Social Teachings of the Quran

The Quran contains guidance for humankind. It covers everything that people need to find true happiness and success in this life and the next. A major part of that is the social teachings of the Quran. The foremost duty of people is to know the One True God properly and to worship Him alone according to His terms and conditions. A part of that is obedience to God and living in a way pleasing to Him. A major part of pleasing God is our social interactions. The Messenger Muhammad said that the best of people are those most beneficial to others.

The Quran speaks about the different social responsibilities we have. This includes monetary assistance to those who require it, such as the poor, needy, orphans, etc. God says, “Spend in God’s cause: do not contribute to your destruction with your own hands [by not spending and withholding], but do good, for God loves those who do good.” [2:195] The rewards of spending are described in a parable, “Those who spend their wealth in God’s cause are like a seed of grain that produces seven ears, each bearing a hundred grains. God gives multiple increases to whoever He wishes: He is limitless and all knowing.” [2:261]

Another social aspect stressed in the Quran is to honour the rights of others. This is stressed in the Quran, particularly regarding parents, spouses, children, and others too, such as close relatives. God says, “Your Lord has commanded that you should worship none but Him and that you be kind to your parents. If either or both of them reach old age with you, say no word that shows impatience with them, and do not be harsh with them, but speak to them respectfully.” [17:23]

A further aspect of social teachings mentioned in the Quran is good character, manners, and etiquette. This refers to one’s behavior and manners, and the way they treat others. God says, “Do not turn your nose up at people, nor walk about the place arrogantly, for God does not love arrogant or boastful people.” [31:18] To be kind, merciful, and helpful to others is what God loves and enjoins.

Another aspect of the social teachings of Islam is refraining from harming others. This includes all forms of oppression, injustice, and harm. The Quran forbids lying, cheating, insults, backbiting, slander, breaking oaths, taking bribes, deception, breaking promises and treaties, and all such similar things. Character traits that lead to these actions are also warned against, such as arrogance, pride, anger, jealousy, enmity, and so on.

Instead, the Quran commands kindness, justice, mercy to others, patience and forbearance, and good character. God says, “God commands justice, doing good, and generosity towards relatives and He forbids what is shameful, blameworthy, and oppressive. He teaches you, so that you may take heed.” [16:90] Thus, the Quran calls to all that is good and befitting of a servant of God who seeks to please Him and hopes for His everlasting reward.