The Quran provides a robust moral framework, guiding believers on how to live righteous lives while navigating complex moral and social interactions. Using Rashad Khalifa’s translation, this article explores key Quranic principles of righteousness, equity, and moral accountability, addressing how they apply in personal decisions and relationships in a diverse and pluralistic world.

1. Defining Righteousness in the Quran

Righteousness in the Quran encompasses belief, ethical behavior, and fulfilling social and spiritual responsibilities. It is not defined by superficial rituals but by deeper convictions and actions that align with God’s guidance:

Faith as the Foundation of Righteousness

Righteousness begins with unwavering belief in God, His messengers, scriptures, and the Hereafter:

“Righteousness is not turning your faces towards the east or the west. Righteous are those who believe in God, the Last Day, the angels, the scripture, and the prophets…” (2:177).

Faith establishes the foundation for moral decisions, directing believers to a life centered on submission to God.

Practical Expressions of Righteousness

The verse continues:

“…and they give money, cheerfully, to the relatives, the orphans, the needy, the traveling alien, the beggars, and to free the slaves; and they observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) and give the obligatory charity (Zakat); and they keep their word whenever they make a promise; and they steadfastly persevere in the face of persecution, hardship, and war. These are the truthful; these are the righteous” (2:177).

Righteousness is a balance of belief, acts of worship, and deeds that benefit others. It includes financial generosity, fulfilling obligations, and demonstrating patience during adversity.

2. Equity: A Cornerstone of Justice

Equity (qist) in the Quran reflects the practical application of righteousness in society. It demands fairness and impartiality, even in challenging circumstances:

Absolute Justice

Equity requires setting aside personal biases and acting justly:

“O you who believe, you shall be absolutely equitable, and observe God, even if you serve as witnesses against yourselves, or your parents, or your relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, God takes care of both. Therefore, do not be biased by your personal desires, lest you deviate. If you deviate or disregard (this commandment), then God is fully Cognizant of everything you do.” (4:135).

Fairness must be upheld, even if it conflicts with personal interests or familial loyalty.

Justice Toward Adversaries

The Quran warns against letting hatred compromise justice:

“Do not be provoked by your hatred towards certain people into committing injustice. Be just; it is closer to righteousness. You shall observe God. God is fully Cognizant of everything you do.” (5:8).

Equity requires treating all people fairly, including those with whom one disagrees or holds enmity.

Balance in All Dealings

The Quran emphasizes balance and fairness in broader interactions:

“You shall establish justice; do not violate the law.” (55:9).

Equity applies not only in interpersonal relationships but also in business, trade, and stewardship of resources.

3. Accountability and Moral Autonomy

The Quran establishes individual accountability as a core principle:

“No soul bears the sins of another.” (6:164).

This principle highlights that individuals are responsible for their own actions, based on their understanding and intentions. It also underscores that believers must focus on their own conduct rather than imposing their moral standards on others.

Accountability Depends on Knowledge

“We never punish without first sending a messenger.” (17:15).

People are held accountable only for actions they knowingly commit as sins. Those unaware of certain prohibitions are judged according to their understanding.

4. Respecting Diversity in Beliefs

The Quran teaches that while its moral principles are universal, human diversity in beliefs and practices must be respected:

No Compulsion in Religion

“There shall be no compulsion in religion. The right path is now distinct from the wrong path.” (2:256).

Each individual has the freedom to choose their way, and believers are not tasked with forcing others to follow Quranic guidance.

Mutual Respect

“Do not insult those whom they set up beside God, lest they insult God, out of ignorance.” (6:108).

Respect for differing beliefs fosters harmony and avoids unnecessary conflicts.

5. Righteousness in Practical Scenarios: Facilitating Pork Consumption

A practical application of these principles arises when a believer must navigate a situation where their actions may indirectly support practices they consider sinful. For example, is it unrighteous for a Submitter to purchase or prepare pork for a Christian client?

Prohibition of Pork for Submitters

The Quran forbids the consumption of pork:

“Prohibited for you are animals that die of themselves, blood, the meat of pigs, and animals dedicated to other than God.” (5:3).

This prohibition applies to believers, not universally.

Differing Standards of Righteousness

For a Christian, eating pork is not considered sinful, as their religious framework does not forbid it. The Quran acknowledges such diversity:

“To each of you, we have decreed laws and different rites. Had God willed, He could have made you one community.” (5:48).

Thus, facilitating someone else’s dietary preferences, when they do not view them as sinful, does not constitute cooperation in unrighteousness.

Personal Responsibility and Intention

The Quran emphasizes that actions are judged by intentions. Helping someone in a professional capacity without endorsing their practices does not compromise one’s righteousness:

“Your sole mission is the delivery of the message. It is we who will call them to account.” (13:40).

As long as the believer does not personally consume pork or advocate its permissibility, their actions align with Quranic principles.

6. Avoiding Moral Relativism

While respecting others’ choices, the Quran provides an objective moral compass:

“This Quran guides to what is more upright.” (17:9).

Believers must adhere to Quranic definitions of righteousness and evil, avoiding the notion that all moral standards are equally valid.

Clear Definitions of Evil

The Quran explicitly defines evil as actions such as idolatry, lying, oppression, and aggression (6:151-152, 7:33). These standards are non-negotiable, but their application must consider context and respect for free will.

7. Conclusion

The Quran provides a comprehensive and universal framework for understanding righteousness, equity, and accountability. These principles emphasize faith, ethical behavior, and fairness, while respecting diversity and individual responsibility. Believers are called to uphold these values in their own lives while navigating a pluralistic world with compassion and integrity.

By grounding morality in the Quran’s objective guidance and recognizing the free will of others, Submitters can maintain their own righteousness without imposing it on others. This balance fosters both moral consistency and harmonious coexistence in an interconnected world.