Islam and Society: The Message of Humanity Amidst Contemporary Challenges

By Maulana Javed Haider Zaidi, New Age Islam 20 September 2025 Islam and Its Relation to Social Issues According to Islamic teachings, Islam is not merely a set of rituals but a comprehensive way of life. It encompasses spiritual, moral, and social dimensions, offering guidance for both individual conduct and collective affairs. The Qur’an describes humanity as “Ashraf al-Makhluqat” (the noblest of all creations), which emphasizes the dignity of human beings and their responsibility to establish justice and compassion in society. In the contemporary era, marked by globalization, inequality, and social fragmentation, this universal message of Islam holds particular significance. The Qur’anic Call for Justice and Humanity The Qur’an emphasizes justice and moral integrity as central values. The verse, “Indeed, Allah commands justice, excellence, and giving to relatives, and He forbids immorality, oppression, and rebellion” (Surah al-Nahl 16:90), is often cited in Islamic scholarship as a comprehensive guideline for social order. Commentators and jurists across centuries have pointed to this verse as a foundation for principles of fairness, equity, and the protection of vulnerable communities. Contemporary Challenges In modern times, one of the most pressing challenges is the misuse of religion in the name of extremism and violence. Scholars widely argue that such practices contradict the Qur’anic principles of peace and coexistence. Similarly, rising social polarization in the digital age has created divisions within and between communities. The Prophet Muhammad is reported to have compared the Muslim community to a single body, where harm to one part is felt by the entire body, thus highlighting the need for solidarity and empathy. Another important area of discussion is the status of women. Historical accounts suggest that Islam granted women rights and recognition at a time when such principles were absent in many societies. The Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet continue to serve as primary references for promoting dignity, equality, and justice for women in modern contexts. The Islamic Approach: Equality and Justice Islamic teachings propose a framework of justice that goes beyond ritual worship. Economic justice is reinforced through zakat and the redistribution of wealth. Social justice is promoted through the protection of minorities, women, and marginalized groups. Moral justice is ensured through truthfulness, compassion, and accountability. These values, when implemented, are viewed as essential for a balanced and ethical society. The Need for Ijtihad and Contemporary Engagement Islam encourages ijtihad (independent reasoning) as a method for addressing evolving circumstances. Contemporary issues such as poverty, education, climate change, and gender equity require scholars and policymakers to engage with Qur’anic principles and Prophetic traditions in ways that respond effectively to present realities. Thinkers like Muhammad Iqbal and Fazlur Rahman have argued that Islam’s vitality lies in its ability to adapt its eternal principles to modern challenges without compromising its foundational values. Conclusion The central message of Islam is one of justice, mercy, peace, and humanity. In the present era, it is the responsibility of religious scholars and social thinkers to present this message in a way that addresses global and local challenges alike. According to Maulana Javed Haider Zaidi, reviving these values is essential for building a society free of extremism, hatred, and division, and for moving towards a more compassionate and equitable world. ----- Maulana Javed Haider Zaidi is an Islamic Shia scholar, writer, and orator. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-society/society-message-humanity-contemporary/d/136914 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism