⛰️ #10 | The True Meaning of Justice

The True Meaning of Justice

Oftentimes, when we hear the word justice, we tend to conjure up images of stern court judges or brawny war heroes clad in armor or maybe even scenarios of revenge and retribution.

This conceptualization is not surprising, as most of the events where justice is seen as a primary force tends to be within that sphere, further enhanced by movies, careers, and stereotypes.

However, as Muslims, each and every one of us has a duty to further justice within our own lives. Initially, it may seem hard to envision where exactly this can be done, but the Allah gives us the guidance in a beautiful way, when He says in Surah Hujuraat:

“And if two groups of believers fight each other, then make peace between them. But if one of them transgresses against the other, then fight against the transgressing group until they ˹are willing to˺ submit to the rule of Allah. If they do so, then make peace between both ˹groups˺ in all fairness and act justly. Surely Allah loves those who uphold justice.

The believers are but one brotherhood, so make peace between your brothers. And be mindful of Allah so you may be shown mercy.”

(Hujuraat 49:9-10)

At first glance, you may again see that justice is coupled with attaining it through means of fighting. But with a closer look, we notice that Allah has emphasized another characteristic far more in these two ayaat: peace.

When two groups of Muslims are in disagreement or hostility with one another, it is our duty to do our best to make peace, rather than initially choosing a side, and flaring up emotions. This in of itself, is a test to the human nature: assessing a scenario with a levelheaded view, and making peace a priority. If a side is unreasonable and is clearly crossing boundaries, then we fight to make it right in order to make peace, not to prove them wrong or get revenge.

This is true justice. Impassioned by the love of Allah, but maintaining fairness and peace.

Allah again reiterates the importance of making peace, when He reminds us that all believers are all under the canopy of brotherhood and sisterhood, and that striving for peacefulness is a duty.

So the next time, you’re stuck between friends or family arguing, or even on a larger scale, remember that justice is peace, and truly, those who show mercy and softness to the creation, will be shown the pinnacle of mercy and love by Allah.