Righteousness Defined

(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:177) provides a comprehensive definition of righteousness in Islam. Let's break down the key components:

1. Not About Direction:

   • [2:177] "Righteousness is not turning your faces towards the east or the west."
   • The verse begins by negating the notion that righteousness is solely about facing a particular direction during worship. It emphasizes that true righteousness goes beyond mere external rituals.

2. Attributes of the Righteous:

   • [2:177] "Righteous are those who believe in GOD, the Last Day, the angels, the scripture, and the prophets..."
   • The characteristics of the righteous are outlined. They include belief in God, belief in the Last Day, belief in angels, belief in divine scriptures, and belief in the prophets.

3. Acts of Charity:

   • [2:177] "...and they give the money, cheerfully, to the relatives, the orphans, the needy, the traveling alien, the beggars, and to free the slaves..."
   • Righteousness involves acts of charity, given willingly and with a cheerful heart. This includes supporting relatives, orphans, the needy, travelers, beggars, and contributing to the freeing of slaves.

4. Observance of Salat and Zakat:

   • [2:177] "...and they observe the Prayers (Salat) and give the obligatory charity (Zakat)..."
   • The righteous observe the Prayers (Salat) and fulfill the obligation of giving Zakat, emphasizing the importance of both spiritual devotion and financial assistance to those in need.

5. Integrity:

   • [2:177] "...and they keep their word whenever they make a promise..."
   • Righteousness includes integrity and keeping one's word. Promises and commitments are honored.

6. Perseverance:

   • [2:177] "...and they steadfastly persevere in the face of persecution, hardship, and war."
   • The righteous display perseverance in the face of challenges, including persecution, hardship, and war.

7. Truthfulness:

   • [2:177] "These are the truthful; these are the righteous."
   • Truthfulness is highlighted as a characteristic of the righteous. They are honest in their actions and words.

This verse provides a holistic view of righteousness, emphasizing a balance between belief, ethical conduct, charitable actions, prayer, financial contributions, integrity, perseverance, and truthfulness. It underscores the idea that righteousness is a comprehensive way of life that encompasses both belief and action.

Read the previous blog on Versus From The Quran-Salat:5