Islamic morality refers to the belief that there are universal, objective moral principles that apply to all people, in all situations, regardless of cultural or historical context. In other words, absolute morality holds that certain actions are
inherently right or wrong, regardless of any subjective opinions or situational factors.
Absolute morality is often contrasted with relativism, which argues that moral principles are subjective and culturally
relative. For absolute moralists, ethical principles are based on fundamental truths or principles that exist independently of human opinion or culture.
Examples of absolute moral principles may include the belief that it is always wrong to kill an innocent person, or that
it is always right, to tell the truth. These principles are seen as universally applicable and not subject to cultural or historical variation.
Examples of Absolute Morality
Here are a few additional examples of absolute moral principles:
The prohibition against rape:
We know that sexual assault is always morally wrong, regardless of the circumstances. This principle is based on the idea that each person has the right to autonomy over their own body, and that non-consensual sexual contact
violates that right.
The value of human life:
We believe that all human life is inherently valuable and that it is always wrong to intentionally take an innocent life. This principle is often used to argue against actions such as abortion, euthanasia and killing civilians in war.
The importance of honesty:
We believe that it is always morally right to tell the truth, even if doing so may be difficult or lead to negative consequences.
The principle of justice:
We believe that it is always morally right to treat people fairly and impartially and to ensure that each person receives what they are due. This principle is often used to argue for policies such as equal pay, due process in legal proceedings, and the protection of human rights.
The Quran and Absolute Morality
Islamic scholars and followers believe that the Quran promotes absolute morality. According to Islamic teachings, the Quran is considered the word of Allah, revealed to Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel. It is believed to contain universal moral principles that apply to all people, in all times and places.
The Quran lays out a moral framework that includes absolute moral principles, such as the prohibition of murder, theft,
and adultery, as well as the obligation to be honest, just, and kind to others. These principles are seen as universal and not subject to cultural or historical variation.
Additionally, the Quran teaches that Allah has provided guidance for humanity through his prophets and messengers, who were sent to communicate his message and exemplify moral behavior. Muslims believe that the life of the Prophet Muhammad is a model of moral conduct and that his actions and teachings provide guidance for how to live a morally upright life.
However, it is important to note that there may be differences in interpretation among different Islamic scholars and communities regarding the specific moral principles taught in the Quran and how they should be applied in practice.
Additionally, there may be differences of opinion regarding the relationship between absolute moral principles and the relative context of different situations.
Allah Almighty said:
And from among you there must be a class who invite people to all that is good and enjoin the doing of all that is right and forbid the doing of all that is wrong. It is they who will attain true success. [Quran, 3:104]
This verse is often interpreted by Islamic scholars as promoting absolute morality, in the sense that it encourages
Muslims to enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong, based on a set of universal moral principles. Muslims are called upon to promote goodness and righteousness and to work towards establishing a just and ethical society.
The concept of enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong, known in Arabic as “Amr bil Ma’roof wa Nahi anil Munkar,” is seen as an important principle in Islamic ethics, and is based on the belief that promoting virtue and preventing vice is a collective responsibility of all Muslims.
In Islamic teachings, Ma’aroof is often seen as promoting absolute morality, in the sense that it includes universal
moral principles that are applicable to all people, in all situations. These principles are seen as grounded in the nature of God and his creation, and as reflecting his divine will and wisdom.
At the same time, the application of Ma’aroof may vary depending on cultural and historical context. For example, the
specific ways in which people express kindness, generosity, and other virtuous behaviors may differ depending on cultural norms and expectations. Similarly, the way in which justice is administered may vary depending on the legal and political structures of a particular society.
Absolute Morality and Psychology
The majority of modern psychologists argue that morality is a universal and objective aspect of human
nature and that there are certain moral principles that are universally valid and applicable to all cultures and individuals. They may see absolute morality as being grounded in human nature, and as reflecting fundamental principles of justice, fairness, and compassion that are essential for human flourishing. They may also argue that absolute morality is important for creating a sense of social cohesion and promoting pro-social behavior.
Neurotransmitters and Moral Behavior
There is some evidence to suggest that neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers in the brain, may play a role in the cultivation of moral behavior, including absolute morality.
For example, research has shown that the neurotransmitter serotonin is involved in regulating mood, social behavior, and decision-making processes. Low levels of serotonin have been associated with impulsivity, aggression, and antisocial behavior, while higher levels of serotonin have been linked to prosocial behavior and moral judgment.
Other research has focused on the role of oxytocin, another neurotransmitter, in promoting social bonding and trust.
Oxytocin has been shown to increase feelings of empathy and generosity and to promote cooperative behavior in social interactions.
Several studies have found that listening to music can activate the brain’s reward system and increase dopamine release. For example, one study found that listening to pleasurable music led to increased dopamine
release in the striatum, a region of the brain that is involved in reward processing. Another study found that music that was chosen by participants as highly enjoyable led to increased dopamine release in the amygdala and ventral
striatum, two regions of the brain that are involved in emotional processing and reward.
Interestingly, research also suggests that the degree to which music is enjoyed may be related to the extent of dopamine release. In other words, the more pleasurable or enjoyable the music is to an individual, the more dopamine may be released in response to listening.
Many more studies suggest that moral behavior is directly influenced by neurotransmitters. Though some other factors may be involved in shaping behavior, but neurotransmitters play a key role in shaping behavior. If neurotransmitters are universal then moral behavior must be universal. Consequently, absolute morality is directly linked with neurotransmitters.
Somebody can raise an objection, that if our behavior is influenced by inherent neurotransmitters, why we are accountable for our actions?
Actually, these are the levels of neurotransmitters that influence our behavior, not the presence of the chemicals alone. These levels are controlled by our actions. Islam, in addition to moral values, gives a system of life that regulates these
neurotransmitters properly. If we follow, Islamic teachings we can easily regulate neurotransmitters in a healthy way. Salat, Zakat, Sawm, and Hajj help regulate these chemicals in our brains.
Empathy: A Core Moral Value in Islam
What is Empathy?
Implications of Empathy in Real Life
Empathy has several implications in real life, including:
- Improving relationships: Empathy helps individuals connect with others on a deeper level and develop more meaningful relationships.
- Conflict resolution: Empathy can be used to defuse conflict by allowing individuals to see things from another’s perspective.
- Emotional intelligence: Empathy is a key component of emotional intelligence and can help individuals navigate complex social situations.
- Better communication: Empathy allows individuals to communicate more effectively by understanding the emotions and thoughts of others.
- Increased compassion: Empathy leads to greater compassion for others and a desire to help those in need.
- Promoting equality: Empathy can help to promote equality by allowing individuals to see things from the perspective of others who may have different life experiences.
Difference Between Empathy and Sympathy
Empathy and sympathy are related but distinct concepts. The difference between the two is as follows:
- Empathy: Empathy involves being able to understand and share the feelings of another person. It involves putting oneself in another’s shoes and imagining what they might be feeling.
- Sympathy: Sympathy involves feeling sorry for someone who is experiencing hardship or suffering. It is more of a passive emotion and involves feeling compassion or pity for another person without necessarily understanding their feelings.
In summary, empathy involves a deeper level of emotional connection, while sympathy is more of a surface-level feeling of compassion or pity.
How does Islam promote empathy?
Islam promotes empathy as a core value. Empathy and compassion are considered important Islamic virtues and are encouraged in many ways throughout the religion. For example:
- Compassion for fellow human beings: Islam emphasizes the importance of caring for others, particularly those who are less fortunate, and promoting compassion and kindness towards others.
- Empathy for the suffering of others: Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of being mindful of the suffering of others and working to alleviate their pain.
- Mercy and forgiveness: Islam encourages individuals to show mercy and forgiveness towards others, and to be patient and understanding with those who may have wronged them.
Overall, Islam places a strong emphasis on promoting empathy and compassion for others and encourages individuals to practice these values in all aspects of their lives.
Quranic Injunctions about Empathy
The Qur’an repeatedly guides the Muslims to show empathy and sympathy altogether. Here are a few examples of Quranic verses that emphasize the importance of empathy and compassion:
- “And what will make you realize what ˹attempting˺ the challenging path is? It is to pay debts on behalf of others or to give food in times of famine, to an orphaned relative, or to a poor person in distress, and—above all—to be one of those who have faith and urge each other to perseverance and urge each other to compassion. (Quran 90:12-17)
- “And not alike are the good deed and the bad. Repel [evil] by that [deed] which is better; and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity [will become] as though he was a devoted friend.” (Quran 41:34)
- “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.” (Quran 5:8)
These verses highlight the importance of showing empathy, compassion and kindness towards others, even to those who may not share the same beliefs or backgrounds, and promoting justice and fairness in all aspects of life.
Prophetic Guidelines about Empathy
Certainly, here are a few Hadiths (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad) that emphasize the importance of empathy:
- “The merciful will be shown mercy by the Most Merciful. Be merciful to those on the earth, and the One above the heavens will have mercy upon you.” (Hadith narrated by Tirmidhi)
- “None of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself.” (Hadith narrated by Bukhari and Muslim)
- “The best among you is the one who is best to his wife, and I am the best among you to my wives.” (Hadith narrated by Tirmidhi)
These Hadiths highlight the importance of treating others with kindness, compassion and empathy, and emphasize the idea that how one behaves towards others reflects one’s own level of faith. They encourage individuals to treat others as they would like to be treated themselves.
Connection Between Empathy and Brotherhood in Islam
In Islam, empathy and compassion are closely tied to the concept of brotherhood (Ummah). Islam emphasizes the idea that all Muslims are brothers and sisters and that they should support and care for each other. Empathy and compassion are seen as key components of this relationship, allowing individuals to understand and share the feelings of others and to act in ways that promote the well-being of their fellow Muslims.
The idea of empathy and compassion is central to the concept of Islamic brotherhood, as it allows individuals to develop strong emotional connections with each other, promoting unity, cooperation, and mutual support. By showing empathy and compassion, Muslims are encouraged to see others as part of a larger community and to act in ways that benefit the collective, rather than just their own individual interests.
In summary, empathy and compassion are critical to the idea of Islamic brotherhood, promoting unity, cooperation, and mutual support among Muslims.
How offering Salat in congregation is related to empathy?
Offering Salat, or daily prayers, in congregation is related to empathy in Islam as it promotes a sense of community and unity among Muslims. When individuals offer Salat in congregation, they come together as a group to perform the prayers, facing in the same direction, and following a specific, unified ritual.
This act of coming together and performing a shared ritual helps to promote a sense of empathy and understanding among individuals, as they are able to see and experience the common needs and struggles of others.
In addition, the act of Salat itself is seen as a means of developing empathy, as it involves acknowledging the presence of a higher power and asking for guidance and support. By doing so, individuals are encouraged to be mindful of their own needs and those of others and to act in ways that promote the well-being of the entire community.
Furthermore, Salat in congregation helps to promote a sense of equality, as all individuals, regardless of their social status, come together to perform the prayers in a unified manner. This helps to break down barriers and promote understanding and empathy among individuals from different backgrounds and cultures.
In summary, offering Salat in congregation is related to empathy in Islam as it promotes a sense of community, unity, and equality among individuals. The act of performing the prayers in a shared manner helps to promote understanding, empathy, and a focus on the needs of others.
How Sawm (fasting) is related to empathy?
Sawm, or fasting, is a spiritual practice in Islam that is closely tied to the concept of empathy. The act of fasting involves refraining from eating, drinking, and engaging in other physical needs for a set period of time, usually from dawn until sunset.
Fasting is seen as a way to develop empathy for those who are less fortunate and do not have access to sufficient food and water. By temporarily giving up these necessities, individuals are encouraged to understand and appreciate the difficulties faced by those who do not have enough to eat or drink on a regular basis.
In addition, fasting is seen as a means of self-discipline and self-control, promoting empathy by encouraging individuals to be mindful of their own needs and desires and to focus on the needs of others.
Furthermore, fasting helps to promote a sense of unity and community among Muslims, as individuals come together to fast during the month of Ramadan, breaking their fasts at sunset and sharing meals with family, friends, and community members.
In summary, fasting, or Sawm, is closely tied to the concept of empathy in Islam, promoting self-discipline and self-control, as well as an understanding of the difficulties faced by those who do not have enough to eat or drink. It helps to promote a sense of unity and community and encourages individuals to focus on the needs of others.
How Zakat is related to empathy?
Zakat is a form of giving in Islam that is meant to promote empathy and compassion. The concept of Zakat is closely tied to the Islamic value of caring for those in need and encourages individuals to share their wealth and resources with those who are less fortunate.
By giving Zakat, Muslims are encouraged to develop a sense of empathy for those who are struggling, and to put themselves in their shoes, imagining what it might be like to face hardship or poverty. This helps to promote a deeper understanding of the needs of others and to act in ways that promote the well-being of the entire community.
Zakat is seen as a way of purifying one’s wealth, as well as a means of demonstrating one’s commitment to Islamic values such as compassion and empathy. By giving Zakat, Muslims are encouraged to reflect on their own blessings and to use their wealth and resources in ways that promote the well-being of others, rather than just themselves.
In summary, Zakat is closely tied to the idea of empathy and compassion and encourages individuals to develop a deeper understanding of the needs of others and to act in ways that promote the well-being of the entire community.
How does Hajj promote empathy among Ummah?
Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to the Holy City of Mecca, is seen as a way to promote empathy and compassion among the Muslim Ummah, or community. The Hajj is a journey that requires significant physical, emotional, and financial effort and is considered one of the five pillars of Islam.
One of the ways that Hajj promotes empathy and compassion is through its focus on the idea of equality. During the Hajj, individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds come together to perform the same rituals, regardless of their social status or wealth. This helps to break down barriers and promote a sense of unity and understanding among the Ummah.
Another way that Hajj promotes empathy and compassion is through its focus on the idea of sacrifice. The act of making the journey to Mecca, and the rituals performed there, are seen as a means of sacrificing one’s own comfort and needs for the greater good of the Ummah. This helps to develop a sense of empathy for those who face hardship and difficulty and encourages individuals to act in ways that promote the well-being of the entire community.
In addition, the Hajj provides individuals with an opportunity to reflect on their own lives and to consider the needs of others. By performing the rituals in a shared manner, individuals are encouraged to be mindful of their own needs and those of others and to act in ways that promote the well-being of the entire community.
In summary, the Hajj is seen as a way to promote empathy and compassion among the Muslim Ummah. Through its focus on equality, sacrifice, and reflection, the Hajj encourages individuals to develop a deeper understanding of the needs of others and to act in ways that promote the well-being of the entire community.
How Empathy Can Dilute Sectarianism in Ummah?
Sectarianism is a major issue in many Muslim communities and can lead to conflicts, violence, and division. Empathy can play a crucial role in reducing sectarianism by promoting understanding, respect, and compassion among individuals from different sects and groups.
By developing empathy, individuals are able to understand and appreciate the perspectives, emotions, and experiences of others, even if they differ from their own. This helps to break down barriers and promote a sense of unity and understanding, which can reduce tensions and conflicts that are often rooted in sectarianism.
Additionally, empathy can encourage individuals to engage in dialogue and cooperation with others, even if they come from different sects or groups. By working together towards a common goal or purpose, individuals can develop a sense of shared purpose and identity, which can help to overcome sectarian divisions and promote greater unity.
In summary, empathy can play a crucial role in reducing sectarianism by promoting understanding, respect, and compassion among individuals from different sects and groups. By developing empathy, individuals can break down barriers, engage in dialogue and cooperation, and promote greater unity, which can help to overcome sectarian divisions.
Conclusion
Empathy refers to the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. In psychology, it is considered an important aspect of social and emotional development. Empathy has numerous implications in real life, such as improving relationships, reducing conflicts, and promoting pro-social behavior.
Islam promotes empathy through various teachings and practices such as Zakat, Sawm, and Salat in congregation. The annual pilgrimage to Mecca, Hajj, is also seen as a way to promote empathy and compassion among the Muslim community. By performing shared rituals, individuals are encouraged to develop a sense of equality, sacrifice, and reflection, and to act in ways that promote the well-being of the entire community.
