Faith, Reason and Social Justice in Islam: Reflections by Maulana Javed Haider Zaidi

By Maulana Javed Haider Zaidi, New Age Islam 24 September 2025 Islam, since its very inception, has been a religion of balance—between faith and reason, between spirituality and social responsibility. In the Qur’an, God repeatedly commands believers not only to worship Him but also to establish justice, show compassion, and uphold human dignity. These principles are at the heart of Islamic teachings and remain as relevant today as they were in the time of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him and his progeny). As a student of Islamic theology and an observer of contemporary society, I firmly believe that our faith demands active participation in building a just and ethical world. Religion cannot be confined to rituals alone; it must inspire us to reform society and respond to the challenges of our time. Islam and Social Responsibility The Holy Prophet (pbuh) declared: “The best among you are those who are most beneficial to others.” This saying reflects the very spirit of Islam, which places service to humanity as an essential part of faith. In today’s world, poverty, inequality, and intolerance remain pressing concerns. Muslims must recognize that working towards social justice is a form of worship and obedience to God. In the school of Ahl al-Bayt (the family of the Prophet), we find countless examples of commitment to human dignity and compassion. Imam Ali (a.s.), the first Imam, emphasized that governance and leadership are not for personal gain but for ensuring the welfare of the oppressed and marginalized. Imam Hussain (a.s.), through his sacrifice at Karbala, demonstrated that standing against injustice is an eternal duty, even when one is few in number. Contemporary Challenges and Islamic Thought In the 21st century, Muslims face a dual challenge: on one hand, misconceptions about Islam fueled by extremism and misrepresentation; on the other, internal struggles with sectarianism, rigidity, and detachment from intellectual progress. The Qur’an reminds us: “Do not follow blindly that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart—about all those one will be questioned” (17:36). This verse invites Muslims to think critically, seek knowledge, and apply wisdom in all matters. Blind imitation and stagnation harm the Ummah. Islam is a religion of reason (aql), and faith is complete only when guided by intellect. Therefore, our community must invest in education, interfaith dialogue, and reform within our own ranks. We must resist the misuse of religion for political gains and instead revive the true essence of Islam—compassion, justice, and respect for diversity. The Path Forward As Muslims in India and across the world, we must adopt a constructive approach that blends spiritual devotion with civic responsibility. True religiosity is not about isolating ourselves from society but engaging with it meaningfully. From supporting the poor and promoting women’s education to standing against corruption and communal hatred, every act of social reform is an extension of our religious duty. Islam is not an obstacle to progress—it is a foundation for it. When practiced in its true spirit, Islam nurtures harmony, human dignity, and intellectual freedom. Conclusion The message of Islam, as taught by the Qur’an and exemplified by the Prophet and his family, is timeless: faith without justice is incomplete, and worship without service to humanity is hollow. Today, more than ever, Muslims must embody this holistic vision of religion—where prayer strengthens morality, and morality builds a just society. This is the path that leads not only to spiritual salvation but also to a better world for all. ---- Maulana Javed Haider Zaidi is an Islamic Shia scholar, writer, and orator. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-society/faith-reason-social-justice/d/136959 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism