ʿAdl (عدل‎) in Islam

Definition and Etymology

ʿAdl (Arabic: عدل‎) fundamentally means justice, fairness, and equity. It embodies the notion of appointing what is just, equalizing, and making things of the same weight. In a broader context, ʿAdl also refers to moral rectitude, adherence to rightful conduct, and the impartial administration of justice.

• Arabic Translation: عدل
• Turkish Translation: Adalet

Qur’anic Usage and Importance

The concept of ʿAdl is deeply embedded in the Qur’an and forms a cornerstone of Islamic teachings. The word ‘ʿAdl’ occurs twelve times across various surahs (chapters) in the Qur’an, emphasizing its fundamental role in Muslim belief and conduct.

1. Surah An-Nisa (4:128): Emphasizes the challenge of maintaining equity between wives.

   <p>&ldquo;Ye are not able, it may be, to act equitably to your wives, even though ye covet it.”</p>

2. Surah Al-Baqarah (2:44, 123, 282): Addresses the concept of ransom and equitable dealings.

   <p>&ldquo;Fear the day wherein no soul shall pay any ransom for another soul.” &ldquo;Write it down faithfully &hellip; then let his agent dictate faithfully.&rdquo;</p>

3. Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:105): Advocates for the testimony of equitable persons during a will.

   <p>&ldquo;Let there be a testimony between you when any one of you is at the point of death.&rdquo;</p>

4. Surah Al-An’am (6:69): Discusses compensation.

   <p>&ldquo;And though it (soul) compensate with the fullest compensation, it would not be accepted.”</p>

5. Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:115): Asserts the fulfillment of God’s words in truth and justice.

   <p>&ldquo;The words of thy Lord are fulfilled in truth and justice.&rdquo;</p>

6. Surah An-Nahl (16:78, 92): Calls for commands of justice and correctness.

   <p>&ldquo;Is he to be held equal with him who bids what is just, and who is on the right way?” “Verily God bids you do justice.”</p>

7. Surah Al-Hujurat (49:8): Encourages making peace with equity and being just.

   <p>&ldquo;Make peace with them with equity and be just.&rdquo;</p>

8. Surah Al-Infitar (82:8): Recognizes God’s creation and guidance towards rectitude.

   <p>&ldquo;Thy generous Lord, who created thee and moulded thee and disposed thee aright.&rdquo;</p>

Islamic Legal and Ethical Significance

In Islamic jurisprudence and ethics, ʿAdl is paramount. It guides the legal rulings (fiqh) and moral theology (Akhlaq). The emphasis on justice reflects in multiple legal frameworks and societal norms in Muslim communities.

Roles of ʿAdl:

• In Personal Conduct: Muslims are encouraged to embody justice in their daily life.
• In Governance: Islamic principles advocate for just rulers and equitable governance.
• In Judiciary: The judicial system in Islamic law is structured to uphold justice unequivocally.

Further Studies and Recommended Books

• “Justice and Remembrance: Introducing the Spirituality of Imam Ali” by Reza Shah-Kazemi
• “Justice and Islamic Law” by Khaled Abou El Fadl
• “The Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence” by Muhammad Hashim Kamali

Takeaways and Conclusion

Understanding ʿAdl (عدل‎) in Islam is crucial as it permeates various facets of life, guiding personal behavior, legal principles, and societal norms. It inculcates a profound sense of moral and ethical responsibility, ensuring that justice, fairness, and equity are integral parts of a Muslim’s life and community.

By delving deeper into Qur’anic teachings and Islamic law, the significance of ʿAdl becomes apparent, reinforcing its role as a foundational concept that underpins the very essence of Islamic civilization and jurisprudence.