Concept of Bribe in Islam:
Bribe in Islam:
In Islam, bribery is strictly
prohibited, as it goes against the principles of justice, fairness, and
integrity that are central to Islamic teachings. The concept of bribery is
considered a form of corruption and exploitation, where money or gifts are offered
to influence the actions or decisions of individuals, especially those in
positions of power.
The Quran and Hadiths (sayings of
the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) clearly condemn bribery. For example,
the Quran states:
“And do not consume one another’s
wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might
aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you
know [it is unlawful].” (Surah
Al-Baqarah, 2:188)
This verse highlights that bribery
is a means of unfairly gaining wealth and is linked to both injustice and sin.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also
said in a well-known Hadith:
“The curse of Allah is upon the one
who gives a bribe and the one who takes it.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah)
Bribery distorts the concept of
justice, leads to inequality, and creates an unfair system, particularly in
matters like governance, legal proceedings, and trade. In an Islamic society,
everyone is expected to be honest, uphold their duties fairly, and avoid any
form of corruption.
Muslims are encouraged to practice
transparency and righteousness in all dealings and to avoid engaging in any
behavior that undermines trust and justice. The avoidance of bribery is seen as
a way to contribute to the betterment of society and to maintain moral and
ethical standards.
Bribery in Islam is viewed as a
grave sin that harms both individuals and society, and Muslims are urged to
steer clear of it in every form.
The concept of bribery in Islam goes
beyond the mere exchange of money or gifts; it encompasses any act of giving or
receiving something with the intention of influencing or altering decisions in
an unfair or unjust manner. Bribery undermines the core principles of honesty,
justice, and fairness that Islam emphasizes in all aspects of life, including
governance, business, and personal interactions.
Bribery
in Islamic Teachings
In Islam, the fundamental concepts
of justice (adl)
and fairness are key to the functioning of society. Both the Quran and Hadith
provide explicit guidelines regarding bribery:
The
Quran:
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:188): As mentioned earlier, the Quran condemns the act of
bribery, particularly when it is used to exploit or oppress others. It
warns against using wealth to manipulate the outcomes of legal or
governmental decisions:
“And do
not consume one another’s wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers
in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the
people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].”
This verse
underscores that bribery leads to the unlawful consumption of someone else's
wealth, and the use of bribery to gain an unjust advantage is forbidden.
- Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:2): This verse stresses cooperation in righteousness and
fear of Allah, urging believers to avoid helping one another in sin and
transgression, which can apply to bribery:
"And
cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and
aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in punishment."
The
Hadith:
- The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) clearly condemned bribery
in various sayings. He is reported to have said:
“Allah has
cursed the one who gives a bribe and the one who takes a bribe.” (Sunan Ibn
Majah)
This
Hadith emphasizes that both parties involved in the transaction—whether the
giver or the recipient of the bribe—are equally culpable in the eyes of Allah.
The curse mentioned in this Hadith signifies the severity of the sin,
highlighting the serious consequences in both this life and the Hereafter.
- In another Hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is
reported to have said:
“A bribe
is a form of injustice.” (Sahih Muslim)
This
Hadith reinforces the notion that bribery violates the principle of justice (adl), which is central to Islamic teachings.
Concept of bribery:
Example of a bribe:
Causes of bribery:
- Higher levels of market and political monopolization.
- Low levels of democracy, weak civil participation and low political transparency.
- Higher levels of bureaucracy and inefficient administrative structures.
- Low press freedom.
- Low economic freedom.
- Large ethnic divisions and high levels of in-group favoritism.
Guilty of bribery:
Why
Bribery is Forbidden:
- Corruption of Justice: Bribery distorts justice by providing unfair
advantages to those who are willing to pay, undermining the legal and
ethical systems that should govern society. It creates an unjust society
where the wealthy or influential can bypass legal processes and harm the
disadvantaged.
- Exploitation and Oppression: When bribery is allowed, it results in the
exploitation of the weak, poor, and vulnerable. Those who lack the means
to offer bribes are at a disadvantage, leading to an uneven playing field
in all aspects of life, from legal matters to business transactions.
- Dishonesty and Lack of Trust: Bribery breeds dishonesty, as it encourages
individuals to deceive or manipulate others for personal gain. It erodes
trust within society and leads to a breakdown in the integrity of both
individuals and institutions.
- Harm to Society:
Bribery fosters a culture of corruption and dishonesty, which harms the
collective well-being of society. It creates divisions between the rich
and poor, and it can perpetuate cycles of injustice and inequality.
- Spiritual Consequences: In addition to the social harm caused by bribery,
Islam teaches that it has severe spiritual consequences. Those who engage
in bribery are committing a sin that can affect their relationship with
Allah, and the curse mentioned in the Hadith indicates that those involved
may face punishment in the Hereafter.
The
Broader Concept of Corruption:
Islam views bribery as part of a
larger issue of corruption (fisq), which encompasses any act that violates moral, ethical,
or legal standards. The prohibition of bribery extends to various forms of
corruption, including fraud, theft, embezzlement, and any other activity that
unjustly benefits one party at the expense of another.
The Islamic perspective on
corruption emphasizes that it is a violation of the rights of others, and those
who engage in such actions must seek repentance. Islam also encourages
transparency and accountability in all affairs, especially in governance and
business dealings. Leaders and officials are specifically reminded to be fair
and just in their decision-making, as they hold significant responsibilities
toward the people.
The
Role of Governance:
Islamic governance systems are built
on the foundation of justice and equity. Leaders, rulers, and judges are expected
to be impartial and to act in the best interest of the people. Bribery
undermines these objectives, leading to biased decisions that may not reflect
what is just or fair for the general public.
To prevent bribery, Islamic
teachings stress the importance of:
- Accountability:
Leaders and officials must be held accountable for their actions and
decisions.
- Transparency:
All processes, especially in government and business, should be
transparent and open to scrutiny.
- Trustworthiness:
Individuals, especially those in positions of power, should act with
integrity and fulfill their duties honestly.
Bribery is considered a severe
offense in Islam because it compromises the principles of justice, fairness,
and integrity that are central to the faith. Both giving and receiving bribes
are forbidden, as they contribute to corruption and harm society as a whole.
Islam calls on its followers to avoid all forms of dishonesty and exploitation
and to adhere to the values of righteousness and fairness in all their dealings.
By doing so, Muslims contribute to a more just and ethical society, aligning
their actions with the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet
Muhammad (PBUH).
Principle
about concept of bribery:
The concept of
bribery in Islam is governed by several core principles rooted in the teachings
of the Quran and Hadith. These principles focus on justice, integrity,
fairness, and the welfare of society. Below are the key principles that define
the Islamic perspective on bribery:
1.
Prohibition of Unjust Gain:
Islam strongly prohibits any form of
unjust gain or exploitation of others through bribery. The act of giving or
accepting a bribe is seen as a violation of the principle of fairness and
justice. Islam calls for wealth to be acquired in a lawful, honest, and
transparent manner, and bribery is viewed as a corrupt means of obtaining
benefits that are not deserved.
- Quranic Reference:
“And do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery]
to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of
the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful].” (Surah
Al-Baqarah, 2:188)
2.
Violation of Justice:
Justice (adl) is a fundamental value
in Islam. Bribery undermines the principle of justice by allowing decisions to
be made based on personal interests rather than fairness or the truth. Islam
mandates that decisions, especially legal and administrative ones, must be
based on objective criteria and not on any form of corruption.
- Hadith:
"The curse of Allah is upon the one who gives a bribe and the one who
takes a bribe." (Sunan Ibn Majah)
3.
Accountability and Transparency:
Bribery thrives in environments
where there is a lack of accountability and transparency. Islam emphasizes that
individuals, especially those in positions of power or authority, must be
accountable for their actions. They should ensure that their dealings are
transparent and open to scrutiny, which helps prevent corruption.
- Quranic Reference:
“And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and
aggression.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:2)
4.
Equity and Fairness for All:
Islam promotes an equitable society
where every individual, regardless of their wealth, status, or background, is
treated with fairness. Bribery creates inequality by favoring the wealthy or
powerful, which disrupts societal harmony and perpetuates injustice. In Islam,
no one should be given an advantage over others through dishonest means.
- Hadith:
"A bribe is a form of injustice." (Sahih Muslim)
5.
Spiritual Consequences:
In Islam, actions have both social
and spiritual consequences. Bribery is not only an offense against society but
also a sin against Allah. Both the giver and the recipient of a bribe are
accountable to Allah for their actions, and they are warned of divine
punishment in this world and the Hereafter.
- Hadith:
"The curse of Allah is upon the one who gives a bribe and the one who
takes a bribe." (Sunan Ibn Majah)
6.
The Role of Ethical Conduct in Society:
Islam teaches that the foundation of
a just and harmonious society is built on ethical conduct, trustworthiness, and
mutual respect. Bribery, by its nature, leads to dishonesty, exploitation, and
the breakdown of trust. Muslims are expected to avoid any behavior that
corrupts the ethical fabric of society.
7.
Upholding the Rights of Others:
Bribery is seen as an act of
injustice because it violates the rights of others, particularly the
disadvantaged. By giving or receiving a bribe, a person is denying others their
rightful due, often resulting in harm to vulnerable individuals. Islam places a
strong emphasis on the protection of the rights of others and calls for the
safeguarding of justice in all dealings.
8.
Repentance and Reform:
For those who engage in bribery,
Islam offers the opportunity for repentance and reform. While the act of
bribery is considered a serious sin, Islam teaches that those who sincerely
repent and seek forgiveness from Allah will be pardoned. This principle
emphasizes the importance of moral accountability and the possibility of redemption.
9.
Promotion of Public Welfare:
Islamic teachings emphasize that the
well-being of society should be prioritized. Bribery disrupts this goal by
creating systems that benefit a few at the expense of the many. Islam advocates
for a just system where public officials and citizens alike are motivated by
the common good, rather than personal or financial gain.
10.
Prevention of Corruption:
Islamic teachings advocate for the
prevention of all forms of corruption. Bribery is seen as a form of corruption that
can damage not only individuals but the entire societal structure. Islam
encourages measures to prevent such corrupt practices, urging leaders and
citizens to maintain high ethical standards.
The principles regarding bribery in
Islam are grounded in the broader Islamic framework of justice, fairness, and
the common good. Bribery is viewed as an unethical practice that undermines
both societal harmony and individual morality. Islam calls for integrity in all
dealings, transparency in governance, and accountability in business, while
recognizing that a just society can only thrive when individuals uphold the
values of honesty and fairness.
Is it a sin to take bribes:
Simple definition of bribes:
Effect of bribery:
Aspects about concept of Bribery:
The concept of bribery in Islam is
multifaceted and involves various aspects that reflect the moral, ethical,
legal, and social dimensions of this practice. Islam strongly condemns bribery
as it goes against the core values of justice, integrity, and fairness that
form the foundation of Islamic teachings. Below are the key aspects of the
concept of bribery in Islam:
1.
Moral and Ethical Aspect
In Islam, bribery is fundamentally
immoral and unethical. It is seen as a breach of trust, dishonesty, and a
failure to act in accordance with Allah’s commands. Islam stresses that
individuals must conduct themselves with sincerity, truthfulness, and integrity
in all matters. The act of offering or accepting a bribe violates these
principles because it is an attempt to manipulate or deceive others for
personal gain, which goes against the moral foundation of Islam.
- Hadith:
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “The curse of Allah is upon the one
who gives a bribe and the one who takes a bribe.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)
This highlights the ethical severity
of bribery in Islam, where both the giver and receiver of a bribe are equally
held accountable.
2.
Legal Aspect
From an Islamic legal perspective,
bribery is considered a form of corruption (fisq) that undermines the legal and judicial system. The concept
of justice (adl) is central to Islamic law (Sharia), and bribery distorts
justice by making legal and judicial decisions contingent upon personal or
financial gain rather than truth and fairness. This is especially harmful in
the case of judges, rulers, and other individuals in positions of authority,
who are responsible for ensuring justice is served.
- Quran:
Allah commands fairness and justice in the administration of laws. "O
you who have believed, do not betray Allah and the Messenger or betray
your trust while you know [the consequence]." (Surah Al-Anfal,
8:27)
Bribery creates an environment where
individuals can manipulate or circumvent legal processes, leading to unjust
outcomes.
3.
Social Aspect
Bribery has a profound negative
impact on society, fostering inequality, injustice, and division. It widens the
gap between the rich and the poor, as those with wealth can more easily access
unfair advantages. For the disadvantaged and marginalized groups in society,
bribery creates a system where their rights can be ignored or violated, as they
lack the resources to offer bribes.
Islam encourages the establishment
of a just society where all individuals are treated equally, regardless of
their financial status, race, or background. The practice of bribery goes
against this ideal by privileging certain individuals over others and creating
an unfair and corrupt system.
- Hadith:
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Beware! There is no one more unjust
than the one who takes the wealth of a Muslim unjustly.” (Sahih
Muslim)
4.
Spiritual and Religious Aspect
Bribery, in Islam, is seen as a
serious sin that harms not only societal structures but also the individual’s
relationship with Allah. In addition to the social and legal consequences,
bribery has spiritual repercussions. Engaging in bribery is viewed as a
violation of the trust Allah has placed in individuals to act justly and
fairly. It undermines the ethical and moral values that Muslims are expected to
uphold.
Islam teaches that actions are
judged not only by their external results but also by the intentions behind
them. Offering or accepting a bribe is considered an act of bad faith, and it
reflects a lack of fear of Allah's judgment.
- Quran:
“And do not exchange My signs for a small price, and fear Me.” (Surah
Al-Baqarah, 2:41)
5.
Economic Aspect
Bribery distorts economic systems by
enabling unfair practices such as embezzlement, fraud, and unjust business
dealings. In an Islamic economic framework, trade and business should be
conducted with honesty, transparency, and respect for others' rights. Bribery
disrupts this principle, allowing individuals to gain wealth and benefits
through dishonest means, often to the detriment of others.
- Hadith:
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "He who cheats is not one of
us." (Sahih Muslim)
This Hadith highlights that
corruption, including bribery, is fundamentally incompatible with the
principles of Islamic economics, which emphasize justice, transparency, and
ethical behavior.
6.
Accountability and Repentance
Islam provides a path for
individuals who have engaged in bribery to repent and seek forgiveness from
Allah. The concept of repentance (tawbah) is central to Islam, and Muslims are
encouraged to sincerely repent for their sins and strive to correct their
wrongdoings. This process involves acknowledging the wrong, seeking forgiveness
from Allah, and making amends where possible.
Repentance is an important aspect
because it offers the opportunity for redemption, both spiritually and
socially. However, the opportunity for repentance is not a justification for
engaging in bribery, as Islam calls on Muslims to avoid such acts in the first
place.
- Hadith:
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Whoever repents before his death,
Allah will accept his repentance.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)
7.
Prevention of Corruption and Promotion of Good Governance
Islam places great importance on the
prevention of corruption at all levels of society. Bribery is seen as a major
form of corruption that can undermine good governance. Islamic teachings
emphasize the importance of ensuring that those in positions of power, such as
leaders, judges, and administrators, act with integrity and justice. Leaders
are required to make decisions based on the welfare of their people and not
personal interests.
- Quran:
“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when
you judge between people to judge with justice.” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:58)
In this way, Islam encourages
systems of accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership, all of which
work to prevent the occurrence of bribery and corruption.
8.
Role of the Community in Combating Bribery
Islam places responsibility on the
entire community to prevent and combat bribery. Muslims are encouraged to be
vigilant and to call out corruption whenever they see it. The collective
responsibility for maintaining justice and upholding Islamic values means that
society, as a whole, should work to create an environment where bribery is
discouraged, and ethical behavior is promoted.
- Hadith:
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Whoever among you sees a wrong, let
him change it with his hand; if he is not able to do so, then with his
tongue; and if he is not able to do so, then with his heart, and that is
the weakest of faith.” (Sahih Muslim)
This Hadith demonstrates that every
member of society has a role in combating evil, including bribery, and
maintaining the ethical standards set by Islam.
Effects of Bribery:
Types of bribery:
- Bribery by/of a Public official.
- Bribery by/ of a witness..
- Bribery of a foreign official.
- Bank Bribery
- Bribery in Sporting contests.
Bribery in Islam is a
multi-dimensional concept that impacts individuals, society, and the faith
itself. It is viewed as a sin, a violation of justice, and a corrupting force
that undermines both the ethical and legal foundations of society. The Islamic
teachings are clear: bribery is forbidden, and Muslims are encouraged to
promote honesty, fairness, transparency, and justice in all dealings. The
ultimate goal is to ensure that the welfare of society is protected and that
every individual, regardless of wealth or status, is treated fairly and justly.
Types of Bribe:
Significant about Concept of Bribery
in Islam:
The concept of bribery in Islam
holds significant importance due to its profound impact on individuals,
society, and the principles of justice and morality that Islam upholds. The
prohibition of bribery is not just about legal or social norms but is deeply
rooted in Islamic ethical teachings, emphasizing fairness, integrity, and the
well-being of the community. Here are the key significant aspects of the
concept of bribery in Islam:
1.
Upholding Justice and Fairness
Bribery directly contradicts the
Islamic principle of justice (adl), which is central to both personal conduct
and societal governance. Islam mandates that justice be served fairly to all,
regardless of status or wealth. When bribery is involved, decisions are
influenced by personal interests rather than truth and fairness. This creates
an unjust system where individuals with power or money gain advantages they do
not deserve, which undermines the very fabric of justice.
- Quranic Principle:
Allah commands that rulers, judges, and individuals in positions of power
must act with fairness and avoid corruption. For instance, “And if you
judge, judge between them with justice.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:42)
2.
Preserving the Trust (Amanah)
In Islam, trust (amanah) is a
fundamental value that encompasses all aspects of life, including the trust
placed in individuals to carry out their responsibilities honestly. Bribery is
a violation of this trust, as it involves betraying the responsibility to act
with integrity for personal gain. Whether in leadership, business, or legal
matters, the person who takes or offers a bribe is violating their duty to act
justly on behalf of others.
- Hadith:
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Each of you is a shepherd, and each
of you is responsible for his flock.” (Sahih Muslim)
Bribery corrupts the fulfillment of
this responsibility by enabling one party to deceive and manipulate the system,
undermining the trust people have in leadership and governance.
3.
Spiritual and Ethical Significance
Bribery is not only a legal or
social issue in Islam but also a deeply spiritual one. Engaging in bribery is
seen as a form of moral corruption, as it goes against the virtues of honesty,
transparency, and integrity that Islam promotes. It is a sin that has spiritual
consequences, as it weakens a person's relationship with Allah. Both the giver
and the receiver of a bribe are warned of the severe consequences in the
Hereafter.
- Hadith:
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “The curse of Allah is upon the one
who gives a bribe and the one who takes a bribe.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)
This warning illustrates the
severity of bribery as a sin, highlighting the spiritual harm it causes by
eroding moral and ethical values.
4.
Social Harmony and Equality
Bribery fosters inequality and
disrupts social harmony. It creates a system where the wealthy or influential
can manipulate circumstances for their advantage, perpetuating inequality and
marginalizing the poor and disadvantaged. Islam advocates for an equitable
society where every individual is treated with dignity and fairness, and no one
is given preferential treatment due to their wealth or social status.
By condemning bribery, Islam seeks
to protect the rights of all individuals and promote a just society where
decisions are made based on merit and righteousness, not on who can afford to
pay or manipulate the system.
5.
Economic Impact and Corruption
Bribery leads to economic
inefficiency and corruption by distorting the normal flow of business and
governance. It encourages dishonesty and fraud, and economic resources are
often misallocated to those who can offer bribes rather than those who truly
deserve them. Islam encourages an economic system that operates on honesty,
transparency, and fairness.
Bribery, in this sense, damages the
economy by fostering a culture of corruption, which leads to wasted resources,
unfair practices, and a lack of trust in economic institutions.
6.
Promotion of Ethical Leadership
Islamic teachings place a
significant emphasis on ethical leadership. Leaders are seen as stewards of
their communities, entrusted with the responsibility to serve with justice and
integrity. Bribery in leadership positions destroys the moral authority of the
leader and creates a culture of self-interest and exploitation. Islamic
governance systems are intended to operate on the principles of honesty,
accountability, and service to the people, not on the pursuit of personal gain.
- Quranic Principle:
"O you who have believed, do not betray Allah and the Messenger or
betray your trust while you know [the consequence]." (Surah Al-Anfal,
8:27)
This verse stresses the
responsibility of leaders to act justly and fulfill their duties without
engaging in corrupt practices like bribery.
7.
The Role of the Individual in Combating Bribery
In Islam, every individual has a
role to play in preventing and combating bribery. This involves not only
refraining from engaging in bribery but also speaking out against it when it
occurs. The responsibility is collective, as the integrity of society relies on
the ethical conduct of all its members. The teachings of Islam encourage people
to act with moral courage and actively work to eliminate corruption in all its
forms.
- Hadith:
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Whosoever sees an injustice, let him
change it with his hand, and if he cannot, then with his tongue, and if he
cannot, then with his heart, and that is the weakest of faith.” (Sahih
Muslim)
This Hadith reinforces the idea that
fighting corruption, including bribery, is an essential part of a Muslim’s
duty.
8.
Accountability and Repentance
Islam encourages accountability,
both to society and to Allah. Those who engage in bribery are held accountable
for their actions and must seek repentance. Repentance (tawbah) in Islam
involves acknowledging the wrongdoing, asking for Allah's forgiveness, and
making a sincere commitment not to repeat the sin. This process of spiritual
accountability is crucial for personal growth and rectification of moral
errors.
- Quranic Principle:
“Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those
who purify themselves.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:222)
This highlights the significance of
repentance for those who have engaged in bribery, offering them the opportunity
to cleanse themselves spiritually and return to a path of righteousness.
The concept of bribery in Islam is
significant not just as a legal or ethical issue but as a fundamental matter
that affects the social, economic, spiritual, and moral fabric of society.
Islam places great emphasis on justice, integrity, and fairness, and bribery is
viewed as a direct violation of these values. The teachings of Islam call for
the eradication of bribery and corruption, urging individuals and society to
uphold the principles of honesty, transparency, and accountability in all
dealings. Through these principles, Islam seeks to create a just, ethical, and
prosperous society.
Verses about Bribery in Islam:
Here are some key verses from the
Quran about the concept of bribery, presented both in English and Urdu:
1.
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:188)
English Translation: "And do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly
or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to]
consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is
unlawful]."
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:188)
Urdu Translation: "اور آپس میں ایک دوسرے کا مال ناحق طریقے سے نہ کھاؤ
اور نہ حکام کے پاس رشوت دے کر لوگوں کا مال کھانے کی کوشش کرو، جبکہ تم جانتے ہو
کہ یہ گناہ ہے۔"
(سورة البقرة، 2:188)
2.
Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:42)
English Translation: "They are avid listeners to falsehood, devourers of
what is unlawful. And if they come to you for judgment, either judge between
them or turn away from them. And if you turn away from them, they will never
harm you, but if you judge, judge between them with justice. Indeed, Allah
loves those who act justly."
(Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:42)
Urdu Translation: "یہ جھوٹ کے سننے والے اور حرام کو کھانے والے ہیں۔
اور اگر وہ تمہارے پاس فیصلہ کرنے کے لیے آئیں تو یا تو ان کے درمیان فیصلہ کرو یا
ان سے کنارہ کشی کر لو۔ اور اگر تم ان سے کنارہ کشی کرو تو وہ تمہیں کچھ نہیں
نقصان پہنچا سکیں گے، لیکن اگر تم فیصلہ کرو تو ان کے درمیان انصاف کے ساتھ فیصلہ
کرو۔ بے شک اللہ انصاف کرنے والوں کو پسند کرتا ہے۔"
(سورة المائدة، 5:42)
3.
Surah An-Nisa (4:58)
English Translation: "Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to
whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice.
Excellent is that which Allah instructs you. Indeed, Allah is ever Hearing and
Seeing." (Surah An-Nisa, 4:58)
Urdu Translation: "یقیناً اللہ تمہیں حکم دیتا ہے کہ امانتیں ان کے اہل
کے سپرد کرو اور جب لوگوں کے درمیان فیصلہ کرو تو انصاف کے ساتھ فیصلہ کرو۔ جو
اللہ تمہیں حکم دیتا ہے، وہ بہت اچھا ہے۔ بے شک اللہ سننے والا، دیکھنے والا
ہے۔"
(سورة النساء، 4:58)
4.
Surah Al-A'raf (7:33)
English Translation: "Say, 'My Lord has only prohibited
immoralities—what is apparent of them and what is concealed—and sin, and
oppression without right, and that you associate with Allah that for which He
has not sent down authority, and that you say about Allah that which you do not
know.'" (Surah Al-A'raf, 7:33)
Urdu Translation: "کہہ دو، 'میرے رب نے صرف بدکاریوں کو حرام کیا ہے،
جو ظاہری ہوں یا باطنی، اور گناہ اور حق کے بغیر ظلم، اور اللہ کے ساتھ ایسی باتوں
کو شریک کرنا جن کے لیے اُس نے کوئی دلیل نازل نہیں کی، اور تم اللہ کے بارے میں
ایسی بات کہنا جو تم نہیں جانتے۔'"
(سورة الأعراف، 7:33)
5.
Surah Al-Imran (3:161)
English Translation: "It is not for a prophet to act dishonestly. And
whoever does so will bring what he has done with him on the Day of Judgment,
and he will be rewarded for it with a humiliating punishment." (Surah
Al-Imran, 3:161)
Urdu Translation: "کسی نبی کے لیے یہ مناسب نہیں کہ وہ خیانت کرے۔ اور
جو ایسا کرے گا، وہ جو کچھ بھی اس نے کیا ہے، قیامت کے دن لے کر آئے گا، اور اسے
اس کا ذلت آمیز عذاب ملے گا۔"
(سورة آل عمران، 3:161)
These verses, both in English and
Urdu, highlight the prohibition of bribery, the need for justice in dealing
with others, and the importance of maintaining trust and integrity in society.
Islam firmly condemns bribery as an unjust and corrupt practice, and these
teachings are meant to ensure fairness and the well-being of all people.
Disadvantages about Bribery in
Islam:
Bribery in Islam is viewed as a
severe moral and social wrongdoing. The practice has multiple disadvantages,
both on an individual and societal level. Islam emphasizes fairness, justice,
and the welfare of the community, and bribery undermines these core principles.
Here are the key disadvantages of bribery in Islam:
1.
Violation of Justice (Adl)
Bribery distorts the fundamental
concept of justice, which is central to Islamic teachings. In Islam, decisions
must be made fairly and without bias. Bribery compromises this by allowing the
wealthy or powerful to gain unjust advantages over others. It leads to
decisions being made based on personal gain rather than what is right or fair.
- Disadvantage:
It undermines the principle of fairness and justice, making it difficult
for individuals to receive their rightful due based on merit or need.
2.
Corruption of Morality and Ethics
Islam promotes a high standard of
morality and ethical behavior. Bribery is viewed as a corrupt practice that
undermines these values. The giver and the receiver of a bribe engage in
dishonesty, deceit, and exploitation for personal gain, which goes against the
Islamic teachings of truthfulness, integrity, and sincerity.
- Disadvantage:
Bribery fosters a culture of dishonesty and deceit, eroding the ethical
standards that Islam encourages. It weakens the moral fabric of society.
3.
Economic Inequality and Unfair Advantage
Bribery exacerbates economic
inequality by giving preferential treatment to those who can afford to pay
bribes. This creates a system where the rich can manipulate outcomes, while the
poor and disadvantaged are further marginalized. In Islam, everyone should have
equal access to opportunities, regardless of their financial status.
- Disadvantage:
It widens the gap between the rich and the poor, leading to further
economic disparity and injustice in the distribution of wealth and
resources.
4.
Damage to Social Trust and Cohesion
When bribery is prevalent in
society, it erodes the trust that people have in institutions, leaders, and the
legal system. This leads to a lack of faith in public authorities and social
systems, resulting in a breakdown of social cohesion. Islam promotes trust,
unity, and the collective well-being of society, all of which are compromised
by bribery.
- Disadvantage:
Bribery damages social trust, which is essential for maintaining peace,
harmony, and cooperation in society.
5.
Weakening of Leadership and Governance
Islam places a strong emphasis on
ethical leadership. Leaders are expected to serve the public with justice,
integrity, and selflessness. Bribery in leadership positions leads to
corruption and the misuse of power. It allows leaders to act in their own
self-interest rather than in the interest of the people they serve, which can
damage the effectiveness of governance.
- Disadvantage:
It weakens the quality of leadership and governance, making leaders more
focused on personal gain than on the well-being of their communities.
6.
Spiritual Consequences
Bribery is not just a social or
legal issue in Islam; it also has severe spiritual consequences. It is seen as
a form of oppression (zulm)
and dishonesty that puts the individual’s faith in jeopardy. Engaging in
bribery harms one's relationship with Allah and carries the risk of punishment
in the Hereafter.
- Disadvantage:
The individual who engages in bribery faces the risk of spiritual loss, as
the practice is condemned by Allah and may lead to divine punishment.
7.
Prevention of Economic Development
Bribery hinders the development of a
fair and transparent economy. When businesses and government officials engage
in bribery, it creates an environment where projects are awarded based on
corruption rather than merit, leading to inefficiency, substandard work, and
wasted resources. In Islam, honesty and fairness in business and trade are
crucial for the prosperity of society.
- Disadvantage:
Bribery slows down economic progress by promoting corruption over
competence, leading to inefficiency and wasted resources.
8.
Promotion of a Culture of Dependency
Bribery encourages individuals to
rely on manipulation and dishonest means rather than hard work, talent, or
skill. This creates a culture where people believe that they can achieve their
goals through bribery rather than through merit and effort. Islam teaches the
importance of earning a livelihood through lawful and honest means.
- Disadvantage:
It promotes a culture of dependency on corrupt practices rather than
fostering self-reliance, hard work, and integrity.
9.
Weakening of Legal and Judicial Systems
Bribery within legal and judicial
systems undermines the rule of law, which is essential for a just society. When
individuals can influence legal outcomes through bribery, the entire system
becomes ineffective and unjust. In Islam, the legal system is meant to be a
source of justice and equity, free from corruption.
- Disadvantage:
It leads to the erosion of the rule of law, making the judicial system
unreliable and unfair.
10.
Encouraging Further Corruption
Bribery often leads to a vicious
cycle of corruption. Once bribery becomes common in a society, it encourages
more people to participate in it, creating a widespread culture of dishonesty
and exploitation. Islam teaches that such practices must be eradicated to preserve
social and moral integrity.
- Disadvantage:
Bribery breeds more corruption and perpetuates a system of injustice,
making it harder to break free from the cycle of corruption.
Conclusion:
Bribery in Islam is seen as a
harmful and destructive practice with far-reaching consequences. It undermines
justice, promotes inequality, and leads to social, economic, and spiritual
harm. The Islamic teachings are clear in prohibiting bribery and encouraging
fairness, transparency, and accountability in all aspects of life. By rejecting
bribery, individuals and societies can work toward a just, ethical, and
prosperous future.