📜 Comprehensive Definition
Zulm (ظلم) refers to acts of injustice, wrongdoing, or oppression. It entails acts of harm or grievance against God, other individuals, or even oneself and stands in direct contrast to the principles of justice, fairness, and lawful conduct in Islam. Traditionally used to discuss the misuse of power, oppression by rulers, and the suffering of the oppressed.
📝 Etymology
The term “Zulm” stems from the Arabic root “ظ-ل-م” (ẓ-l-m), which translates to darkness or shadow. This alludes to obscuring the light of justice with acts of wrongdoing.
🌏 Background & Historical Facts
Historically, Zulm encapsulated the concepts of tyranny and unjust rule, often discussed in medieval Islamic political literature that advised rulers and outlined principles of governance. For example, medieval texts like ‘Siyasatnama’ (The Book of Government) by Nizam al-Mulk heavily criticized Zulm by leaders.
Shia Tradition: In Shia Islam, Zulm resonates deeply with the historical suffering endured by their community, particularly perspectives on Sunni rulership which they deemed oppressive. The martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali at Karbala is frequently referenced as a symbol of Zulm.
🕌 Cultural Differences & Similarities
Across the Muslim world, Zulm carries connotations of social justice, echoing the religious duty to combat oppression and the call to social equity. Despite variances in local traditions, all Islamic cultures regard Zulm as a betrayal of core ethical and religious principles.
Synonyms: Injustice, Oppression, Tyranny, Despotism.
Antonyms: Justice (Adl), Fairness (Insaf), Righteousness (Salihat).
Related Terms:
- Adl (عدل): Justice, the opposite of Zulm.
- Taqwa (تقوى): God-consciousness, avoiding Zulm as a part of moral piety.
- Haq (حق): Rights, the antithesis of engaging in Zulm.
✨ Exciting Facts
- Usool al-Zulm: In Islamic jurisprudence, specific categorizations of Zulm are outlined, including injury to persons, false testimony, and infringement of property rights.
- Quotations: “Allah loves not the oppressors.” - Qur’an (3:140). This verse deeply resonates with the Muslim ethic against Zulm.
📚 Suggested Literature
- “Siyasatnama” by Nizam al-Mulk: Explores the responsibilities of rulers and condemns Zulm.
- “Nahj al-Balagha”: Compendium of sermons and letters by Imam Ali dealing with justice and Zulm.
- “Al-Mabsut” by Al-Shaybani: Discusses Zulm from a jurisprudential point of view.
🌐 Translations
- Arabic: ظلم (Zulm)
- Persian: ظلم (Zolm)
- Urdu: ظلم (Zulm)
- Turkish: Zülüm
- Indonesian: Kezaliman
- Bengali: জুলম (Julom)
💡 Inspirational Farewell
Reflecting on the concept of Zulm invites us to shine the light of justice in areas darkened by injustice, urging both self-awareness and activism. Propel discourse and transformative action anchored in the ethical values reiterated through Islamic teachings.
Yusuf Al-Mansoor بازتابهای عدالت - Kindle مخالف قلت ظلم را افزایش دهیم.✨
