Islam and Human Rights: Do they go hand in hand?

Islam and human rights: Do they go hand in hand? This question sparks global debate about the compatibility between faith and also freedom. We will explore more about that topic.

First: Islam and human rights: Do they go hand in hand?

While misconceptions persist, a deeper understanding reveals a rich ethical framework that strongly upholds justice, equality, and human dignity.

Second: Human rights in Islam

The Islamic view on human rights begins from the Qur’an and also the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. Islamic teachings on justice and equality promote not only fairness in legal matters but also social justice, emphasizing the rights of orphans, the poor, and minorities. Rights of minorities in Islam, including religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, are in many historical examples from the Prophet’s governance in Medina.

Islamic law and modern human rights

Islam, as a comprehensive way of life, establishes justice, dignity, and equality. Moreover, the Qur’an and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad emphasize protecting life, freedom, and fairness for all individuals, which aligns closely with modern human rights principles. When comparing Islamic law with modern rights, many questions arise. While Sharia and human rights are sometimes seen in tension, many scholars argue that Islamic principles align with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Third: List of human rights in Islam

Islam provides a comprehensive framework for Muslims based on justice, dignity, in addition to moral responsibility. Here are key rights guaranteed in Islamic teachings such as:

1- Right to life (Islam and Human Rights)

Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:32)

“Whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land – it is as if he had slain mankind entirely.”

2- Right to human dignity

Surah Al-Isra (17:70)

“And We have certainly honored the children of Adam…”

3- Right to justice

Surah An-Nisa (4:135)

“O you who believe! Stand firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even if it be against yourselves…”

4- Right to freedom of religion

Surah Al-Baqarah (2:256)

“There is no compulsion in religion. The right path has become distinct from the wrong…”

5- Right to equality

Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13)

“O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you…”

6- Right to property

Surah Al-Baqarah (2:188)

“Do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers…”

5-Right to education

Surah Az-Zumar (39:9)

“Say, Are those who know equal to those who do not know?”

6- Rights of women

Surah Al-Baqarah (2:228)

“And women have rights similar to those [of men] over them in kindness…”

7- Rights of minorities

Surah Al-Kafirun (109:6)

“To you be your religion, and to me my religion.”

Related posts: The rights of women in Islam

In conclusion, far from conflicting with modern human rights principles, Islam’s approach complements them by ensuring dignity, justice, and freedom for every individual.

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