees. A major objective of Islamic teachings and Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) traditions
is to build and maintain a healthy and clean environment which is devoid of any source of
pollution and misuse.

PRINCIPLES OF GOOD GOVERNANCE IN ISLAM

Introduction to Islam

-The word Islam is derived from Arabic word S L M and its mean surrender, obedient and
as well as peace and this mean that a person can have a physical and mental peace only
when he fully surrenders to all mighty GOD

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-This religious system is been start by Muhammad SWT Peace be up him at seventh
century and Islam is one of the fastest growing religions in the world and in each five
person one is a Muslim in all around the world there is 3 million of the Muslims (Malik,
2003)

-The Holy Quran describes good governance as the law of justice, a just and principled
order and compliance of rights and responsibilities in a society.

-The Qur’an declares: “Those when given authority in land, establish (system of) salah,
give zakah and enjoin what is good (mauruf) and forbid what is wrong (munkar) (Quran,
al-Hajj, 22:41)

-It further says: “O you who believe stand up as a witness for Allah in all fairness, and do
not let the hatred of people deviate you from justice (‘adl). Be just, this is closest to piety
(Quran, Al-Maidah, 5:8)

-Islamic view of good governance is qualitative and not mechanical. Major features of
good governance can be précised under seven fundamentals

Rules of Law (As-Shura)

Khilafah

Accountability

Transparency

Justice

Equity

Al-amr bil maruf wa nahi an al-munkar

Rules of Law ( As-Shura)

-As-shura is one of the most important constitutional principles in the Islamic Law. As it’s
very important that’s why it’s been mentioned in Quran Moreover, a sura (chapter) in the
holy Qur’an was named after that principle. It is called “Shura”. This show the importance

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of this principle in all the affairs of Muslims. The whole system of the Islamic state from its
beginning to the selection of the Khalifa of the state and all those in key positions as well
as its communications must be led by Shura, so it should be carried out directly or
indirectly over selected or nominated councils

-There is mention in Quran: O you, who believe, be custodians of justice (and) witness for
Allah, even though against yourselves or your parents or your relatives. Whether a man is
rich or poor, Allah is the greatest well-wisher than you. So follow nor the behests of lust,
lest you swerve from justice (Quran, An-Nisa, 4:135)

-Even the Prophet, although he was the receiver of direct guidance from the Almighty
Allah, was command-ed. Allah says:

-Consult them in affairs (of moment). Then, when you have to take a decision put the
trust in Allah. For Allah loves those who put their trust (in Him). (Quran, Al-Imran, 3:159)

-Following this advice and lead, Khalifa Umar admonished that:

-There is no khilafah without consultation.

-Thus, The same mechanism was followed by the follower of Muhammad SWT for the
selection of Khalifa and It was the first Muslim elected four khulafah guidance, although
the selection and approval process varies. The important principle is the truth and
accountability and public confidence in those elected by the community.

The importance of Shura

-The basic fundamentals of Islamic political system is called [Link] is responsible for all
the affairs of Muslims .Thus, the Islamic state might have preceded the modern
democratic systems with regard to the necessity of agreement over choosing the one
who runs its affairs and cares for its interests, something which stresses the value and
effectiveness of unanimity among Muslims (Al-Nuzum, p24, 25) .

Decision maker of Shura

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-A group of Muslim people who have the power to make decision are all called Shura. And
those who are members of Shura must have some qualities like Education, Wise and
Justice so it can be said that the Shura people are scholars and leaders.

-For applying the rulers it’s important and necessary to have a Shura .It can be said that it
is one of the most important manifestations of civilization that Muslims contributed to its
creation and consolidation in the Muslim community. So, Shura was a kind of expression
of the divine will on the basis of what the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “My nation
shall not agree upon an error.” (Majah) . In Here I would like to mention that Khalifa in Islam
can’t give the Right to express the divine will. I.e. he is not authorized to pass legislation,
because the power of legislation is entitled to the Muslim community or the whole nation
(Al-Sanhuri) and this, of course, happens in the absence of clear evidence from the
Qur’an and the Prophet’s traditions.

-Difference between Shura and democracy

-We should say the Islamic Shura is much different from modern democracy system.
Democracy is the people made rules and assumed by people and people should make
their own constitution and law, In order for people to assume lawmaking authority, set
laws and distinct between authorities, general elections are held to select a group of
individuals who are able to monitor all authorities, and those persons have the rights to
remove or bring ministers or head of a state

-Islamic Shura have a different view. Shura in Islam is based on the rule of Allah’s and
Sunna Muhammad SWT and loyalty to those rules in basis of faith.

-Scholars are the people of power and decision. They come at the top of the people of
Shura. Given Allah’s rules, scholars don’t have their own consultation laws they just have
to prove the text is from Quran and sunnah.

-The truth is that democratic system can be easily controlled or avoid by some powerful
parties over political actions in a country and they will and politely parties and they will
force to apply by the nation. However the Islamic Shura is supremacy for Allah only and

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and give the priority to Allah’s rule which lead to the emergence of men living in the
company of Allah and fearing Him Honestly (Ghalush)

Khilafah

-Khalifa is an Arabic word means successor. The word caliph is simply an Anglicized
version of khalifa. The terms khilafat and caliphate, though derived from khalifa and caliph
individually, have different meanings. Khilafat refers to the Islamic institution of spiritual
successor ship, whereas caliphate indicates a politico-religious Muslim state governed by
a caliph

-When the Prophet Muhammed SAW past a way in (632 C.E.), Hazrat Abu Bakr succeeded
to his spiritual, administrative purposes as successor of the messenger of God (khalifa
rasul Allah). Bernard Lewis, the preeminent historian of Islam, observes:

“Abu Bakr was given the title of Khalifa or ‘Deputy’ (of the prophet) … and his election
marks the appointment of the great historic institution of the Caliphate. His voters can
have no idea of later purposes and growth of the office. At the time, they made no effort
to define his duties or powers. The only state of his selection was the maintenance of the
inheritance of the Prophet.” (Lewis, 1993)

-Allah has promised to those among you who believe and act rightly, that He will surely
make them Successors (khalifas) in the earth, as He made Successors from among those
who were before them; and that He will surely establish for them their religion, which He
has chosen for them; and that He will surely grant them security and peace in place of
their fear (Quran, Alnoor, 24:54)

-In this verse, the Holy Quran presents the institution of khilafat as a reward for collective
virtue. It is often understood to provide a basis for an Islamic organization founded upon
the democratic lines headed by a khalifa whose office is, in principle, elective and bound
by the Quran and the sunnah.

-In a well-known hadith, the Prophet Muhammad SWT is reported to have observed:

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-Prophet Hood shall remain among you as long as God wills. Then khilafat on the pattern
of prophet hood will commence and remain as long as He wills. A corrupt monarchy shall
then follow and it shall remain as long as God wills. There shall then be a oppressive
despotism which shall remain as long as God wills. Then once again khilafat will arise on
the principle of prophet hood (Masnad-Ahmad)

-This hadith not only reassures us about the repetition of well guided khilafat but it also
permits a historical judgment on what was to follow the early Khilafat.

-The famous historian of Islam, Muhammad SWT ibn Jarir Al Tabari, narrates the following
incident

-Umar said to Salman: ‘Am I a king or a khalifa?’ and Salman answered: ‘If you have levied
from the lands of the Muslims one dirham, or more, or less, and applied it unlawfully, you
are a king not a khalifa’. And Umar wept

-Here Hazrat Umar, the second Khalifa, whose goodness, sense of justice, and puritanical
strictness were well-known, came to tears by the mere mention of the possibility of
misusing a single coin from the public exchequer. This incidence underscores the
characteristic of the rightly-guided khilafat. (Al Tabari, Tarikh al-Rusul Wal Muluk)

-As God’s sovereignty extends over the universe, the final ideal of a public in Islam is a
universal federation or association of independent states, related together for
maintenance freedom of integrity, for the maintenance of peace, and for cooperation in
promoting human welfare throughout the world (Khan, Feb 1993)

-A khalifa has the promise of divine support so long as it remains firmly based on the
precept of prophet hood – that is, the principles and prototypes demonstrated by
prophets. He is bound by the rules of great law. He decides questions of rule after
discussion with the chosen representatives of the people.

-In governing the corporation, man is seen as the essential element for the system to be
effectively working in the right way. As man is the shareholder, creditor, examiner,
regulator, manager as well as the director thus, its manifest that man plays the principal

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roles in managing and led to the accomplishment of company’s vision and mission. The
issues of man in term of values, ethics and moral conduct therefore need to be well
detained in the first place to ensure the concern of the society could be taken care. The
concern among other things are maintenance trust, maintaining honesty, exercising
transparency and accountability, traditional in managing resources, caring and concern of
the environment. The failure to impress these values may pose serious problem to the
public at large.

Accountability

-In the Holy Qur'an, the word hesab is repeated more than eight times in different verses
(F, 1997) Hesab or 'account' is the root of accounting, and the references in the Holy
Qur'an are to 'account' in its generic sense, relating to one's responsibility to 'account' to
God on all matters relating to human effort for which every Muslim is 'accountable'.

-The Muslims believe in the terms of accountability that they will be judged for whatever
they do in this world in the hereafter (life after death). In Islam, It’s the duty of each
Muslim to fulfill the wills of Allah in order to seek his pleasure and the promised prizes in
the life after death. Thus, it requires every action and word in this world must be in line
with the Islamic teachings. It does not matter what action the Muslims do either ibadah
(solah) or purchasing shares in the stock market, eating , sleeping like daily jobs they must
follow the Islamic teaching framework carefully. The importance of accountability to the
man’s life also has been mentioned by Holy Quran: “…Lo the hearing and the sight and the
heart – of each of these will be asked” (Quran, Bani Israill, 17:36)

-Abdullah reported that Allah’s Messenger Muhammad SWT said: Every one of you is a
guardian and accountable (mas’ul) for his charge. Thus the Khalifa is a custodian of the
people and He is responsible for them. And a man is a guardian of his household and he is
accountable for them; and a woman is in charge of the household and her children and
she is accountable for them; and a servant is guardian of his master’s property, every one
of you is accountable for his subjects (Bukhari)

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-In the view of corporate governance practices, as far as Islam is concerned, the country
directors, management as well as the auditor should perform their professional duties
with the objective of satisfying the needs of the Public and to Allah as well. Supposing,
there should be no such disease (i.e. fraud; material misstatement) exist in the country if
this concept could be affected and could be reflected in their conducts. Unfortunately,
most of them have been followed by the physical experienced life which has led to the
bad behaviors that cause the owners (community) of the country suffer the penalties.

Transparency

-The concept of transparency has been divulged by Allah in the following Ayat: “O you
who believe! When you deal with each other, in transactions involving future obligations in
a fixed period of time, reduce them to writing. Let a scribe write-down faithfully as
between the parties…” (Quran, Al-Baqarah, Beginning of the Ayat, 2:282). This verse
states that every transaction must be written to avoid justice.

-Applying the concept of transparency, corporation should also disclose information

regarding its strategy, actions, contribution to the community and the use of resources
and protection of environment (Haniffa, 2002)

-Transparency is the necessity for openness in all public affairs. Transparency allows
Committee to gather information that may be unsafe to exposure misuses and defending
their benefits.

-According to Ayee transparency entails that: citizens have a right to available

information pertaining to, for example, award of contracts, privatization of state
enterprises, rules against corruption or the funding of political parties (Ayee, 2000). A
transparent government is that which offers chance to citizens to find out the true proofs
at first hand, without the material being changed or presented through a misrepresenting
mirror.

-In core, transparency is basically concerned with open and established system of
government, the extermination of corruption and the institutionalization of a system that

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is fair, just and based on the rule of law. Transparency or openness in governance is
important in the process of growth. It is serious in the elimination of corruption and the
promotion of responsibility in the conduct of government business. Today, the quest for
transparent performance has become a world-wide phenomenon with the Transparency
International.

Justice

-In the Islamic worldview, justice means placing things in their rightful place. It also means
giving others equal treatment. In Islam, justice is also an honest quality and a feature of
human personality, as it is in the Western tradition. Justice is close to equality in the
wisdom that it creates a state of equilibrium in the distribution of rights and duties, but
they are not equal. Sometimes, justice is accomplished through inequality, like in unequal
distribution of wealth. (Muslims)

-Justice in the Islamic governmental system, including social justice, which means that
the government should arrange to meet and please the needs and needs of all the people
as they have a valid part of the country and citizens of the country. This contains the
facility of job, means of existence and financial justice. This in turn suggests that it is the
duty of the government to provide food, housing and clothing for all the people in the
country. Economic justice aimed at equitable supply of lifestyle and checks the awareness
of wealth in a few hands.

The Importance of Justice

-The Quran, the holy scripture of Islam, considers justice to be a highest virtue. It is a
basic objective of Islam to the degree that it stands next in order of importance to belief
in God’s exclusive right to worship (Tawheed) and the truth of Muhammad SWT prophet
hood. God declares in the Quran: God commands justice and fair dealing... (Quran, Al-
Nahal, 16:90).

And in another passage:

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• you who believe, be upright for God, and (be) bearers of witness with justice!..
(Quran, Al-Mayeeda, 5:8).

-Therefore, one may achieve that justice is an responsibility of Islam and unfairness is
forbidden. The importance of justice to the Quranic value system is showed by the
following verse:

-We sent Our Messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Book and the
Measure in order to establish justice among the people… (Quran, Al-Hadeed, 57:25).

-The phrase ‘Our Messengers’ shows that justice has been the goal of all admission and
scriptures sent to humanity. The verse also shows that justice must be measured and
applied by the values and rules set by admission. Islam’s approach to justice is complete
and complete. Any path that leads to justice is believed to be in accord with Islamic Law.

-God has required justice and, although He has not prescribed a definite path, has
provided general rules, on how to achieve it. He has neither given a fixed means by which
it can be found, nor has He stated unacceptable any specific means or methods that can
lead to justice. Therefore, all means, processes, and methods that enable, improve, and
advance the cause of justice, and do not interrupt the Islamic Law are valid (Qarzawi)

-Equality in Justice

-The Quranic standards of justice exceed thoughts of race, religion, color, and faith, as
Muslims are ordered to be just to their friends and enemies similar, and to be just at all
levels, as the Quran puts it:

• you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even if it be
against yourselves, your parents, and your relatives, or whether it is against the rich or the
poor... (Quran, Al-Nisa, 4:135)

-According to another Quranic passage:

-Let not the hatred of a people swerve you away from justice. Be just, for this is closest to
righteousness… (Al-Mayeeda, Quran (Al-Mayeeda), 5:8)

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-The scholars of the Quran have decided that these decisions apply to all nations,
followers of all faiths, as a matter of fact to all humanity (Kamali)In the view of the Quran,
justice is a responsibility. That is why the Prophet was told:

-…If you judge, judge between them with justice… (Al-Mayeeda, Quran (Al-Mayeeda),
5:42)

-Furthermore, the Prophet was sent as a judge between peoples, and told:

-…Say: I believe in the Scripture, which God has sent down, and I am commanded to judge
justly between you... (Al-Shura, 42:15)

-The Quran want that justice can be encountered for all, and that it is a characteristic
right of all human beings under Islamic Law (Qutb)

-To reduce justice is a trust that God has discussed on the human being and, like all other
trusts, its contentment must be directed by logic of accountability outside simple
traditionalism to set rules.

-The reference to justice which directly follows a reference to fulfillment of trusts

indicates that it is one of the most important of all trusts (Razi, Al-Tafsir al-Kabir)

Equity

-The principle of equality is one of the most important constitutional principles upon
which the contemporary system rests. This means that the principle of equality contained
in the individual communities are equal in rights, responsibilities and public duties that will
be enjoyed by all without discrimination of race, origin, lan-measure or belief. The
principle of equality has been initiated by the Qur'an and Sunnah and the expansion of
Islam during some as a precedent in Islamic law and its own time and place

-This value of equality is not to be incorrect for or confused with similarity or stereotype.
Islam teaches that in the view of Allah Almighty, all people are equal, but they are not
necessarily indistinguishable. There are variances of capabilities, abilities, determinations,
wealth and so on.

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-Yet, none of these differences can by themselves found the status of lead of one man or
race over another. The standard of man, his skin color, the amount of capital he has and
the degree of respect he enjoys has no attitude on the personality of the individual as far
as Allah is concerned. The only difference, which Allah identifies, is the difference in
religiousness the only standard which Allah applies, is the standard of goodness and
spiritual excellence. In the Quran, Allah Almighty Says (what means): O mankind, indeed
we have created you from male and female, and have made you into nations and tribes,
that you may know one another. Indeed the most honored of you in the sight of Allah is
the most righteous. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted (Quran, Al-Hujrat, 49:13) .

-This is to declare that in Islam, no nation is made to be above other nations or to rise
above them. Man's value in the eyes of men and in the eyes of Allah is determined by the
good he does, and by his respect to Allah.

-The differences of race, color or social status are only supplementary. They do not affect
the true standing of man in the vision of Allah. Again, the value of equality is not simply a
substance of constitutional rights or the agreement of nobles or condescending charity. It
is an article of trust, which the Muslim takes seriously and to which the must follow
honestly. The fundamentals of this Islamic value of equality are extremely deep-rooted in
the arrangement of Islam. It stems from basic ideologies such as the following:

-All men are created by One and the Same Eternal God, the Supreme Lord of all.

-All mankind belong to the human race and share equally in the common parentage of
Aadam (Adam) and Eve (Hawa).

-Allah is Just and Kind to all His creatures. He is not partial to any race, age or religion. The
whole Universe is His Dominion and all people are His creatures.

-All people are born equal, in the sense that no one brings any possession with him; and
they die equal in the sense that they take back nothing of their worldly belongings.

-Allah judges every person on the basis of his own merits and according to his own deeds.

-Allah has discussed on man, a title of honor and dignity.

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-Those were some of the principles behind the value of equality in Islam. When this
concept is fully utilized, it will leave no place for prejudgment or harassments. And when
this Great rule is fully applied, there will be no room for domination or conquest. Concepts
of chosen and gentile peoples, words such as ‘privileged’ and ‘condemned’ races, words
such as “social classes” and “citizens” will all become worthless and outdated.

-Prophet Muhammad SWT said: O mankind, your Lord is one and your father is one. You
all descended from Aadam, and Aadam was created from earth. He is most honored
among you in the sight of God who is most upright. No Arab is superior to a non-Arab, no
colored person to a white person, or a white person to a colored person except by Taqwa
(piety) (At-Tirmithi).

-Therefore, it would be improbable to declare the complete equality of human beings,

although humans are essentially equal in rights, duties and accountability, and there is
some degree of similarity in physical and mental behaviors, which enables them to
understand and apply rules and laws. At the same time, it is understandable that there is a
natural range among human beings in terms of qualities and abilities; therefore there will
be limits in natural, common and political positions. Some of the limits are temporary,
some permanent; some are rare, some regular. However, a control is specific to a
particular situation. It may not be generalized to inequality in other rights. A person who is
morally upright is not equal to a staff in terms of morality, but they may be equal
otherwise. Nor is an intelligent person equal to a dull one, but they are equal in other
spheres. In the same way, a woman is not indistinguishable to man in her characters, gifts
and skills.

-Al-amr bil maruf wa nahi an al-munkar

-Amongst the greatest responsibilities are amr-bil-Ma’roof (ordering for acknowledged

virtues) and nahi anil munkar (forbidding from sin). Allah says: “And there should be a
group amongst you who invite towards good, order for acknowledged virtues, forbid
from sin and these it is that are the successful ones” (Quran, Al-Imran, 3:104).

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The Holy Prophet SWT said: “How will it be for you when your women will commit sins and
your youth will transgress and you will not order for acknowledged virtues nor forbid from
sin? It was said to him: “Will that happen O messenger of Allah?” Then he SWT said: Yes.
Then he said: “How will it be for you when you order for sins and forbid from
acknowledged virtues?” Then it was said to him: “O messenger of Allah SWT! Will that
happen?” Then he said: “Yes and worse than that how will it be for you when you perceive
acknowledged virtue as sin and perceive sin as acknowledged virtue?”

-Imam Sadiq said: Woe to the people who do not support the religion of Allah by enjoining
good and forbidding evil (Sadiq)

-The expression 'amr bi al-ma'ruf wa-nahy an al-munkar' is a very important one. It is

associated to Jihad, that is, doing one's highest to understand a aim. Jihad is not
essentially war fought on the battlefield for which the specific Arabic and Quranic term is
'qital.' Jihad has a very wide meaning and states to striving for the cause of Allah Almighty
to promote goodness and eliminate evil. A mujahid is a person who carries out Jihad or
works hard for the cause of endorsing the values of the Glorious Quran.

-Thus, Amr bil ma‘ruf wa nahy an al-munkar which means ordering good and forbidding
evil, is a Jihad related principle. It seeks to intelligently carry the benefits of Islam to the
people and to inform them of the meaning of what devil do. The Quran calls Muslims the
model community which requires to convey the Prophet SWT message to entire humanity
and to live the Quran, just as the Prophet did.

"Amr bil Ma'ruf wa Nahy an al Munkar" is an important Islamic duty, together believed by
all Muslims. The difference is in the understanding of it. Some consider that it is enough to
accomplish the duty by the "heart and tongue," which means one should support al-
ma'ruf and oppose al-munkar in his heart and use his tongue to speak out for al-ma'ruf
and against al-munkar. But there are some who justify taking up arms (if necessary) for
the sake of fulfilling this duty.

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EXAMPLES OF GOOD GOVERNANCE FROM ISLAMIC HISTORY.

-Islamic history is replete with noble examples of good governance from the Sunnah of
the Prophet (SAW) and the practice of the pious companions. Some of these examples
are herein presented with a view to enthusing us to do the right things and forbid the
wrong. However, it is important to keep in mind that neither the Prophet (SAW) nor his
companions was an angel. Also, they practised Islam not in a more conducive
environment than our own; rather they influenced their environment constantly albeit
positively until Allah assisted them to bring about the change they desired in their clime
and epoch. ‘For indeed Allah will not the condition of a people until they change that
which is in their own minds.’ (Qur’an 13 v 11)

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