What are the applications of the concept of 'Justice' (Adl) in the Quran?

The concept of 'Adl' (justice) in the Holy Quran is one of the most fundamental and comprehensive principles, not only being a preeminent attribute of Allah Almighty but also having extensive applications as a vital and foundational principle for regulating human individual, social, economic, and political relations. In Arabic, 'Adl' literally means placing everything in its rightful place, equality, balance, moderation, and fairness. In the Quranic context, it transcends a purely legal concept to represent a moral value and the bedrock of the Islamic worldview. God refers to Himself as 'Al-Adl,' the Just, and this attribute is manifested in all His creation and laws, such that the entire universe is built upon justice and balance. One of the most significant applications of 'Adl' in the Quran is its manifestation as a divine attribute. Allah is the Absolute Just One, and no form of oppression or injustice can be found in His essence or actions. He has created the universe with perfect balance and unparalleled wisdom. This divine justice is also clearly evident in the enactment of Sharia laws; all divine decrees are established for human prosperity and growth, and for the establishment of order and equity in society. On the Day of Judgment, which is the day of reckoning and recompense, divine justice will be fully realized without the slightest error, and everyone will receive the outcome of their deeds with utmost precision and fairness. This belief in divine justice brings peace to hearts and instills hope in humanity that no right will be trampled upon, and no falsehood will prevail. Another crucial application of 'Adl' is the Quran's emphatic command for humans to establish justice and equity (Qist). The Quran strongly enjoins believers to uphold 'Qist' and 'Adl.' This command is not merely a moral recommendation but a divine obligation that encompasses all aspects of life. At the individual level, justice means respecting one's own rights and the rights of others, maintaining moderation and balance in behavior, speech, and even emotions. One must strike a balance between their material and spiritual needs, worldly and otherworldly aspirations, and avoid extremism and negligence. This internal justice paves the way for external, social justice. In the social dimension, 'Adl' has wide-ranging applications. The Quran places great emphasis on justice in economic, judicial, and political relations. In economic transactions and dealings, there is a strong emphasis on maintaining complete fairness, avoiding shortchanging and exploitation. Allah states: "And establish the weight with justice and do not make deficient the balance" (Surah Ar-Rahman, verse 9). This demonstrates the importance of justice in people's daily interactions. In the judicial realm, 'Adl' means impartial judgment and truthful testimony, even if it is against oneself, parents, or close relatives. The Quran explicitly states: "O you who have believed, be persistently Qawwameen for Allah, witnesses in justice, and let not 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" (Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 8). This verse highlights that even enmity towards a group should not prevent the execution of justice, and acting justly is itself the closest path to piety. Furthermore, 'Adl' in the Quran includes the protection of vulnerable segments of society such as orphans, women, and the poor. Quranic injunctions regarding inheritance, marriage, divorce, and the guardianship of orphans are all based on justice to ensure that no individual's rights are violated. In the political sphere, rulers and leaders of society are obligated to govern with justice and fairness, respecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of race, religion, or social class. Oppression and tyranny in governance are severely condemned and considered among the primary causes of the downfall of governments. 'Adl' is also intertwined with the concepts of 'Qist' and 'Mizan' in the Quran. 'Qist' refers to complete and absolute justice, used where rights are meticulously and equally divided. 'Mizan' (the balance) refers to a means of measurement and establishing equilibrium, applicable in both material and spiritual/moral dimensions. The purpose of sending down divine books and prophets was precisely to establish justice and equity among people. Allah says in Surah Al-Hadid, verse 25: "We have already sent Our messengers with clear evidences and sent down with them the Book and the Balance that the people may maintain [their affairs with] justice." This verse clearly indicates that establishing justice is the ultimate goal of the prophetic missions. In conclusion, the concept of 'Adl' in the Quran is a multifaceted and profound principle that originates from the inherent attributes of Allah and is reflected in all divine laws, commands, and expectations of humanity. Justice is the backbone of a healthy, dynamic, and God-pleasing society. Without justice, no society can achieve true prosperity, nor can human perfection be realized. The Quran repeatedly calls upon people to reflect on divine justice and strive to establish it in their lives and society, paving the way for a good life (Hayat Tayyibah) and salvation. Upholding justice is not only a religious duty but also a guarantor of spiritual peace and social stability.