Mukhtar Ahmad Qureshi
Haqooq Ul Ibaad pertains to the rights that human beings enjoy. In terms of the context of Islamic philosophy, Haqooq Ul Ibaad is of prime importance as they are the basic foundations of creating a compassionate society and an individual living in peace. Haqooq Allah is quite essential for human development and how one deals with his/ her Creator, but Haqooq Ul Ibaad emphasizes more on human socialization how man treats man. It is a principle that transcends religion and resonates universally, it encourages kindness, justice, and empathy in all human interactions.
Understanding Haqooq Ul Ibaad
Haqooq Ul Ibaad is the duties and obligations owed by one human to another. These include, respecting others’ rights, fulfillment of promises, showing kindness to people, helping the needy, and avoiding harm or injustice to any person. The Quran and Hadith repeatedly stress the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships and serving humanity.
For example, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “He is not a believer whose neighbour is not safe from his harm.”
This Hadith points to the core of Haqooq Ul Ibaad protection of other people’s welfare and building a peaceful and trustworthy environment.
Haqooq Ul Ibaad elements
1. Respect and Dignity: Respecting others, regardless of their race, religion, or social status, is paramount. Islam advocates treating every individual with dignity, as reflected in the Quranic verse:
“We have certainly honoured the children of Adam.” (Surah Al-Isra: 17:70).
2. Justice and Fairness: Justice is a cornerstone of a compassionate society. Whether in personal relationships, workplaces, or communities, ensuring fairness strengthens societal bonds. Allah commands in the Quran:
“Indeed, Allah commands you to uphold justice and to do good.” (Surah An-Nahl: 16:90).
3. Support of the poor: The betterment of a nation depends on how it lifts its weak ones. Zakat and Sadaqah are more than a religious duty, it is also a social requirement. Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) said,
“Best of people are those who are beneficial to others”.
4. Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Mistakes and misunderstandings are part of human relationships. Forgiveness heals and strengthens unity. The Quran encourages the faithful to forgive:
“Pardon them and overlook their faults. Do you not wish that Allah should forgive you?” (Surah An-Nur: 24:22).
Difficulties in Implementing Haqooq Ul Ibaad
Despite its significance, it is very difficult to fulfill Haqooq Ul Ibaad in today’s fast-paced world. The selfishness, materialism, and inequality that occur in societies lead to neglect of these principles. Meanwhile, misunderstandings, prejudice, and lack of sympathy create barriers in trying to build a compassionate society.
Modern societies also face systemic problems like poverty, corruption, and injustice, which affect their ability to enforce Haqooq Ul Ibaad. Collective efforts must be made to work for these values.
Steps towards a compassionate society
1. Educate and raise awareness: Instillation of the principles of Haqooq Ul Ibaad in schools, mosques, and community centres helps foster such values in young persons. Education helps build thought and encourages people to conduct acts of empathy and goodwill.
2. Voluntarism: A real life example of showing obedience to Haqooq Ul Ibaad includes volunteering for social causes. This can be activities, such as feeding the hungry, supporting orphans, or assisting the elderly, inspire others and create an even better ripple effect.
3. Strengthening interfaith bonds: Building bridges between other communities in promoting mutual respect and understanding also improves interfaith dialogue through getting rid of stereotypes and teamwork to achieve the common goal.
4. Strengthening family and community bonds: The family is the nucleus of society. Family bonding and resolving conflicts with patience and love are the very essence of Haqooq Ul Ibaad. In the same way, community programs that foster unity can bring social cohesion.
5. Accountability of leaders: Leaders and institutions are the custodians of justice and fairness. Citizens must hold their leaders accountable to ensure policies are aligned with the principles of compassion and equality.
Spiritual Benefits of Haqooq Ul Ibaad
Satisfying Haqooq Ul Ibaad not only benefits society but also has immense spiritual rewards. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) had said that Allah may forgive a deficiency in Haqooq Allah, but a violation of Haqooq Ul Ibaad demands reconciliation with the victim. This clarifies the seriousness of human rights in the teachings of Islam. The Quran states for the believers:
Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while being a believer We will surely cause him to live a good life, and We will surely give them their reward [in the Hereafter]” (Surah An-Nahl: 16:97
Haqooq Ul Ibaad forms the foundation of a compassionate and just society. When a person prioritizes the rights and well-being of others, he or she contributes to a culture of empathy, fairness, and unity. In a world full of division and conflict, the values of Haqooq Ul Ibaad are the answer to an ageold question, how to maintain harmony and peace. It is not just a religious duty but a universal call to humanity reminding that true spirituality lies in the service of others. Individuals and communities must strive to follow these values so that actions speak of compassion, justice, and love for all.
(The author hails from Boniyar, Baramulla and can be reached at [email protected])
