The 10 Commandments in Islam, rooted in Surah Al-An’am, provide a comprehensive guide to living a righteous life. These commandments emphasize worshiping Allah, kindness to parents, justice, humility, and ethical conduct in all aspects of life. This article explores their significance, practical application, and how they align with universal moral values to inspire a just and harmonious society.

Introduction

Islam, as a faith rooted in divine guidance, provides comprehensive instructions for living a righteous life. Among its teachings, a set of ten principles, often referred to as the “10 Commandments in Islam,” stands out as a framework for ethical and moral conduct. These commandments, primarily drawn from Surah Al-An’am (6:151-153) of the Quran, resonate deeply with universal values.

In this article, we will explore the 10 Commandments in Islam, how they shape the lives of Muslims, and their significance in fostering a moral society.

What Are the 10 Commandments in Islam?

The Islamic equivalent of the “10 Commandments” originates from a Quranic passage that emphasizes fundamental ethical and spiritual principles. These commandments address humanity’s relationship with Allah, society, and personal integrity.

Here is the list of commandments as outlined in Surah Al-An’am:

1. Worship none but Allah.
2. Be kind to parents.
3. Do not kill your children for fear of poverty.
4. Avoid indecency—both open and hidden.
5. Do not kill unjustly.
6. Protect the property of orphans.
7. Fulfill your promises.
8. Be fair in business dealings.
9. Do not follow what you have no knowledge of.
10. Walk humbly on Earth.

These commandments form the foundation of Islamic ethics, emphasizing justice, mercy, and accountability.

A Closer Look at Each Commandment

1. Worship None but Allah

The cornerstone of Islam is Tawheed, the oneness of Allah. This commandment rejects polytheism and idolatry, establishing a direct relationship between humans and their Creator. It is a call to dedicate all acts of worship prayer, charity, and obedience to Allah alone.

2. Be Kind to Parents

Respect and kindness towards parents are heavily emphasized in Islam. The Quran frequently pairs gratitude to parents with gratitude to Allah (Quran 31:14). Acts of kindness towards parents reflect the gratitude for the sacrifices they make.

3. Do Not Kill Your Children for Fear of Poverty

In pre-Islamic Arabia, infanticide was a common practice due to financial insecurity. This commandment explicitly prohibits such acts, affirming the sanctity of life and Allah’s promise to provide sustenance (Quran 17:31).

4. Avoid Indecency Both Open and Hidden

Islam’s moral code prohibits both public and private acts of indecency. This includes not only actions but also speech, intentions, and thoughts that compromise moral integrity.

5. Do Not Kill Unjustly

The sanctity of life is paramount in Islam. This commandment upholds justice by prohibiting murder and advocating for accountability (Quran 5:32).

6. Protect the Property of Orphans

Orphans are among the most vulnerable in society. Islam commands their protection and warns against exploiting their wealth, emphasizing ethical guardianship (Quran 4:10).

7. Fulfill Your Promises

Keeping promises is integral to Islamic ethics. Breaking promises undermines trust and leads to social discord. The Quran regards fulfilling agreements as a sign of true faith (Quran 16:91).

8. Be Fair in Business Dealings

Islam encourages honesty and fairness in commerce. Cheating, fraud, and exploitation are strongly condemned. The Quran calls for the use of accurate weights and measures in trade (Quran 83:1-3).

9. Do Not Follow What You Have No Knowledge Of

This commandment discourages blind imitation and gossip, urging believers to rely on verified information and sound judgment. It is a call for intellectual responsibility.

10. Walk Humbly on Earth

Humility is a valued trait in Islam. This commandment warns against arrogance and pride, advocating for modesty and mindfulness in interactions with others (Quran 31:18).

Comparison with the Ten Commandments in Other Faiths

While Islam’s “10 Commandments” align with the Quran and Hadith, they share commonalities with the Ten Commandments of Judaism and Christianity. Both traditions emphasize monotheism, respect for parents, and moral behavior, highlighting shared ethical foundations.

Relevance of the 10 Commandments in Modern Times

The teachings of the 10 Commandments in Islam remain relevant across generations. They address universal issues like justice, equity, and personal integrity, offering solutions to modern societal challenges:

• Ethical Leadership: Leaders guided by justice and fairness inspire trust and social stability.
• Community Building: Acts of kindness and charity foster harmonious societies.
• Personal Development: Humility and accountability nurture well-rounded individuals.

Practical Application in Daily Life

1. Worship: Dedicate time daily to prayer and reflection.
2. Kindness: Engage in acts of kindness, starting with family.
3. Social Responsibility: Advocate for justice and protect vulnerable members of society.
4. Integrity: Be truthful in speech and honest in business.
5. Humility: Practice modesty and avoid arrogance in interactions.

Conclusion

The 10 Commandments in Islam are not just rules but principles that form the essence of a righteous life. They guide Muslims to build a connection with Allah, foster harmonious relationships, and live with integrity. By adhering to these commandments, individuals can contribute to a just and ethical society.

Embrace these timeless principles, and let them illuminate your path in life.