12.3 Interpersonal Islamic Ethics Under Sharia (How to Treat Others)
A central part of Sharia (Islamic law) deals with how individuals interact with others in everyday situations. This area of Sharia is referred to as muʿāmalāt, and it is the set of Islamic principles that govern social, family, and economic relationships.
In classical Islamic systems, there are legal distinctions between Muslims and non-Muslims, especially in political contexts where religion and governance are closely connected. These distinctions will be examined more closely in Module 16, where we discuss minorities under Islamic political rule.
The following laws are binding on Muslims (as part of religious obligation) in how they treat other Muslims. They also apply to Muslims’ interactions with non-Muslims in most areas.
Honesty and Trust in Dealings
Islamic teachings emphasize honesty, though some classical interpretations allow exceptions in specific situations. These exceptions are debated and interpreted differently across scholars and communities. These exceptions are typically understood as limited cases aimed at preventing harm, rather than general permission for dishonesty.
Other examples of Sharia:
- Cheating in business is forbidden.
- False advertising or misrepresentation is forbidden.
- Agreements and contracts are expected to be honored.
- Selling a defective product without disclosure is forbidden.
Trustworthiness is considered an important moral trait in Islam. It’s important to note here that the Prophet Muhammad was known in his community as “the trustworthy one.”
Contracts and Accountability
Sharia places importance on fulfilling agreements.
- Contracts are expected to be clear and mutually agreed upon.
- Breaking agreements without justification is condemned.
- Financial obligations are taken seriously. In Sharia, failing to pay a debt when one is able is considered a form of injustice. The soul of a deceased person is believed to be “held back” by unpaid debts.
In many classical Islamic legal discussions, contracts are considered to form the foundation of a stable and just society.
Family Responsibilities
Family relationships are a major focus of interpersonal ethics in Islam.
- Respect and care for parents are strongly emphasized. In the Qur’an, kindness to parents is often ranked immediately after the worship of God.
- Spouses have defined rights and responsibilities toward one another. These roles are defined differently for men and women. For example, financial responsibility is on the husband, while the wife is responsible for protecting her husband’s wealth, property, and secrets. She is considered the “guardian” of his home in his absence.
- Parents are responsible for the care and upbringing of children.
Maintaining family ties is considered an important moral duty.
Charity and Social Responsibility
Islamic teaching includes both required and voluntary forms of charity:
- Zakat (obligatory charity) is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
- Sadaqah (voluntary charity) is strongly encouraged.
Justice and Fair Treatment
- Individuals are expected to act fairly, even when it is inconvenient.
- Favoritism, corruption, and unjust treatment are condemned.
- Accusing someone of adultery without sufficient proof is a punishable offense.
Limits on Harm
- Theft, fraud, and exploitation are forbidden.
- Causing harm to others without justification is condemned.
- Protection of life and property is considered essential.
In section 12.4, we will look at specific examples of Sharia violations and their prescribed punishments.