The concept of justice (*‘adl* in Arabic) is central to Islam and is repeatedly emphasized in the Quran. Justice is not merely a moral virtue but a divine imperative that every Muslim is required to uphold. The Quran, in several verses, enjoins believers to be just, even if it goes against their own interests or those of their community. For example, in verse 4:135, the Quran states:
> “O you who believe! Be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or your parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.”
This verse clearly shows that Islam commands its followers to maintain justice, even when judging between enemies. The obligation to deliver justice is so strong that it surpasses even feelings of hatred or conflict.
The Example of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) himself is the living embodiment of this principle. He often delivered judgments in favor of non-Muslims when they were in the right, despite social or political pressure. The most famous example is the Charter of Medina, an agreement between the various tribes of Medina, including Jews, in which the Prophet guaranteed justice and the protection of the rights of all citizens, regardless of their faith. Another significant story is that of the Prophet reconciling a dispute between a Muslim and a Jew. The Prophet not only judged in favor of the Jew but also warned Muslims not to be swayed by prejudices due to their faith. He emphasized that justice must not be influenced by religious affiliations.
Historical Application: The Bursa Court
The case of the Bursa court and the destruction of the mosque shows that these Quranic and prophetic principles were applied in Islamic history. In this case, Muslim authorities not only recognized the Jews’ rights to the land but also took a drastic decision to demolish a mosque to restore these rights. This decision highlights the importance of land justice and the protection of property rights, even when it concerns a non-Muslim minority in an Islamic empire. It is important to note that in classical Islamic law, the properties of non-Muslims under the protection of the Muslim state (*dhimmi*) are sacred. The Quran clearly states in verse 5:8: >
“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.”
This protection extended to the point where Islamic judges could order the return of property, even if it involved significant sacrifices on the part of the Muslim community.
Conclusion
Islam, as presented in the Quran and illustrated by the life of Prophet Muhammad, is intrinsically linked to justice. The example of the Bursa court is just one of many illustrations of the application of this principle in Islamic history. The fact that the rights of a Jewish community were protected, even at the expense of a mosque, demonstrates that Islam considers justice a sacred duty that transcends religious and ethnic boundaries. This narrative, reinforced by Quranic evidence, confirms that Islam is, above all, a religion of justice.
