Abstain From Zulm

Main Topic

An explanation of the severity of zulm (oppression and injustice), its consequences in the Hereafter, and the necessity of refining one's character (akhlaq) and protecting the rights of others, especially when preparing for Ramadan.

Key Lessons

• Zulm in Islam encompasses usurping the rights of others, misusing authority over dependents or workers, and oppressing oneself through sin.
• Oppression leads to deep darkness (dhulumat) and severe retribution on the Day of Qiyamah.
• On the Day of Judgment, compensation for injustice will be taken from the oppressor's good deeds (a'mal). If their good deeds are depleted, they will carry the sins of the oppressed.
• Even among animals, Allah Ta'ala will ensure complete justice is fulfilled on Qiyamah before turning them to dust, demonstrating the absolute nature of Divine justice.
• Fasting in Ramadan is designed to cultivate taqwa (Allah-consciousness) and self-control. It must not be ruined by bad tempers, verbal abuse, or mistreating subordinates.
• Muslims must preserve their Islamic identity and avoid crossing theological boundaries or adopting un-Islamic symbols under the guise of interfaith solidarity.

Quranic/Hadith References

• Quranic Verses cited regarding the severe punishment and lack of intercessors for oppressors on Qiyamah.
• Surah Hud (11:102): Reference to Allah's painful and severe seizure of towns while they are committing oppression.
• Hadith: "Beware of oppression, for oppression will be darknesses on the Day of Resurrection."
• Hadith: "Allah gives respite to the oppressor, but when He seizes him, He does not let him go."
• Hadith: "Beware of the supplication of the oppressed (da'wat al-mazlum), for there is no barrier between it and Allah."
• Hadith: Mention of fasting individuals who gain nothing from their fast except hunger due to persistent sins.

Practical Advice

• Evalue personal conduct with spouses, children, and employees to ensure their financial, physical, and emotional rights are fully given.
• Lighten the workload for workers and employees during the month of Ramadan.
• Guard the tongue against swearing, snapping, or abusing others while fasting.
• Settle debts, seek forgiveness, and rectify wrongs committed against fellow human beings before death.