World Day of Social Justice: A Call for Justice in the Light of Islamic Teachings

February 19, 2025

The Urgent Need for Social Justice

On this important occasion of the World Day of Social Justice (February 20th), we are reminded of the pressing need to confront the injustices that plague our world. From the rampant discrimination and inequality between nations to the social and economic disparities within societies, the challenges to achieving justice are countless. We live in a world where systemic oppression, social exclusion, and the denial of human rights are far too common. Whether it is the marginalization of certain communities based on race, ethnicity, gender, or class, or the unjust treatment of vulnerable populations, the need for justice is more urgent than ever.

Justice as a Core Islamic Principle

Islam, in its essence, calls for the establishment of justice in every aspect of human life. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of justice and fairness in dealing with others.

The Quran introduces the purpose of sending prophets, revealing heavenly books, and the “Mizan” (the scale- as a means of measurement), to guide people in establishing justice. As it says, “And We certainly sent Our messengers with clear proofs, and We sent down with them the Book and the Balance that people may uphold justice” (57:25).

In another verse, God commands us to stand firmly for justice, even if it goes against our own interests or those of our family, “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for God, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.” (4:135).

In another verse, two important topics are addressed: the importance of being just even with enemies and opponents, and the connection between justice and taqwa (the key value in Islam). The verse says,  “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for God, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. And do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to taqwa (piety). And fear God; indeed, God is All-Aware of what you do” (Al-Ma’idah/8).

On the other hand, the Quran mentions divine punishment as one of the horrible consequences of injustice, “And whoever among you commits injustice, We will make him taste a great punishment” (25:19).

Serving Humanity as a Path to Justice

In the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (p), the commitment to justice is not merely a political or social duty, but a deeply spiritual and moral one. In a relatively detailed hadith, the Prophet (pbuh&hp) encourages Muslims to uphold justice and stand against the oppressors with the following words, “Whoever takes the right of the oppressed from the oppressor will be with me in paradise as a companion” (Al-Majlisi, Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 75, p. 359, h. 74).

In a narration from Imam Sadiq (p), after mentioning some points, the following are stated as some of the pleasant outcomes of justice, “Indeed, people become self-sufficient when justice is practiced among them, the heavens will send down their provisions, and the earth will bring forth its blessings by the permission of God, the Almighty” (Al-Kulaini, Al-Kafi, vol. 3, p. 568, Hadith 6).

On the topic of social justice, Islam also stresses the importance of collective efforts. It is not the responsibility of a few individuals alone to bring about justice, but a shared responsibility for all people, each in accordance with their abilities and opportunities. 

These three narrations, transmitted from Imam Sadiq (p) and the Prophet (pbuh&hp), highlight the importance of responsibility, striving to serve the people, and working for the establishment of social justice. The Prophet (pbuh&hp) said: “Whoever wakes up and does not concern himself with the affairs of the Muslims is not one of them, and whoever hears a man calling, ‘O Muslims!’ and does not respond, he is not a Muslim” (Al-Kulaini, Al-Kafi, vol. 2, p. 164, Hadith 5). This narration emphasizes the collective responsibility Muslims have toward each other. In the context of social justice, it stresses that one cannot claim to be part of a community while ignoring the struggles and needs of others. It highlights the connection between individual well-being and the well-being of society, stressing the necessity of striving for social justice.

 Prophet (pbuh&hp) said: “The creation is the family of God, and the most beloved of creation to God is the one who benefits His family and brings happiness to a household.” (Al-Kulaini, Al-Kafi, vol. 2, p. 164, Hadith 6) This narration highlights the Islamic principle of universal brotherhood, where all humans are considered part of God’s family. From a social justice perspective, it calls for empathy, compassion, and the responsibility to serve others. It underscores that true justice involves actions that benefit society, especially through alleviating suffering and promoting well-being for all.

The Prophet (pbuh&hp) said: “The one who heard Abu Abdullah (p) say: The Messenger of God (pbuh&hp) was asked, ‘Who is the most beloved of people to God?’ He replied: ‘The most beneficial of people to others’” (Al-Kulaini, Al-Kafi, vol. 2, p. 164, Hadith 7). Here, the Prophet (pbuh&hp) underscores that those who contribute most to the welfare of others are the most beloved to God. In terms of social justice, this narration advocates for active involvement in improving society by helping others, addressing inequality, and working for the common good. It frames the pursuit of justice as a service to humanity.

The Pivotal and Elevated Role of Imam Mahdi (p) in Establishing Global Justice

In Shia Islam, the concept of justice is intricately tied to the belief in the coming of Imam Mahdi (p), the awaited savior who will establish justice on Earth. One of the most significant roles that Imam Mahdi (p) will undertake when he returns is the restoration of justice. According to a narration from Imam Ali (p), when Imam Mahdi (p) appears, he will fill the Earth with justice, just as it has been filled with oppression and injustice:

More than 150 narrations have been reported through various sources that, with somewhat similar wording, say that with the appearance of the Hidden Imam, the earth will be filled with justice and fairness, just as it was previously filled with oppression and tyranny. For instance: 

“He is the Imam whom God will raise over all religions, and he will fill the earth with justice and fairness, just as it was filled with tyranny and oppression. This is what we have mentioned, and its interpretation will be clear after his appearance” (Al-Majlisi, Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 51, p. 50, Hadith 22).

Thes ahadith clearly illustrate the essential role of Imam Mahdi (p) in eliminating the oppression that has plagued the world and establishing a just and equitable society. As we await the appearance of the Imam (p), it is crucial that we do not simply wait passively but actively strive to avoid injustice in our own lives and contribute, to the best of our abilities, to the establishment of justice.

Personal Responsibility in the Pursuit of Justice

All aspirants of social justice, especially we, the followers of the School of Ahl al-Bayt (p) and the expectants of the appearance of Imam Mahdi (p), must recognize that the wait for justice is not an excuse for complacency. The Imam (p) will only bring justice to a world that has collectively struggled for it. This means that we must work, in every way possible, to promote justice in our societies, whether through advocating for the rights of the oppressed, fighting against systemic discrimination, or addressing the injustices present in our own communities.

In conclusion, on this World Day of Social Justice, let us renew our commitment to justice, following the example of the Ahl al-Bayt (p), and work together to create a more just world for all. As we await the arrival of Imam Mahdi (p), let us actively contribute to the establishment of justice in every corner of our lives, ensuring that we do not merely wait for change but work toward it, with sincerity and dedication.

May God grant us the strength to uphold justice in all our actions and to contribute to the creation of a just and peaceful world, in preparation for the advent of Imam Mahdi (p).