The Ethical Code of Islam: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction:

In Islam, there is a strict ethical code that must be followed in order to abide by Allah. This code is highlighted in the Koran and is practiced through traditions, actions, clothing, and food consumption. Furthermore, every Muslim is expected to adhere to the fundamental Five Pillars of Islam to successfully 'submit to the will of God.' These include Shahadah, the reciting of the Muslim profession of faith, Salat, which involves completing the ritual prayers five times each day, Zakat, the paying of alms to aid the poor, Sawm, fasting during Ramadan and Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca. These pillars apply to all those who follow Islam, with certain exceptions, such as for those who are disabled or weak. Finally, within Islam, there is a Code of Conduct that is detailed throughout the Koran. Some examples of these teachings in the Koran comprise respecting one's parents, killing children for fear of want is great wickedness and that the flesh of animals that have died by themselves are not to be consumed.

Teaching Against Unethical Behaviour:

Background

The religion of Islam guides all thought and action, therefore having a significant influence on politics and culture. Muslims believe that everything must be for the will of God and that His laws must be obeyed. Teachings of unethical behavior are based on the Koran as it is considered the final word of God, however, other religious writings, such as Bible or the Torah, are thought to have also been sent by God.

Murder is an example of unethical behavior and is greatly discouraged. In the Koran, murder is said to be a Greater Sin, and that there is a Divine punishment for those who undertake it. There are five types of punishments in place for the murderers who kill believers of Islam, which consist of Hell, eternal abode in Hell, involvement in the Divine wrath, being accursed by Allah, and finally, the Great Chastisement. Eternal punishment is reserved only for people who do not believe in Islam and if someone has committed murder, yet they die as a believer of Allah, these punishments do not apply.

Additionally, the Koran teaches against dishonesty and being untrustworthy. Muhammad did not approve of lying unless someone lied to further the cause of Islam. Through being truthful and being amongst others who are truthful, Muslims will accomplish the will of Allah and thus attain safety and comfort in the afterlife.

Marriage is the only way for Muslims to have legitimate sexual relationships. Hence deviating from marriage, as for example sex between a man and a woman outside marriage is not allowed and is called Zina. The Koran also explicitly forbids all same-sex activity and Islamic law prescribes dire punishments for it.

Importance

These teaching are crucial in Islam as they establish the basis for the laws, culture, traditions, and beliefs of Muslim people and countries.

Islam forbids murder as it is against Allah, and adherence to this is of primary importance for Muslims and provides society a sense of security that Allah is looking after them.

Honesty is vital for Islam and goes all the way back to the prophet Muhammad who said that “When honesty is lost, then wait for the Day of Judgment”. Thus, again Allah commands that a Muslim be honest.

Sexual ethics are regulated by many laws and hadiths (traditions) in Islam and much is written in the Koran as such are critical aspects of a Muslim’s life.

Expression

The abhorrence of Murder is expressed in Islam by such strong statements as, “And whoever kills a believer intentionally, his punishment is Hell; he shall abide in it, and Allah will send His wrath on him and curse him and prepare for him a painful chastisement”, or “By Allah, I have not killed anyone. Nor have I co-operated with anyone’s murder.” Allah will say, “Yes, but one day you spoke about a believer and your words caused him to be killed. Hence you are responsible for his murder.”

Honesty implies truthfulness and reliability and it is at the core of all human thought, words, actions, and relationships. Islam commands truthfulness and forbids lying expressed by the words of the prophet Muhammad “Truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise. In addition, a man keeps on telling the truth until he becomes a truthful person. Falsehood leads to wickedness and evil-doing, and wickedness leads to the (Hell) Fire, and a man may keep on telling lies till he is written before God, as a liar”

In Islam, marriage between a man and a woman is an essential requirement. Celibacy is viewed as a bad thing. This is highlighted by the view that children are gifts of God and the aim of marriage.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the ethical code in Islam plays a significant role in guiding the behavior and actions of Muslims. The Koran serves as the primary source for these teachings, and it emphasizes the importance of adhering to the Five Pillars of Islam and the Code of Conduct. Murder, dishonesty, and sexual deviance are strongly condemned, while honesty, marriage, and other virtuous behaviors are highly valued. These teachings are crucial to the laws, culture, and traditions of Muslim society and provide a sense of security and comfort in the belief that Allah is looking after them. Overall, the ethical teachings in Islam aim to promote righteousness, honesty, and morality in all aspects of a Muslim's life.