Contrary to popular belief, the struggle for universal human rights is not a
modern one. Although there is a claim that human rights is a Western concept or
ideology, Islam was among the first institutions to advocate and implement such
rights as universal equality and women’s rights. In fact, Islam promoted the
universality of the human experience over 1300 years before the United Nations
declared it to exist. Although the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is an
excellent step towards acknowledging the importance of human rights on a
worldwide political and legal level, in reality it is not binding any
government, and therefore it is often ignored. Islam on the other hand, does not
limit human rights to political and legal standards.
Islam advocates human rights as part of a complete way of life. Human rights are
inextricable from Islam and Islam, in return, requires that human rights be
acknowledged and respected by all Muslims. Realistically speaking, the concept
of human rights was thought of, but not taken seriously, by the time humanity
had entered the 7th century. Before Islam entered the global stage, oppression
was common, women were regarded as property in many parts of the world, and the
right to a fair and public hearing was unheard of. If human rights are one of
the standards by which we can judge a civilization, a close reading of history
will reveal that the world was not very civilized before the rise of Islam.
There were many wonderful civilizations before Islam; however, they are held in
high regard mostly because of their contributions in the field of arts and
sciences, and consequently, the production of tangible contributions to
humanity. Unfortunately these same civilizations were also engaged in the brutal
repression of many human rights. If there were any advances in civil, economic,
or human rights, they were dependent on the particular ruler or government then
in place, and were not necessarily extended by the successor, who might have had
his own ideas on how to govern his empire. Then the message of Islam spread
with—and beyond—its borders at a stunning pace. History affirms the claim that
Islam is a universal message to all people.
Islam was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as a merciful and eternal religion
that fits for all ages. If during his life, man submits to the Will of Allah, he
can depend on His mercy in life and in the Day of Judgment.
“And We have not sent you but as a mercy to the world’s.” - Holy Qur’an (21:107)
Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:
“Surely, I am a granted mercy.”
Islam enhances each individual’s self-respect: it establishes the true and only
equality open to man - the equality in surrender to Allah for His service
amongst mankind. Such surrender gives each one the chance to find his place in
the whole without faction, partisanship rule or superiority. Everyone is his own
master.
Islam is a religion that gives high respect to human rights. It regulates every
detail of personal and community life in equity. It is the guardian of freedom
before Allah- Its first and paramount thought is unity. It excludes no one -
though some exclude themselves: it opposes no one-though some may oppose
themselves to it. It makes no differences - though some may choose to be
different.
The freedom that Islam grants is based on commitment and responsibility without
which one can enjoy no true freedom.
Freedom without rules leads to the breakdown and corruption of the moral and
social order. Allah says:
“Say, O People of the Scripture! Let us reason together, that we worship none
but Allah and we associate nothing with Allah, and that we do not set up from
among ourselves lords other than Allah. But if they turn away, then say, Bear
witness that we are Muslims.” - Holy Qur’an (3-64)
Today, people are in desperate need for unity, justice and freedom. They want to
be saved from exploitation and war.
They wander lost, like sheep gone astray. Let them turn to the sunshine of
Islam. Under that common sun, all - black, white, red and yellow-are equal in
justice, freedom and equality. For Islam, true excellence lies, not in the
intellectual or manual attainments of people of differing gifts; but in the
level of piety and fear of Allah. These are equally open to all whatever their
other gifts. Allah says:
“O Mankind: We created you from a male and a female; and made you into tribes
and nations that you may get to know each other. And verily, most honored before
God is the most virtuous.” - Holy Qur’an (49:13)
Prophet Muhammad (SAW) asserted saying:
“Arab is not more privileged than non-Arab, nor white than black. Spiritual
excellence and true piety is the only distinction amongst humans recognized by
Allah.”
Submission to the will and laws of Allah is the essence of freedom. It liberates
the mind, soul, and behavior from the evil influences of the world. It helps
mankind overcome oppressive tyrants, unjust laws, lusts, deviation and
psychological complexes, which enslave his will. Submission to the will of Allah
grants man the right to choose for his life, to live his life in a moral and
upright way.
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