Prophet Muhammad’s Justice: An Example for All Humanity
Mufti Junaid Ahmad Qasmi
Allah Almighty sent Prophet Muhammad (saws) as a mercy for all mankind to guide them to the right path. Prophet Muhammad (saws) not only invited people to follow Allah’s way, but his exemplary morals, peace, and his justice also led humanity to the right path. His life serves as a model for all human beings, especially in matters of justice, which stands as an enduring example for all humanity until the Day of Resurrection. He acted with fairness, and his justice became a source of guidance for all.
Justice is one of the most important teachings in Islam. Allah Almighty highlighted the purpose of sending Prophet Muhammad (saws) to establish justice, as the Quran says: “We have already sent Our messengers with clear evidences and sent down with them the Scripture and the balance that the people may maintain [their affairs] in justice…”(Surah Hadid,25)
Prophet Muhammad (saws) said:
“The just will be seated upon pulpits of light beside Allah, on the right hand of the Merciful, Exalted and Glorious. Both His hands are right hands. These are the ones who practiced justice in their rulings, with their families, and in all that they undertook.” (Muslim, 1827)
Let’s take a glance at the life of the Prophet (saws) regarding justice.
Prophet Muhammad’s Justice, Even against Himself:
When the Prophet (saws) was on the way to the Battle of Badr, he disliked receiving different treatment from his companions and wanted to bear the same difficulties and hardships that they endured. Abdullah ibne Mas’ud (ra) reported: “During the Battle of Badr, three of us shared one camel. Abu Lubabah and Ali bin Abu Talib were with the Messenger of Allah (saws), and it was the Prophet’s turn to walk. The other two said, ‘We will walk instead of you and let you ride.’ The Prophet (saws) replied, ‘You are not stronger than me, and I am not in less need of rewards than you.’” (Ahmad)
Prophet Muhammad’s Justice, Even against His Companions:
One famous incident involved a woman from the Quraysh tribe who had stolen something. Some people approached the Prophet to intercede and ask for her pardon. The Prophet (saws) responded, “If my daughter Fatimah had stolen, I would have cut off her hand.” This event demonstrates that the Prophet upheld justice impartially, even when it involved someone as close to him as his daughter.
Justice between his Wives:
The Prophet’s fairness was also evidence in his treatment of his wives. Aisha (rah) reported: “When the Messenger of Allah (saws) intended to go on a journey, he would cast lots among his wives, and whichever one’s name was drawn, he would take her with him.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2593)
Justice between Children:
An example of the Prophet’s justice between children is narrated by An-Nu’man ibne Bashir (ra). He said: “My father gave me a gift, but my mother, Amra bint Rawahah, insisted that the Messenger of Allah (saws) bear witness to it. So my father went to the Prophet (saws) and told him about the gift. The Prophet (saws) asked, ‘Did you give the same gift to all your children?’ When my father said, no, the Prophet (saws) said, ‘Fear Allah and be just to your children.’ So, my father took the gift back.” (Al-Bukhari, 2587)
In summary, the character of Prophet Muhammad (saws) exemplifies that justice was a fundamental aspect of his personality. If the world desires to free itself from injustice and cruelty, it should follow the character of the Prophet. His life was covered with cooperation, peace, and justice. Today, more than ever, there is a need for justice in dealing with wives, children, companions, and even enemies. Justice should prevail in every aspect of life—whether in social, political, or religious matters. The concept of justice reflected in the life of the Prophet continues to guide humanity. In today’s world, filled with injustice and oppression, the teachings of the Prophet on justice can address many issues and illuminate the darkness of unfairness. Through adopting the Prophet’s example of justice, peace and fairness can prevail.
