Islam, as a comprehensive way of life, provides a clear framework for ethical conduct, emphasizing justice, moderation, and the well-being of individuals and society. The Holy Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) delineate various prohibitions not merely as restrictions, but as protective measures designed to safeguard human dignity, promote spiritual growth, and foster a harmonious community.
Prohibition of Bribery and Corruption (Q. 2:188)
Bribery and corruption represent a profound breach of trust and a direct assault on justice and fairness in any society. The Quran explicitly warns against such illicit practices:
Quranic Teaching: “And do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that you may knowingly consume a portion of the people’s wealth sinfully.” (Q. 2:188)
Meaning and Significance: This verse unequivocally prohibits the use of wealth to bribe those in authority or to unjustly acquire the property or rights of others. It highlights the moral depravity of consciously leveraging influence or illicit payments to gain an unfair advantage, stressing the destructive impact on societal trust and the integrity of legal and administrative systems. Corruption erodes public confidence, distorts justice, and diverts resources meant for the collective good into the hands of a few.
Practical Application in Daily Life:
- Upholding Integrity in Transactions: Always conduct business and personal dealings with honesty and transparency. Refuse to offer or accept any form of bribe, gift, or favor intended to influence a decision or outcome unfairly.
- Promoting Fair Procedures: Advocate for and adhere to merit-based systems in employment, procurement, and public services. Challenge and report corrupt practices within your capacity, ensuring that decisions are made based on merit, competence, and ethical considerations, not personal gain.
- Cultivating Contentment: Foster a sense of contentment with lawful earnings and blessings, resisting the temptation of quick, illicit gains. Understand that true prosperity lies in blessings (barakah) obtained through righteous means, rather than mere accumulation of wealth.
- Civic Responsibility: Support initiatives and organizations working towards good governance and anti-corruption. Participate actively in creating a culture where integrity is valued and corruption is condemned.
Prohibition of Alcohol and Gambling (Q. 2:219, Q. 5:90-91)
Alcohol and gambling are categorized as major transgressions in Islam due to their severe and far-reaching negative consequences on individuals, families, and society.
Quranic Teachings:
- “They ask you concerning wine and gambling. Say, ‘In them is great sin, and [yet, some] benefits for people. But their sin is greater than their benefit.’…” (Q. 2:219)
- “O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing to] stone altars, and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful. Satan only wants to cause animosity and hatred between you through intoxicants and gambling and to avert you from the remembrance of Allah and from prayer. So will you not desist?” (Q. 5:90-91) (Note: The user referred to Q. 5:93-94, which discusses the past consumption before prohibition, but 90-91 are the direct prohibitions.)
Meaning and Significance: These verses clearly establish the prohibition of alcohol (wine and all intoxicants) and gambling. While acknowledging that they might offer fleeting “benefits” (e.g., social lubrication, temporary thrill), the Quran emphasizes that their “sin is greater than their benefit.” The later verses in Surah Al-Ma’idah describe them as “defilement from the work of Satan,” aimed at creating enmity, hatred, and diverting people from prayer and the remembrance of Allah. The prohibition is designed to protect mental clarity, physical health, financial stability, and social harmony.
Practical Application in Daily Life:
- Complete Abstinence: Maintain complete abstinence from all forms of alcoholic beverages and gambling activities. This includes not consuming, purchasing, selling, or facilitating their use.
- Seeking Healthy Alternatives: Replace social activities involving alcohol with wholesome alternatives such as healthy gatherings, outdoor activities, sports, community service, or educational pursuits.
- Responsible Financial Management: Avoid any form of gambling, including lotteries, betting, and speculative investments that resemble gambling. Instead, invest resources wisely in halal (permissible) ventures, save for the future, and practice charity.
- Promoting Awareness: Educate oneself and others about the detrimental effects of alcohol and gambling on health, family life, and financial well-being. Support initiatives that help individuals overcome addiction to these substances and activities.
Prohibition of Stealing and Fraud (Q. 5:41, Q. 83:1-5)
Islam places immense importance on protecting private property and ensuring fairness in economic dealings. Stealing and fraud are grave sins that undermine trust and justice.
Quranic Teachings:
- “…And whoever desires the trial in regards to him, then you will not avail him from Allah at all. Those are the ones for whom Allah does not intend to purify their hearts. For them in this world is disgrace, and for them in the Hereafter is a great punishment.” (Q. 5:41) – This verse, in context, speaks about those who rush into disbelief and deception, often in judicial matters, and those who take bribes or engage in theft, indicating the severe consequences.
- “Woe to those who give less [than due], who, when they take a measure from people, take in full. But if they give by measure or by weight to them, they cause loss. Do they not think that they will be resurrected, for a tremendous Day – the Day when mankind will stand before the Lord of the worlds?” (Q. 83:1-5)
Meaning and Significance: While Q. 5:41 broadly condemns those involved in deceit and unjust gains, often linked to taking what is not rightfully theirs (including theft and corruption), Q. 83:1-5 specifically targets fraud in commercial transactions, particularly concerning weights and measures. It highlights the severe warning against short-changing others, emphasizing that such actions are not only earthly transgressions but also carry dire consequences in the Hereafter, underscoring the importance of honesty and precision in all dealings. This principle extends to all forms of fraud, deception, and misappropriation of property.
Practical Application in Daily Life:
- Honesty in Transactions: Always ensure fair and honest dealings in all commercial, professional, and personal interactions. Give full measure and weight, disclose any defects in goods, and provide accurate information.
- Respect for Property: Never take, use, or damage what belongs to others without their explicit permission. This includes intellectual property, digital content, and public resources.
- Fulfillment of Contracts: Adhere strictly to agreements and contracts. Fraudulent practices often involve breaking promises or misrepresenting terms.
- Ethical Employment: As an employee, give your full effort and honesty in your work. As an employer, ensure fair wages and conditions, and do not exploit your workers or customers.
Prohibition of Smoking, Drug Abuse, and Other Intoxicants (Q. 2:172-173, 195, 219; Q. 4:43; Q. 5:3; Q. 6:118-121)
Islam generally prohibits anything that harms the body, mind, or soul, or leads to waste and excess. While specific verses may not directly name “smoking” or “drugs” (as these were not prevalent in the same form during revelation), the general principles of prohibition of intoxicants and harmful substances are derived from various Quranic verses and Prophetic traditions.
Quranic Teachings (General Principles):
- “O you who have believed, eat from the good things which We have provided for you and be grateful to Allah if it is [indeed] Him that you worship.” (Q. 2:172)
- “But whoever is forced by necessity, neither intending wrongdoing nor transgressing, there is no sin upon him. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” (Q. 2:173) – This refers to permissible consumption in dire necessity.
- “And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.” (Q. 2:195)
- “They ask you concerning wine and gambling. Say, ‘In them is great sin…'” (Q. 2:219) – As discussed above, includes intoxicants.
- “O you who have believed, do not approach prayer while you are intoxicated until you know what you are saying…” (Q. 4:43) – Though initially a partial prohibition, it lays groundwork for complete ban.
- “Prohibited to you are dead animals, blood, the flesh of swine, and that which has been dedicated to other than Allah, and [animals] strangled or beaten to death or from a high place or by the goring of horns, and what has been eaten by a wild animal – except what you [are able to] slaughter – and what has been sacrificed on stone altars, and [prohibited is] that you seek decision through divining arrows. That is grave disobedience… But whoever is forced by severe hunger with no inclination to sin, then indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” (Q. 5:3) – Relates to lawful foods, implying that unlawful substances include anything harmful.
- “So eat of that upon which the Name of Allah has been mentioned, if you are believers in His verses… And do not eat of that upon which the Name of Allah has not been mentioned, for indeed, that is grave disobedience. And indeed, the devils inspire their allies [among men] to dispute with you. And if you obey them, indeed, you are polytheists.” (Q. 6:118-121) – Focuses on lawful/unlawful meat, but the principle reinforces the distinction of what is permissible to consume.
Meaning and Significance: The combined wisdom of these verses, alongside the Sunnah, establishes a clear principle: anything that intoxicates, harms the body, impairs judgment, leads to addiction, wastes resources, or causes destruction is prohibited. This extends to smoking (due to documented health harms), illicit drugs (due to severe mind and body deterioration, social harm, and addiction), and any other substance that falls under the category of intoxicants or causes self-destruction. The emphasis is on preserving the mind and body (gifts from Allah), maintaining clarity for worship, and avoiding actions that lead to physical, mental, or financial ruin.
Practical Application in Daily Life:
- Abstinence from Harmful Substances: Completely avoid smoking, vaping, drug abuse, and any other substance classified as an intoxicant or harmful to health.
- Prioritizing Health: Adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes proper nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. View your body as an ‘amanah’ (trust) from Allah, requiring care and protection.
- Mental Clarity and Spiritual Focus: Recognize that intoxicants impair judgment and divert from the remembrance of Allah. Strive to maintain mental clarity to fulfill religious duties and live a purposeful life.
- Seeking Help and Supporting Others: If struggling with addiction, seek professional help and spiritual guidance. Support family and friends who are trying to overcome such habits, creating a supportive environment free from these harms.
Prohibition of Arrogance (Q. 31:18-19)
Arrogance, or pride, is a severe spiritual disease that Islam strongly condemns. It stems from self-admiration and looking down upon others, hindering one’s ability to learn, grow, and connect with Allah and His creation.
Quranic Teaching: “And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful. And be moderate in your pace and lower your voice; indeed, the most disagreeable of sounds is the voice of donkeys.” (Q. 31:18-19)
Meaning and Significance: Luqman’s advice to his son, recounted in these verses, is a profound teaching against arrogance. It prohibits showing contempt for people (turning one’s cheek away) and walking with exaggerated pride or boastfulness. Allah dislikes those who are boastful and self-deluded. The advice to “be moderate in your pace and lower your voice” provides practical ways to express humility and avoid outward manifestations of pride, emphasizing gentleness and respect in demeanor.
Practical Application in Daily Life:
- Cultivating Humility: Recognize that all blessings and achievements come from Allah. Acknowledge your own imperfections and the strengths of others.
- Respectful Interaction: Treat all people with respect, regardless of their status, wealth, or background. Avoid looking down on anyone or showing disdain.
- Listening and Learning: Be open to advice, criticism, and learning from others. An arrogant person believes they know it all and cannot learn.
- Modesty in Demeanor: Adopt a humble gait, speak softly, and avoid loud or boastful expressions. Let your actions speak louder than your words.
- Self-Reflection: Regularly assess your intentions and actions to ensure they are not driven by pride or a desire for recognition.
Prohibition of Extravagance (Q. 17:26-27, Q. 31:18-19)
Extravagance, or excessive spending and wastefulness, is condemned in Islam as it reflects ingratitude for Allah’s blessings, leads to squandering resources, and often stems from pride or a desire for ostentation.
Quranic Teachings:
- “And give the relative his due right, and [also] the poor and the traveler, and do not spend wastefully. Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.” (Q. 17:26-27)
- “And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.” (Q. 31:18-19) – As mentioned above, arrogance often manifests in extravagance and ostentation.
Meaning and Significance: These verses highlight the importance of moderation and responsible use of wealth. Q. 17:26-27 explicitly forbids wasteful spending, going so far as to label the extravagant as “brothers of the devils,” indicating a deep spiritual flaw of ingratitude and disobedience. It follows the command to fulfill the rights of relatives, the poor, and travelers, emphasizing that resources should be used judiciously, with a portion allocated to those in need, rather than squandered on superfluities. Q. 31:18-19, while primarily about arrogance, often connects indirectly, as excessive display of wealth and luxury can be a manifestation of pride.
Practical Application in Daily Life:
- Moderation in Consumption: Practice moderation in all aspects of life – food, clothing, housing, and entertainment. Avoid unnecessary luxury and ostentatious displays of wealth.
- Responsible Spending: Prioritize needs over wants. Plan your finances, save, and avoid debt incurred for unnecessary extravagant purchases.
- Avoid Waste: Be mindful of not wasting food, water, energy, or any other resource. Understand that these are blessings from Allah that should be used judiciously.
- Generosity, Not Extravagance: Distinguish between generosity (giving to others, especially those in need, within moderation) and extravagance (excessive spending for personal pleasure or show). True generosity is praised, while wastefulness is condemned.
- Gratitude and Simplicity: Cultivate a heart of gratitude for Allah’s provisions and appreciate the beauty of simplicity. Find joy in experiences and relationships rather than material possessions.
Conclusion
The prohibitions outlined in the Quran are not arbitrary restrictions but divine guidance aimed at fostering a society built on justice, integrity, compassion, and well-being. By internalizing these teachings and applying them diligently in daily life, Muslims strive to embody the ethical principles of Islam, leading lives that are pleasing to Allah and beneficial to humanity. Embracing these prohibitions is a journey of self-purification, character building, and contributing positively to the world around us.
References:
- Q. 2:188: “And do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that you may knowingly consume a portion of the people’s wealth sinfully.”
- Q. 2:219: “They ask you concerning wine and gambling. Say, ‘In them is great sin, and [yet, some] benefits for people. But their sin is greater than their benefit.’…”
- Q. 5:90-91: “O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing to] stone altars, and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful. Satan only wants to cause animosity and hatred between you through intoxicants and gambling and to avert you from the remembrance of Allah and from prayer. So will you not desist?”
- Q. 5:41: “…And whoever desires the trial in regards to him, then you will not avail him from Allah at all. Those are the ones for whom Allah does not intend to purify their hearts. For them in this world is disgrace, and for them in the Hereafter is a great punishment.”
- Q. 83:1-5: “Woe to those who give less [than due], who, when they take a measure from people, take in full. But if they give by measure or by weight to them, they cause loss. Do they not think that they will be resurrected, for a tremendous Day – the Day when mankind will stand before the Lord of the worlds?”
- Q. 2:172-173: “O you who have believed, eat from the good things which We have provided for you and be grateful to Allah if it is [indeed] Him that you worship. But whoever is forced by necessity, neither intending wrongdoing nor transgressing, there is no sin upon him. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.”
- Q. 2:195: “And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.”
- Q. 4:43: “O you who have believed, do not approach prayer while you are intoxicated until you know what you are saying…”
- Q. 5:3: “Prohibited to you are dead animals, blood, the flesh of swine, and that which has been dedicated to other than Allah…”
- Q. 6:118-121: “So eat of that upon which the Name of Allah has been mentioned, if you are believers in His verses… And do not eat of that upon which the Name of Allah has not been mentioned, for indeed, that is grave disobedience…”
- Q. 31:18-19: “And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful. And be moderate in your pace and lower your voice; indeed, the most disagreeable of sounds is the voice of donkeys.”
- Q. 17:26-27: “And give the relative his due right, and [also] the poor and the traveler, and do not spend wastefully. Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.”
