Human Rights in Islam

Presenter: Aurangzeb Zafar

Outline

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1. Importance of Human rights in Islam

2. Sanctity of life

3. Protection of property, belongings and honor

4. Rights to freedom, peace, justice and equality

5. Rights of women

6. Rights of parents, spouse, children and the elderly

7. Rights of relatives, neighbors, and orphans

8. Rights of the poor, workers, self, and others

9. Rights to freedom of speech and contribute in policy making

10. Rights of animals and environment

Some terms/keywords

• Allah = God in Arabic

• Muhammad (PBUH)

• Qur’an = Koran

• Islam

• PBUH = peace be upon him

• We = Plural of respect in Arabic

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Human Rights in Islam

• Islam defines rights of human beings and gives them importance

• Excerpt from a speech by a Muslim refugee Jaffar from the very early days of Islam, in the court of King Negus of Ethiopia

• “O King, we were an ignorant people, worshipping idols, eating carrion and indulging in sexual pleasures. We teased our neighbors, a brother oppressed his brother, and the strong devoured up the weak. At this time a man rose amongst us, who had already been known to be truthful, noble and honest. This man called us to Islam; and taught us to give up worshipping stones, to speak the truth, to refrain from blood-shed and not to defraud the orphans of their property. He taught us to provide comfort to our neighbors and not to bring a slander against chaste women. He enjoined upon us to offer prayers, observe fasts and give alms. We followed him, gave up polytheism and idolatry and refrained from all evil deeds. It is for this new idea that our people have become hostile to us and compel us to return to our old misguided life.”

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Right to live

• Islam’s emphasis on the Sanctity of Life

• Killing one innocent person = killing the

whole mankind

• irrespective of religion, color, race, gender,

etc.

• Exceptions – murderer / Mufsid

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• 5:32. If anyone killed a person not in retaliation of murder, or (and) to spread Fasaad in the land - it would be as if he killed all mankind, and if anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of all mankind.

• 17:33. And do not kill anyone which Allah has forbidden, except for a just cause. And whoever is killed, We have given his heir the authority. But let him not exceed limits in the matter of taking life. Verily, he is helped (by the law).

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Right to be saved

• Saving one human life = Saving the whole

mankind

• 5:32 …and if anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of all mankind.

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, http://www.123rf.com/stock-photo/discontent_people.html and http://www.auburnmaine.org/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC={589503C1-1511-4EBE-BF58-B5070AE40C56}

Right to practice religion freely

• Right to live without being persecuted

• Trials and persecutions are termed as “Fitnah” in the Qur’an

• Especially when people are persecuted because of their

religious beliefs

• Fitnah is worse and greater than even killing

• Enforcing religion on others is also forbidden – no coercion

• 2:191. And Al-Fitnah (persecution) is worse than killing

• 2:217. And Al-Fitnah (persecution) is greater than killing

• 2:256. There is no compulsion in religion. Verily, the Right Path has become distinct from the wrong path.

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Right of safety, protection and peace

• Islam ensures the safety of the human beings, their homes, businesses, properties and possessions.

• It ensures a safe and peaceful environment

• “Fasaad” is Terrorism, vandalism, robbery, piracy, oppression, etc.

• Allah hates Fasaad and orders believers to not indulge in it

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• 2:205. …Allah does not like “Fasaad”

• 7:56. And do not do Fasaad on the earth, after it has been set in order, and invoke Him with fear and hope; Surely, Allah's Mercy is (ever) near unto the good-doers.

Image, courtesy: http://publicsafety.ohio.gov/NPM/ReadyForTerrorism.stm

Right of safety, protection and peace

• Maximum penalty for doing Fasaad is death (through law)

(5:33-34)

• Believers are asked to strive (do Jihad) against Fitnah and

Fasaad

• This struggle against Fitnah & Fasaad can become an

armed struggle

• 22:39-40."Permission to fight (against oppressors) is given to those who are fought against, because they have been wronged; and surely, Allah is Able to give them victory - Those who have been expelled from their homes unjustly only because they said: "Our Lord is Allah." For had it not been that Allah checks one set of people by means of another, monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques, wherein the Name of Allah is mentioned much would surely have been pulled down. Verily, Allah will help those who help His (Cause: Justice, equality, etc.) . Truly, Allah is All-Strong, All-Mighty."

• 2:193. …And fight them until there is no more Fitnah

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Right of safety, protection and peace

• Believers are asked to strive (do Jihad) against Fitnah and

Fasaad

• Jihad is a blessing on mankind

• 4:75. And what is wrong with you that you fight not in the Cause of Allah, and for those weak, ill-treated and oppressed among men, women, and children, whose cry is: “Our Lord! Rescue us from this town whose people are oppressors; and raise for us from You one who will protect, and raise for us from You one who will help.”

• 7:73 if you (believers) do not do so (unite and fight the oppression), there will be Fitnah and oppression on earth, and a great Fasaad.

• 2:251 And if Allah did not check one set of people by means of another, the earth would indeed be full of Fasaad. But Allah is full of Bounty to the worlds.

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Right of protection of honor

• Backbiting is prohibited

• Calling names, mocking at others, or damaging repute by

any means is prohibited

• 49:12. O you who believe! Avoid much suspicions, indeed some suspicions are sins. And spy not, neither backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You would hate it (so hate backbiting) . And fear Allah. Verily, Allah is the One Who accepts repentance, Most Merciful.

• 49:11. O you who believe! Let not a group scoff at another group, it may be that the latter are better than the former; nor let (some) women scoff at other women, it may be that the latter are better than the former, nor defame one another, nor insult one another by nicknames. How bad is it, to insult one's brother after having Faith. And whosoever does not repent, then such are indeed wrong-doers.

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Right of protection of honor

• Slandering is prohibited

• Accusing chaste women (and also men) is one of the

grave sins

• 104:1. Woe to every slanderer and backbiter.

• 33:58. And those who annoy believing men and women undeservedly, bear on themselves the crime of slander and plain sin.

• 24:23. Verily, those who accuse chaste women, who never even think of anything touching their chastity and are good believers, are cursed in this life and in the Hereafter, and for them will be a great torment

• 24:4. And those who accuse chaste women, and produce not four witnesses, flog them with eighty stripes, and reject their testimony forever, they indeed are the disobedient to Allah.

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Equality of human beings under law

• All human beings are from Adam and Eve

• All are equal – no superiority based on color, race,

gender, nation, tribe, language, religion, history,

authority, position, status, power, wealth, etc.

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• 49:13. O mankind! We have created you from a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know one another. Verily, the most honorable of you with Allah is that (believer) who is righteous. Verily, Allah is All-Knowing, All-Aware. (49:13)

• All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor a black has any superiority over white except by piety and good action. (excerpt from Prophet Muhammad’s sermon of Farewell Pilgrimage)

Image, courtesy: http://www.ldjackson.net/news-politics/to-disagree-with-president-obama-is-not-racism/

Equality of human beings under law

• The only reason for superiority is

righteousness

• But it is only for God to judge

• Diversity is a sign from God, and actually

a blessing

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• 53:32. He knows you well when He created you from the earth (Adam), and when you were fetuses in your mothers' wombs. So ascribe no purity to yourselves. He knows best him who fears Allah and keep his duty to Him.

• 30:22. And among His Signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the difference of your languages and colors. Verily, in that are indeed signs for everyone.Image, courtesy: http://stay-blessed.blogspot.com/2011/01/no-racism.html

Equality of human beings under law

• Islam practically teaches equality

through prayers and pilgrimage

• It condemns arrogance

• And teaches humility

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• 39:60. Is there not in Hell an abode for the arrogant ones?

• 31:18. “And turn not your face away from men with pride, nor walk in insolence through the earth. Verily, Allah likes not each arrogant boaster.”

• 17:37. And walk not on the earth with conceit and arrogance. Verily, you can neither rend nor penetrate the earth, nor can you attain a stature like the mountains in height.

• 25:63. And the slaves of the Most Beneficent (Allah) are those who walk on the earth in humility and sedateness.

Image, courtesy: http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/news/category/religion/page/2/

Right to live as a free person

• Dark history of slavery

• Slavery continued in the West until the mid of 19th century

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, http://brotherpeacemaker.wordpress.com/2007/12/ and http://harryallen.info/?m=200904&paged=2

Right to live as a free person

• Islam gave the right to individuals to live as free persons

centuries ago

• In Islam, no free person can be enslaved and/or sold in

slavery

• Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, “Allah says, ‘I will be against three persons on the Day of Resurrection: 1. One who makes a covenant in My Name, but he proves treacherous. 2. One who sells a free person (as a slave) and eats the price, 3. And one who employs a laborer and gets the full work done by him but does not pay him his wages.’ ” (Bukhari, Book #34, Hadith #430)

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How Islam dealt with slavery

• To deal with existing slaves, Islam ordered its adherents to

treat slaves kindly

• 4:36. … and do good to …, and those (slaves) whom your right hands possess.

• Narrated Abu Musa: Allah's Apostle said, “He who has a slave-girl and educates and treats her nicely and then manumits and marries her, will get a double reward.” (Bukhari, Book #46, Hadith #720)

• Narrated Abu Huraira: I heard Abu-l-Qasim (the Prophet) saying, "If somebody slanders his slave and the slave is free from what he says, he will be flogged on the Day of Resurrection unless the slave is really as he has described him." (Bukhari, Book #82, Hadith #841)

• Qur’an 24:32-33

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How Islam dealt with slavery

• Islam prescribed liberation of slaves as expiation of certain

sins

• Expiation for unintentionally killing a believer (4:92)

• Expiation for unfulfilled oaths (5:89)

• Expiation for declaring wives unlawful (58:3)

• 5:89. …for expiation of (not fulfilling intentional oaths) feed ten poor persons, on a scale of the average of that with which you feed your own families; or clothe them; or manumit a slave… And protect your oaths. Thus Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be grateful.

• 58:3. And those who make unlawful to them (their wives) and wish to free themselves from what they uttered, (the penalty) in that case (is) the freeing of a slave before they touch each other. That is an admonition to you. And Allah is All-Aware of what you do.

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How Islam dealt with slavery

• Islam declares liberating slaves as one of the most virtuous,

noble and meritorious acts and urges its adherents to

purchase and set slaves free

• 2:177. It is not righteousness… but righteousness is (the quality of) the one who believes in Allah, …, and to set slaves free, ….

• 90:11-13. But he has made no effort to pass on the path that is steep. And what will make you know the path that is steep? (It is) Freeing a neck (slave, etc.)

• Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, "Whoever frees a Muslim slave, Allah will save all the parts of his body from the (Hell) Fire as he has freed the body-parts of the slave.“ (Bukhari, Book #46, Hadith #693)

• Asma' bint Abu Bakr narrated that the Prophet ordered Muslims to free slaves at the time of solar as well lunar eclipses. (Bukhari)

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Right to justice

• Islam emphasizes much on justice

• Establishing justice was crucial part of the

Prophetic mission

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• 57:25. Indeed We have sent Our Messengers with clear proofs, and revealed with them the Scripture and the Balance (justice) that mankind may keep up justice.

• 38:26. O David! Verily! We have placed you as a successor on earth, so judge you between men in truth (and justice) and follow not your desire for it will mislead you from the Path of Allah.

• 4:105. Surely, We have sent down to you (O Muhammad PBUH) the Book (the Qur’an) in truth that you might judge between men by that which Allah has shown you (through Divine Inspiration), so be not a pleader for the treacherous.

Image, courtesy: http://blog.wineenthusiast.com/2008/12/

Right to justice

• Islam orders its adherents to do justice

• Even if it goes against oneself or one’s relatives, rich or

poor

• They are asked not to avoid justice in the enmity and

hatred of others

• 4:135. O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even though it be against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, be he rich or poor, Allah is a Better Protector to both (than you). So follow not the lusts (of your hearts), lest you may avoid justice, and if you distort your witness or refuse to give it, verily, Allah is Ever Well-Acquainted with what you do.

• 5:8. O you who believe! Stand out firmly for Allah and be just witnesses and let not the enmity and hatred of others make you avoid justice. Be just: that is nearer to piety, and fear Allah. Verily, Allah is Well-Acquainted with what you do.

• 7:29. Say (O Muhammad PBUH): My Lord has commanded justice…

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Right to be given equal treatment

• Islam gives everyone the right to be treated equally and

given equal opportunities to prosper

• Dividing people in classes, empowering certain classes and

oppressing others is prohibited

• 28:4. Verily, Pharaoh exalted himself in the land and made its people sects, weakening (oppressing) a group (i.e. Children of Israel) among them, killing their sons, and letting their females live. Verily, he was of those who do Fasaad.

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Rights of parents

• Allah describes parents’ right just after His own

rights, in the Qur’an

• He orders people to be kind, dutiful, thankful and respectful to parents

• And serve them when they grow old, and pray for them

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• 17:23-24. And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honor. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: “My Lord! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was small.” Your Lord knows best what is in your inner-selves. If you are righteous, then, verily, He is Ever Most Forgiving to those who turn unto Him again and again in obedience, and in repentance.

Image, courtesy: http://www.superstock.com/stock-photos-images/1439R-1051699

Rights of parents

• Mothers are given special status (3 times higher than

fathers’) in Islam

• Paradise lies under the feet of one’s mother

• 31:14. And We have enjoined on man (to be dutiful and good) to his parents. His mother bore him in weakness and hardship upon weakness and hardship, and his weaning is in two years, give thanks to Me and to your parents, unto Me is the final destination.

• Abu Huraira reported that a person came to Allah's Messenger (PBUH) and said: Who among the people is most deserving of a fine treatment from my hand? He said: Your mother. He again said: Then who (is the next one)? He said: Again it is your mother (who deserves the best treatment from you). He said: Then who (is the next one)? He said: Again, it is your mother. He (again) said: Then who? Thereupon he said: Then it is your father. [Muslim]

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Status of women

• Birth of a girl is not a disgrace, it is a blessing

• Bringing up girls kindly can get one Paradise

• 16:58-59. And when the news of (the birth of) a female (child) is brought to any of them, his face becomes dark, and he is filled with inward grief! He hides himself from the people because of the evil of that whereof he has been informed. Shall he keep her with dishonor or bury her in the earth ? Certainly, evil is their decision.

• 42:49. To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. He creates what He wills. He bestows female children to whomever He wills and bestows male children to whomever He wills.

• “He who is involved in bringing up daughters, and accords benevolent treatment towards them, they will be protection for him against Hell-Fire” [Bukhari].

26Image, courtesy: http://www.elca.org/Our-Faith-In-Action/Life-Transitions/Family-Relations/Domestic-Violence.aspx

Status of women

• Eve is not the cause for Adam’s fall, both were deceived by

Satan

• Women are equal to men as human beings and share the

same honor

• 2:36. Then the Satan made them (both Adam and Eve) slip therefrom (the garden), and got them out from that in which they were.

• 3:195. “And their Lord answered them: Truly I will never cause to be lost the work of any of you, Be you a male or female, you are members one of another”

• 40:40. “Whoever works evil will not be requited but by the like thereof, and whoever works a righteous deed -whether man or woman- and is a believer- such will enter the Garden of bliss”

• 16:97. “Whoever works righteousness, man or woman, and has faith, verily to him/her We will give a new life that is good and pure, and We will bestow on such their reward according to the best of their actions”

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Status of women

• Women can do good deeds just as men do and will get

equal reward

• Examples of two women Mary and Pharaoh’s wife as ideals

for all

• 33:35.“For Muslim men and women, for believing men and women, for devout men and women, for true men and women, for men and women who are patient, for men and women who humble themselves, for men and women who give in charity, for men and women who fast, for men and women who guard their chastity, and for men and women who engage much in Allah's praise-- For them all has Allah prepared forgiveness and great reward”

• “And Allah sets forth, As an example to those who believe, the wife of Pharaoh: Behold she said: 'O my lord build for me, in nearness to you, a mansion in the Garden, and save me from Pharaoh and his doings and save me from those who do wrong.' And Mary the daughter of Imran who guarded her chastity and We breathed into her body of Our spirit; and she testified to the truth of the words of her Lord and of His revelations and was one of the devout” (66:11-13).

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Status of women

• Thomas W. Lippmann, a Jewish journalist and ex

Washington Post bureau chief in Cairo said about the status

of women in Islam:

• “In a society in which women were possessions, taken and put aside like trinkets, often held in conditions approaching bondage, the Quran imposed rules and prohibitions that curbed the worst abuses, ensured women’s property rights, and encouraged men to treat women with kindness and generosity.... The Quran’s dictates on women’s legal status were quite advanced for their time, and Islam law gives women some rights more liberating than those found in Western legal codes… The Quran and the Hadith [sayings of the Prophet Muhammad] lay down rules ensuring for women the respectable and dignified status that had been denied them [in pre-Islamic society] and emphasize the stability of the family” [Thomas W. Lippman, Understanding Islam (New York: Mentor Books, 1990)].

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Rights of women

• Right to inherit

• Right to have dower and keep it if she is divorced

• Right to have independent wealth and original name after

marriage

• 4:7. “From what is left by parents and those nearest related there is a share for men and a share for women, whether the property be small or large --a determinate share”

• 4:4. And give to the women (whom you marry) their dower (obligatory bridal money given by the husband to his wife at the time of marriage) with a good heart, but if they, of their own good pleasure, remit any part of it to you, take it, and enjoy it with right good cheer.

• 4:20. But if you decide to take one wife in place of another, even if you had given the latter a whole treasure for dower, take not the least bit of it back; Would you take it by slander and a manifest wrong?

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Rights of women

• Right to bear witness

• Right to argue for her rights even with the Prophet

• Right to vow or make oath independently without males’

endorsement

• 58:1. “Allah has heard and accepted the statement of the woman who pleads with you (the Prophet) concerning her husband and carries her complaint to Allah, and Allah hears the arguments between both of you for Allah hears and sees all things”

• 60:12. “O Prophet, When believing women come to you to make a covenant with you that they will not associate in worship anything with God, nor steal, nor fornicate, nor kill their own children, nor slander anyone, nor disobey you in any just matter, then make a covenant with them and pray to God for the forgiveness of their sins. Indeed God is Forgiving and most Merciful”

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Rights of spouse

• Spouses provide tranquility and Allah puts mercy and love in

their hearts

• They have the right to fulfill their sexual needs

• Spouses should treat each other with kindness and equity

• But they have the right to divorce if there is no way out

• 30:21. “And among His signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may dwell in tranquility with them and He has put love and mercy between your hearts: verily in that are signs for those who reflect”

• 4:19. “Live with them (your wives) on a footing of kindness and equity. If you dislike them it may be that you dislike something in which Allah has placed a great deal of good”.

• 4:20. “But if you decide to take one wife in place of another, even if you had given the latter a whole treasure for dower, take not the least bit of it back”

32Image, courtesy: http://www.ecb.int/ecb/jobs/newcomers/html/index.en.html

Rights of spouse

• Husbands are made heads of the house

• Wives have the right to be treated with kindness

• 2:228. …And they (women) have rights similar to what is upon them (in terms of duties) in a reasonable manner, but men have a degree (of responsibility) over them. And Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.

• 4:34. Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has made one of them to excel the other, and because they spend (to support them) from their means. Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient (to Allah and husbands), and guard in the husband's absence what Allah orders them to guard.

• “The believers who show the most perfect faith are those who have the best character and the best of you are those who are best to their wives” (Tirmidthi).

33Image, courtesy: http://www.zawaj.com/tag/equality-of-men-and-women/

Rights of spouse

• Wives have the right to be treated with kindness

• Wives have the right that husbands should fulfill all

their financial needs

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• 4:19. “… on the contrary live with them on a footing of kindness and equity”

• Abu Shuraih Khuwailid bin Amr Al-Khuzai reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, "O Allah, I declare inviolable the rights of two weak ones: the orphans and women". [An-Nasai].

• 2:233. "The father of the child shall bear the cost of the mother's food and clothing on a reasonable basis".

• Sa’d bin Abi Waqas reported that Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "Whatever you spend seeking thereby the Pleasure of Allah, will have its reward, even the morsel which you put in the mouth of your wife". [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Image, courtesy: http://www.aparsai.ca/english/?p=726

Rights of children

• They should be well fed

• They have the right to be educated

• 2:233. The mothers shall give suck to their children for two whole years, (that is) for those (parents) who desire to complete the term of suckling, but the father of the child shall bear the cost of the mother's food and clothing on a reasonable basis.

• “Anas reported that the Messenger of Allah said: “The seeking of knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim” (Ibn Maajah)

35Images, courtesy: http://www.pearsoncontinuity.com/ and http://www.patlakecounty.org/

Rights of children

• They should be treated equally

• They should be loved

• An-Nu man bin Bashir said: My father took me to the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) and said to him: "I have gifted one of my slaves to this son of mine. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "Have you given such gift to every son of yours? He replied, "No. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "Be mindful of your obligation to Allah and do justice in respect of your children. My father came back and revoked his [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

• Abu Hurairah reported: The Prophet (PBUH) kissed his grandson Hasan bin 'Ali in the presence of Aqra' bin Habis. Thereupon Aqra' remarked: "I have ten children and I have never kissed any one of them. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) cast a glance upon him and said, "He who does not show mercy to others, will not be shown mercy. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

36Image, courtesy: http://blissfullydomestic.com/2009/25-ways-to-simplify-your-life-with-kids

Rights of the elderly

• They should be greeted by others

• They should be given respect and honor

• They should be given priority and

treated with

kindness and respect

37Image, courtesy: http://www.mastermarf.com/2008_05_01_archive.html and http://www.eldergadget.com/safety/8-gadgets-that-help-prevent-elderly-falls

• Abu Hurairah narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said, "The young should (initiate) salutation to the old, the passerby should (initiate) salutation to the sitting one, and the small group of persons should (initiate) salutation to the large group of persons." (Bukhari)

• The Prophet (PBUH) said, “He is not one of us who does not show mercy to our young ones and esteem to our elderly.” (Tirmidhi)

• It was narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said, “Gabriel ordered me to give priority to the elderly." (Al-Fawa'id, AbuBakrAsh-Shafi`i)

Right to inheritance

• Everyone is given the right to inherit from parents and

relatives

• While dividing inheritance something should be given to the

poor

• For non-heirs one can bequeath up to 1/3 of one’s

inheritance (2:180)

• Qur’an describes details about share of every relative (e.g.

4:11, 12, 176)

• 4:33. And to everyone, We have appointed heirs of that (property) left by parents and relatives. To those also with whom you have made a pledge, give them their due portion (by wills). Truly, Allah is Ever a Witness over all things.

• 4:7-8. There is a share for men and a share for women from what is left by parents and those nearest related, whether, the property be small or large - a legal share. And when the relatives and the orphans and the poor are present at the time of division, give them out of the property, and speak to them words of kindness and justice.

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Rights of the relatives

• One should have good relationship with relatives

• Abu Hurairah reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, "He who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him show hospitality to his guest; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him maintain good relation with kins; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

• Aishah reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "The bond of relationship is suspending from the Throne, and says: He who keeps good relations with me, Allah will keep connection with him, but whosoever severs relations with me, Allah will sever connection with him". [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]. 39

Rights of the relatives

• One should help one’s relatives

• One should not cut the bonds of relationship, it’s a big sin

• 30:38. So give to the kindred his due, and to the poor and to the wayfarer. That is best for those who seek Allah's pleasure, and it is they who will be successful.

• 24:22. And let not those among you who are blessed with graces and wealth swear not to give (any sort of help) to their kinsmen, the poor, and those who left their homes for Allah's Cause. Let them pardon and forgive. Do you not love that Allah should forgive you? And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

• 13:25. And those who break the Covenant of Allah, after its ratification, and sever that which Allah has commanded to be joined (i.e. they sever the bond of kinship and are not good to their relatives), and do Fasaad in the land, on them is the curse; And for them is the unhappy home (i.e. Hell).

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Rights of the neighbors

• They should not be harmed in any way

• Abu Hurairah reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, "By Allah, he is not a believer ! By Allah, he is not a believer! By Allah, he is not a believer. It was asked, "Who is that, O Messenger of Allah? He said, "One whose neighbor does not feel safe from his evil". [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

• Abu Hurairah reported: Messenger of Allah said, "He who believes in Allah and the Last Day let him not harm his neighbor… [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

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Rights of the neighbors

• They should be treated with kindness

• 4:36. “…and do good to…the neighbor who is near of kin and the neighbor who is a stranger…”

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• Ibn Umar and Aishah reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Gabriel kept recommending treating neighbors with kindness until I thought he would assign a share of (neighbors in one’s) inheritance". [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

• Abdullah bin Umar reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "The best of companions with Allah is the one who is best to his companions, and the best of neighbors to Allah is the one who is the best of them to his neighbor". [Tirmidhi].

Image, courtesy: http://psychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com/2007_11_01_archive.html

Rights of the orphans

• They should not be deprived of their properties

• 2:220. "And they ask you concerning orphans. Say: 'The best thing is to work honestly in their property, and if you mix your affairs with theirs, then they are your brothers. And Allah knows him who means mischief (e.g., to swallow their property) from him who means good (e.g., to save their property).

• 6:152. “And come not near to the orphan s property, except to improve it.”

• 4:10. “Verily, those who unjustly eat up the property of orphans, they eat up only fire into their bellies, and they will be burnt in the blazing Fire!”

43Images, courtesy: http://www.cnjianqing.com/index.php?key=needy, http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/beliefs.html and http://therealrevo.com/blog/?p=24789

Rights of the orphans

• They should be raised up and treated with kindness

• Sahl bin Sa'd reported: the Prophet (PBUH) said, “I will be like this in Paradise with the person who takes care of an orphan”. Messenger of Allah (PBUH) raised his forefinger and middle finger by way of illustration. [Al-Bukhari].

• 107:1-3. Have you seen him who denies the Recompense? That is he who repulses the orphan (harshly), And urges not the feeding of the poor

• 93:9. “Therefore, treat not the orphan with oppression.”

• 89:17-19. Nay! But you treat not the orphans with kindness and generosity (i.e. you neither treat them well, nor give them their exact right of inheritance)! And urge not on the feeding of the poor! And you devour inheritance all with greed

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Rights of the poor

• They are the recipients of obligatory charity (Zakah)

• They should be fed and given money (on top of Zakah)

• 9:60. Charity is for the poor… and to free the captives; and for those in debt…and for the wayfarer (who is needy); a duty imposed by Allah. And Allah is All-Knower, All-Wise.

• Abdullah bin Amr bin Al- as reported: A man asked Messenger of Allah (PBUH), “Which act in Islam is the best? He (PBUH) replied, “To feed (the poor and the needy) and to greet those whom you know and those you do not know.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

• 22:28. …then eat thereof and feed therewith the poor who have a very hard time

• 74:43-44. They (dwellers of hell) will say: “We were not of those who used to offer their prayers Nor we used to feed the poor”

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Rights of the poor

• They should be fed as expiation of some sins (2:184, 196,

5:89,95, 58:4, etc)

• People should urge each other to feed and help the poor

• 76:8-9. And they give food, inspite of their love for it, to the poor, the orphan, and the captive, (Saying): "We feed you seeking Allah's Countenance only. We wish for no reward, nor thanks from you.

• 69:33-34. Verily, He (dweller of hell) used not to believe in Allah, the Most Great, And urged not on the feeding of the poor

• 107:1-3. Have you seen him who denies the Recompense? That is he who repulses the orphan (harshly), And urges not the feeding of the poor

• 89:17-19. Nay! But you treat not the orphans with kindness and generosity. And urge not on the feeding of the poor. And you devour inheritance all with greed

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Rights of workers and laborers

• They should not be deprived of their wages

• They should be paid their wages in time

• The should not be over-burdened

• Abu Hurairah reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, "Allah, the Exalted, says: 'I will contend on the Day of Resurrection against three (types of) people: One who makes a covenant in My Name and then breaks it; one who sells a free man as a slave and devours his price; and one who hires a workman and having taken full work from him, does not pay him his wages. [Al-Bukhari].

• The Prophet (PBUH) said: "Give to the worker his wages before his sweat dries." [Ibn Majah]

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Rights of self

• Our bodies have a right on us

• Giving torture to oneself or suicide is not allowed

• Abdullah is reported to have said that Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said to him, “O Abdullah! Have I not been informed that you observe fast during the day and offer prayer all the night. I replied, "Yes, O Messenger of Allah! Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "Don’t do that. Observe fast for few days and then leave off for few days, perform prayers and also sleep at night, as your body has a right upon you, and your eyes have a right upon you; and your wife has a right upon you; your visitors have a right upon you...”

• 4:29. And do not kill yourselves. Surely, Allah is Most Merciful to you.

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Rights towards each other

• One should greet others

• One should smile at others

• One should be humble towards others and cooperate for the cause of good

• Abdullah bin Salam reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) saying, "O people, exchange greetings of peace (i.e., say: As-Salamu Alaikum to one another), feed people, strengthen the ties of kinship, and be in prayer when others are asleep, you will enter Jannah in peace. [At-Tirmidhi].

• The Prophet (PBUH) said: "When you smile to your brother's face, it is charity.“ [Tirmidhi]

• 5:2. Help one another in righteousness and piety, but do not help one another in sin and injustice

49Image, courtesy: http://www.tomclarkdds.com/dentists/muncie.php

Rights towards each other

• One should not be envious of others, nor should have

suspicions

• One should fulfill one’s covenants

• One should visit the sick and pray for them

• Abu Hurairah said: The Prophet said, “Beware of envy because envy consumes (destroys) the virtues just as the fire consumes the firewood… [Abu Dawud].

• 17:34. “And fulfill (every) covenant. Verily! The covenant, will be questioned about!”

• 5:1."O you who believe! Fulfill (your) obligations .

• Abu Musa reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "Visit the sick, feed the hungry, and (arrange for the) release of the captive [Al-Bukhari]

50Image, courtesy: http://www.nba.com/jazz/community/2009_hospital_visits.html

Right to freedom of speech

• One has the right to speak the good and the truth

• Speaking the truth in front of a tyrant ruler is the biggest

Jihad

• One has the right to speak for one’s rights

• 33:70. O you who believe! Keep your duty to Allah and fear Him, and (always) speak the truth.

• Abu Hurairah reported: Prophet said, “…; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day let him speak good or remain silent". [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

• Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is reported to have said, "The best Jihad is to speak the truth before a tyrant ruler" (Bukhari)

• 58:1. “Allah has heard and accepted the statement of the woman who pleads with you (Prophet) concerning her husband and carries her complaint to Allah...

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Right to freedom of speech

• However, cursing others, insulting and abusing them,

mocking at them,

etc. comes under hate speech and is not allowed

• We are not even allowed to mock the deities of others for

the sake of

getting along with all of the people of the world and protecting the

name of our religion

• 4:148. Allah does not like that the evil should be uttered in public except by him who has been wronged. And Allah is Ever All-Hearer, All-Knower.

• 6:108. And insult not those whom they (disbelievers) worship besides Allah, lest they insult Allah wrongfully without knowledge

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Right to contribute in policy making

• One chapter in Quran with the name “Consultation”

• Ruler should consult public

• People should also run their affairs through mutual

consultation

• Prophet (PBUH) used to consult his companions all the time

• 3:159. And by the Mercy of Allah, you (O Prophet) dealt with them gently. And had you been severe and harsh-hearted, they would have broken away from about you; so pass over (their faults), and ask (Allah's) Forgiveness for them; and consult them in the affairs. Then when you have taken a decision, put your trust in Allah, certainly, Allah loves those who put their trust (in Him).

• 42:38. And those who answer the Call of their Lord, and perform prayer, and who (conduct) their affairs by mutual consultation, and who spend of what We have bestowed on them;

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Rights of animals

• They should not be killed/hunted except for food

• They should not be made targets of shooting

• The prophet Muhammad [PBUH] said, 'Whoever kills a sparrow or anything bigger than that without just cause, Allah will hold him accountable on the Day of Judgment'. The listeners asked, 'O Messenger of Allah, what is a just cause?' He replied, 'That he killed it to eat, not simply chop of its head and then throw it away. (Nasaa'ee, Hakim).

• The prophet Muhammad [PBUH] said, 'There is no man who kills even a sparrow or anything smaller, without its deserving it, but God will question him about it'. (Nasai, Darimi).

• Hisham bin Zaid said: Anas saw some boys shooting at a tied hen. Anas said, "The Prophet has forbidden the shooting of tied or confined animals." [Bukhari]

54Image, courtesy: http://robotswillkillyou.blogspot.com/

Rights of animals

• Slaughtering should be done in the most painless way

• A study conducted by Prof. Wilhelm Schulze and Dr. Hazim

at the School of Veterinary Medicine, Hanover University

Germany, on “Attempts to Objectify Pain and Consciousness

in Conventional (captive bolt pistol stunning) and Ritual

(Islamic) Method of Slaughtering Sheep and Calves”

showed that Islamic way is painless.

• The prophet [PBUH] said, “Allah has ordained kindness (and excellence) in everything. If the killing (of animals) is to be done, do it in the best manner, and when you slaughter, do it in the best manner by first sharpening the knife, and putting the animal at ease." (Muslim)

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Rights of animals

• They should not be tortured or kept hungry and thirsty

• They should not be branded on face

• Ibn Umar said: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "A woman was punished in Hell because of a cat which she had confined until it died She did not give it to eat or to drink when it was confined, nor did she free it so that it might eat the vermin of the earth [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

• Narrated Salim: that Ibn ‘Umar disliked the branding of animals on the face. Ibn ‘Umar said, “The Prophet forbade beating (animals) on the face.” [Bukhari]

56Images, courtesy:http://www.10dailythings.com/2008/04/11/stupid-life-artist-kills-a-dog-in-the-name-of-art/

Rights of animals

• They should not be given psychological torture

• Abdul Rahman bin Abdullah bin Mas'ud narrated, “We were on a journey with the Apostle of God, and he left us for a while. During his absence, we saw a bird called hummara with its two young and took the young ones. The mother bird was circling above us in the air, beating its wings in grief, when the Prophet came back he said: "Who has hurt the feelings of this bird by taking its young? Return them to her.” [Muslim]

• Abdul Rahman bin Abdullah bin Mas'ud narrated, “A man once robbed some eggs from the nest of a bird. The Prophet(PBUH), had them restored to the nest.“ [Muslim]

57Image, courtesy: http://www.argosyfarm.com/Eggs%20&%20Poultry.htm

Rights of animals

• They should not loaded too heavily or driven harshly

• They should be well fed

• Aishah narrated: "I was riding a restive camel and turned it rather roughly. The Prophet said to me: 'It behooves you to treat the animals gently.'" [Muslim]

• Sahl related that the Messenger of Allah [PBUH], once passed by a camel that was so emaciated that its back had almost reached its stomach and he said, 'Fear Allah in (the matter of) these animals who cannot speak. Only ride them when they are in good health and only eat them when they are in good health.‘

• Prophet said: ‘Fear God with regard to animals, ride them when they are fit to be ridden, and get off their backs when they are tired; surely, there are rewards for being kind and gentle to animals, and for giving them water to drink'.

58Image, courtesy:http://forum.chatdd.com/photo-gallery-wallpapers-world/31152-khota-air.html

Rights of environment

• Allah has provided enough resources in this world for its

inhabitants

• Human beings are made vicegerents of Allah on earth so we should not waste the blessed resources we are

given

• 15:19. "And the earth We have spread out; set thereon mountains firm and immovable; and produced therein all kinds of things in due balance.“

• 31:20. See you not (O men) that Allah has subjected for you whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth, and has completed and perfected His Graces upon you, (both) apparent and hidden? Yet of mankind is he who disputes about Allah without knowledge or guidance or a Book giving light!

• 6:165. "It is He who has made you (His) vice regents, inheritors of the earth: He has raised you in ranks, some above others: that He may try you in the gifts He has given you: for your Lord is quick in punishment: yet He is indeed Oft-forgiving, Most Merciful."

59Image, courtesy: http://www.punemobile.com/wallpapers/v/Nature/

Rights of environment

• Destroying crops, trees and cattle comes under Fasaad

• Preservation of vegetation especially in areas where it is scarce

• Growing vegetation is a charitable and meritorious act

• 2:205. And when he turns away, his effort in the land is to make mischief therein and to destroy the crops and the cattle, and Allah likes not mischief.

• Prophet (PBUH) said, “He who cuts a lote-tree (without justification), God will send him to Hellfire.” (Abu Dawood, Nasai) (lote-tree is found in deserts and is scarce)

• Prophet said:“If anyone plants a tree, neither human being nor any of God’s creatures will eat from it without its being reckoned as charity from him.” (Musnad)

• Prophet (PBUH) said, “If the day of resurrection comes upon anyone of you while he has a seedling in hand, let him plant it.” (Bukhari, Musnad)

60Image, courtesy:http://weheartworld.com/green-living/10-products-that-get-a-tree-planted/

Muslims and Islam

• Muslims and Islam are not the same thing

• Unfortunately, Muslims sometimes are ignorant of the true

teachings

• Other times they follow their cultural traditions

• It is not wise to judge Islam by what ignorant Muslims do• To judge Islam one should look at the teachings of Islam as

described in Quran and as taught, explained, practiced and demonstrated by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

• Dr. Ralph Braibanti said: “At this moment in history, the dynamics and clearly defined values of Islam have the potential for resuscitating the western world’s decline to morbidity. This can be done only if the image projected by Islam on the global screen and the actions of Muslims on the world stage are compatible with Islamic principles of peace, justice, and reverence for life.”

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Questions

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Contact

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• Aurangzeb Zafar:

orangzeb@purdue.edu

• Link to download presentation:

http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~orangzeb/humanrights.htm

• Office hours: Thursdays from 6:00 to 7:00pm

www.purdue.edu/msa

msapurdue@gmail.com