By Gregory Kavalec — Published on IslamAwakened.com
If the Qur’an is the unchanging, perfect word of an all-knowing God, why does it contain content and laws that reflect the moral, scientific, and social norms of 7th-century Arabia rather than universal principles?
The answer lies in distinguishing between the Qur’an itself and later add-on material. The Qur’an presents timeless guidance that transcends cultures and centuries. It emphasizes human dignity, justice, communication, humility, knowledge, and compassion—principles that form the foundation of civil conduct in Islam.
Below is a comprehensive outline of what the Qur’an itself teaches on civil behavior.
Human Dignity and Respect
The Qur’an establishes the worth of every human being, setting the foundation for civil life:
- Honor all humanity:
“We have honored the children of Adam and carried them by land and sea, provided them with good things, and favored them greatly over many of Our creations.”
(Surah Al-Isra 17:70)
Speech and Communication
Islamic civil conduct emphasizes responsible and respectful communication.
- Speak with clarity and truth:
(Surah Al-Ahzab 33:70) - Choose the best words:
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:83) - Lower your voice and be modest:
(Surah Luqman 31:19) - Shun falsehood and lies:
(Surah Al-Hajj 22:30; Surah Al-Baqarah 2:42) - Speak from the heart:
(Surah Al-E-Imran 3:167) - Use language that connects:
(Surah An-Nisa 4:5) - Be just in speech, even with relatives:
(Surah Al-An’am 6:152)
Conduct and Behavior
The Qur’an provides guidance on humility, modesty, and self-control in daily behavior.
- Avoid arrogance:
(Surah Luqman 31:18) - Walk with moderation:
(Surah Al-Isra 17:37) - Walk humbly:
(Surah Al-Furqan 25:63) - Lower the gaze and guard modesty:
(Surah An-Nur 24:30; Surah Al-An’am 6:151)
Knowledge and Verification
Knowledge is central to Islam, but so is verifying truth and avoiding speculation.
- Verify information before acting:
(Surah Al-Hujurat 49:6) - Do not follow blindly without knowledge:
(Surah Al-Isra 17:36) - Seek continual increase in knowledge:
(Surah Ta-Ha 20:114) - Avoid unfounded suspicion:
(Surah An-Nur 24:12)
Community Relations
Civil conduct in Islam extends to maintaining harmony within society.
- Believers are brothers, reconcile disputes:
(Surah Al-Hujurat 49:10) - Avoid mockery, insults, and offensive nicknames:
(Surah Al-Hujurat 49:11) - Do not spy, backbite, or indulge in suspicion:
(Surah Al-Hujurat 49:12) - Exchange greetings of peace warmly:
(Surah An-Nisa 4:86) - Seek permission before entering homes:
(Surah An-Nur 24:27)
Care for Others
Social justice and compassion are emphasized repeatedly.
- Be kind to parents, orphans, neighbors, and travelers:
(Surah An-Nisa 4:36) - Give charity without reproach or harm:
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:262) - Give only for Allah’s sake, without expectation of thanks:
(Surah Al-Insan 76:9) - Cooperate in righteousness, not sin:
(Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:2)
Self-Improvement and Integrity
The Qur’an calls believers to hold themselves accountable before correcting others.
- Practice what you preach:
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:44) - Protect your families spiritually:
(Surah At-Tahrim 66:6) - Control anger and forgive others:
(Surah Al-E-Imran 3:134) - Call others to truth with wisdom and kindness:
(Surah An-Nahl 16:125)
Practical Life Guidelines
Civil conduct in Islam extends to daily life and practical etiquette.
- Avoid envy of others’ blessings:
(Surah An-Nisa 4:32) - Make space for others in gatherings:
(Surah Al-Mujadilah 58:11) - Observe etiquette when eating or visiting homes:
(Surah Al-Ahzab 33:53) - Eat and drink in moderation:
(Surah Al-A’raf 7:31) - Avoid wasteful spending:
(Surah Al-Isra 17:26–27) - Fulfill promises and covenants:
(Surah Al-Isra 17:34) - Maintain cleanliness and purity:
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:222) - Seek lawful provision, avoid unjust wealth:
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:188)
Conclusion: A Timeless Framework for Civil Conduct
The Qur’an presents a timeless framework for civil conduct rooted in respect, dignity, knowledge, humility, and compassion. These principles are not bound by the cultural context of 7th-century Arabia but remain universally applicable across ages and societies.
Civil conduct in Islam, as outlined in the Qur’an, provides a moral compass for individuals and communities, guiding them toward justice, harmony, and mutual respect. For Muslims and non-Muslims alike, this guidance offers a path to build societies grounded in ethics and empathy.