The Majestic Quran
physical world; rain, rainbows, and earthquakes, fill us with awe that leads to belief in Him. But the disbelievers are deprived of this light (40). This spiritual passage comes in the middle of a legal discussion, and the point is that religious laws are only meaningful if God remains in the centre. The next passage stresses the power of the Almighty, and why we need to observe His rules. Devout believers are promised: “ He will make the believers and the righteous His deputies on Earth as He made those before you His deputies” (55). Four more social manners are pronounced: visiting others; concessions in wearing the Hijab for mature women; eating together; and the company of the Messenger r . The Quran’s Position on Slavery Since slavery was deep-rooted in the seventh century, the Quran didn’t attempt banning it in one big swoop, it would have been impossible to give it up, instead it adopted a gradual tactic: first ensuring slaves have rights; owners were obliged to feed, clothe and allow them freedom to worship. Secondly, those who freed slaves are praised. It prohibited making Muslims slaves. Thirdly, certain atonements could be achieved by freeing slaves, all of which encouraged and improved the status of slaves. Moreover, the Quranic subtext of kindness, generosity and justice required its followers to see slavery as incompatible with Quranic justice, since it violated the concept of Human brotherhood and sisterhood: “If any of your slaves asks for an emancipation contract, and you see some good in them, draft it for them; and give them of the wealth that God has given you.” (33) In the name of God, the Kind, the Caring.
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