THE RELATIONSHIP OF THE CONCEPTS OF JUSTICE AND INJUSTICE TO AUTHORITY FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE QUR’AN, THE PROPHETIC (HADITH), AND MUSLIM THINKERS IN THE ((5TH AND 6TH CENTURIES AH / 11TH AND 12TH CENTURIES AD))

Abstract

This study is devoted to examining (The Relationship of the Concepts of Justice and Injustice to authority from the perspective of the Qur’an, the Prophetic (Hadith), and Muslim thinkers). Within the framework of this topic, several clear linguistic and terminological definitions of the concepts of both justice and injustice are presented in order to clarify their meanings, particularly regarding the implementation of justice and the avoidance of oppression by those in positions of power. God Almighty mentions in numerous verses of the Noble Qur’an the virtue and goodness of justice in governance, praising those who adhere to it in accordance with Islamic law (Sharia). At the same time, He warns officials and those in authority against using their power to oppress or exploit their citizens. Likewise, many sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasize the necessity of establishing justice. These hadiths explain that the purpose of justice is to preserve social cohesion, harmony, and unity within society. They also highlight the elevated status of the just ruler in the sight of God and His Messenger (peace be upon him), stating that his reward on the Day of Judgment will be Paradise. Conversely, any ruler who oppresses his people and persists in oppression incurs the displeasure of God Almighty and will face the punishment of Hell. Muslim thinkers have recorded discussions of justice and injustice in governance in their works and expressed their views on the matter. They unanimously agree that a ruler must uphold justice in accordance with Islamic law, treating citizens equally without discrimination. They also stress that the ruler should appoint competent, knowledgeable, and just individuals to manage the affairs of the state. Under the protection of justice, a nation flourishes in all fields and achieves progress, whereas the injustice of a ruler drives the country toward instability and dark future, leading to hardship and the eventual decline of the state.