Guiding Light Selections from the Holy Qur’an

Abstract

Translation
In the name of Allah, the most benevolent, ever merciful.
God commands justice, the doing
Of good, and liberality to kith
And kin, and He forbids
All shameful deeds, and injustice
And rebellion: He instructs you,
That ye may receive admonition.
Surah 16:90
If we look at the above verses we can see that the goal and essence of man’s
life on earth is to live and follow the right course of life. The essence of this
life, on the positive side, is summarized in the first part of Surah 16:90 of the
Qur’an. The ultimate is for man to attain a life of justice ('adl), sincerity, concern,
compassion, responsibility, and perfection (Ihsan) . In addition, one
should exhibit the attributes of generosity and self-sacrifice in rendering help
to individuals and groups n every way and with regard to priorities (‘ita thawi
al qurba). On the negative and protective side, man should condemn and
refrain from committing or indulging in sinful, flagrant, tasteless, harmful
deeds and actions (al Fahsha’ wa al-Munkar). Likewise he should avoid acts
of injustice, usurpation, suppression or oppression against any person or
rights of any human being (baghy).
Recite what is sent
Of the Book by inspiration
To thee, and establish
Regular Prayer: for Prayer
Restrains from shameful
And unjust deeds;
And remembrance of God
Is the greatest (thing in life)
Without doubt. And God knows
The (deeds) that ye do.
Surah 29:45 ...