Justice ('Adl) in Islam

Justice ('adl) is a cornerstone of Islamic civilization and a defining attribute of Allah Himself. The Quran commands: "O you who believe, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives" (Quran 4:135). Justice in Islam is not merely a legal principle; it is a moral, social, and spiritual imperative that extends from the individual's heart to the structures of governance. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The just will be with Allah on pulpits of light: those who are just in their judgment, with their families, and in all that they are entrusted with" (Sahih Muslim).

Justice as a Divine Command

The Quran elevates justice to the level of a fundamental divine command: "Indeed, Allah orders justice and good conduct" (Quran 16:90). This is not conditional or contextual; it applies to all people in all situations. Justice must be maintained even toward enemies: "O you who believe, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness" (Quran 5:8). This remarkable verse demands fairness toward those one dislikes or is in conflict with, a standard that is radical in its implications.

Social and Economic Justice

Islam's commitment to justice extends deeply into social and economic life. The zakat system is a wealth redistribution mechanism built into the fabric of the faith. The Quran prohibits riba (usury/interest) because it creates unjust exploitation of debtors. The Prophet (peace be upon him) established market regulations, forbidding hoarding, price manipulation, and monopolistic practices. He condemned those who cheat in weights and measures (the lesson of Prophet Shu'ayb). The Islamic inheritance system distributes wealth across family members rather than allowing concentration. The waqf (endowment) system funded public goods, education, and services for the poor. Every one of these institutions reflects the Quranic principle: "So that wealth does not circulate only among the rich among you" (Quran 59:7).

Justice in Governance

The rulers in Islam are bound by justice more than anyone else. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Seven will be shaded by Allah on a Day when there will be no shade but His," and the first mentioned is "a just ruler" (Sahih al-Bukhari). Abu Bakr's first address as caliph declared: "The weak among you is strong in my sight until I restore his right, and the strong among you is weak in my sight until I take the right from him." Umar ibn al-Khattab exemplified this further: he held himself accountable to the public, distributed wealth equitably, and was accessible to every citizen. The scholars of Islam have consistently taught that obedience to a ruler is conditional on the ruler's adherence to justice and the Shariah; there is no unconditional obedience to oppression.