Summary of 6.2 “Foundations of Islamic Ethics”
The discussion began by distinguishing between religious and secular morality. We noted that religious morality encompasses fundamental aspects such as the concept of God, belief in the hereafter, the nature of human beings, and a person’s role on Earth. In terms of the concept of God, Islam emphasizes pure and perfect monotheism, rejecting the philosophical idea of God as an impersonal being, either entirely separate from or identical to the universe.
Islam views God as a personal deity, countering polytheistic beliefs that accept multiple gods or minor deities alongside the one God, which contradicts logic and science. According to Islamic teachings, the universe is governed by a single, ultimate will, and there cannot be two conflicting powers.
We also compared Islamic monotheism with the concept of God in the Bible, highlighting differences. In the Old Testament, God is sometimes portrayed anthropomorphically, such as needing rest after creating the heavens and Earth. In the New Testament, the notion of blood sacrifice is introduced as a necessity for God’s acceptance of humanity. The emphasis on pure, consistent belief in one God is essential for shaping the ethical outlook of a believer in Islam.
Similarly, we explored the belief in the hereafter. Islam does not endorse the idea of renouncing this world to earn the next. Instead, it advocates for a balance, where both worldly and spiritual duties are harmonized, enabling individuals to fulfill their responsibilities on Earth.
6.3 “Human Nature in Islam”
Host: What are some views held by others regarding human nature?
Jamal Badawi:
Several views exist on human nature. The first sees humans as evolving animals, suggesting that the basic human nature is materialistic, with no divine plan behind creation. The second view considers humans as primarily spiritual beings, where the soul is emphasized, and the body is treated as an illusion that should be neglected or even tortured to free the soul from materialism. The third perspective regards humans as intellectual beings, placing excessive importance on intellect, seeing it as the ultimate judge, even over divine revelation. Lastly, there is the view of humans as inherently sinful beings, believing that sin is a fundamental part of human existence, inherited and requiring salvation. This idea, found in some Christian teachings, suggests that sin enslaves humanity, and salvation is achieved only through blood sacrifice.
Host: What is the Islamic perspective on these views?
Jamal Badawi:
Islam rejects the notion of humans as mere animals with no divine purpose. The Quran states, “Verily, all things have We created in proportion and measure” (Quran 54:49) and similarly, “He who created all things, and ordered them in due proportions” (Quran 25:2). The concept of random existence is alien to Islamic thought. The Quran also criticizes those who overemphasize material existence, describing them as less guided than animals because they ignore their spiritual nature (Quran 47:12, 7:178).
Regarding the view that humans are purely spiritual beings, Islam acknowledges the soul’s existence but warns against neglecting the body. Practices like body torture for spiritual salvation or adopting celibacy contradict human nature, which requires balance. Overemphasis on the spiritual side can lead to a form of monasticism unsuitable for most people and detrimental to society’s continuity.
Islam also values intellect but does not regard it as the ultimate source of knowledge. Intellect is vital, but there are multiple sources of knowledge. Over-reliance on human intellect alone can lead to confusion, as there is no absolute standard of right or wrong.
Finally, the Islamic perspective opposes the idea of original sin. Islam does not see humans as inherently fallen beings. Instead, humanity is seen as striving to overcome weaknesses and rise above shortcomings. The concept of original sin contradicts the Islamic view, where every child is born pure, like a blank slate. In Islam, sin cannot be inherited; each person is responsible for their actions.
Host: How do Muslims interpret the story of Adam and Eve without accepting the doctrine of original sin?
Jamal Badawi:
The Quran presents the story of Adam and Eve differently from the Bible. It is not merely about the first man and woman but symbolizes a universal human experience. Humans are a blend of the divine spirit and earthly matter. The physical side of our nature can lead to disobedience, while our spirituality guides us back to righteousness. The Quran narrates that Adam and Eve realized their mistake, repented, and God forgave them (Quran 2:37). There was no original sin because God, knowing their weaknesses, accepted their sincere repentance.
In Islam, human life on Earth is not a punishment for sin but part of a divine plan. Before creating humans, God informed the angels of His intention to make them “trustees” on Earth (Quran 2:30). What happened with Adam and Eve was a preparatory lesson for life on Earth.
When humans sin, the Islamic approach is straightforward: acknowledge the sin, feel remorse, seek God’s forgiveness, and resolve not to repeat it. If the sin involves another person, one must also seek their forgiveness or rectify the wrong. The Quran emphasizes this in verses like, “And those who, having done something to be ashamed of, or wronged their own souls, earnestly bring Allah to mind, and ask for forgiveness for their sins…” (Quran 3:135) and “But, without doubt, I am (also) He that forgives again and again, to those who repent, believe, and do right…” (Quran 20:82).
Host: What is the Islamic viewpoint on human nature?
Jamal Badawi:
In Islam, humans are regarded as God’s trustees. The Quran mentions, “Behold, thy Lord said to the angels: ‘I will create a vicegerent on earth.'” (Quran 2:30) and “He Who hath made you (His) agents, inheritors of the earth.” (Quran 6:165). This role as “khalifah” (trustee) highlights the dignity God has bestowed upon humanity, emphasizing that humans are the crown of creation, even commanding the angels to bow down in respect to Adam (Quran 17:70).
The secret to this dignity lies in humans’ ability to integrate the physical body, intellect, and soul harmoniously. The Quran describes humans as made from clay (material aspect), endowed with intellect, and having the spirit of God breathed into them (Quran 15:29).
Humans’ free will, and the potential for good and evil, make them unique. The Quran states, “We showed him the Way: whether he be grateful or ungrateful (rests on his will)” (Quran 76:3), emphasizing choice and accountability.
The notion of responsibility complements the freedom of choice. The Quran affirms, “Does man think that he will be left uncontrolled, (without purpose)?” (Quran 75:36). Responsibility means humans will be accountable for their actions, as stated: “That was a people that hath passed away. They shall reap the fruit of what they did, and ye of what ye do!” (Quran 2:141).
Conclusion:
Islam views humans as dignified beings with the responsibility of being God’s trustees on Earth. This role requires harmonizing body, intellect, and soul, making ethical choices, and upholding the divine purpose. Each human is born pure, free from inherited sin, and has the potential to seek God’s forgiveness through sincere repentance. The essence of Islamic ethics revolves around balancing this life and the hereafter, guided by the principle of accountability and divine trust.
