What do you know about Imam Sadiq’s Charter of Humanity?

Pars Today – Imam Sadiq (peace be upon him), emphasizing ethical principles such as fairness, honesty, service to others, and the preservation of human dignity, provided valuable guidance for improving human relationships.

Imam Sadiq (peace be upon him), a descendant of the Prophet of Islam, outlined principles for interacting with people that can be referred to as a “Charter of Humanity.” This charter encompasses the reform of relationships, fairness, service to others, honesty, good manners, respect for others’ beliefs, the preservation of human dignity, and concealing others’ faults. Each of these principles not only serves as a path for personal growth but can also help build a healthy, balanced, and divine society. This Pars Today article takes a look at Imam Sadiq’s teachings on the ethics of humane conduct.

Reconciliation among people

"Charity beloved by God includes mending broken relationships and fostering closeness between people who have become distant."
—(Usul al-Kafi, Vol. 2, p. 209, Hadith 1)

Fairness toward people

"Whoever is fair to others in his own conduct will have his judgments accepted by others."
—(Man La Yahduruhu al-Faqih, Vol. 3, p. 13, Hadith 3237)

Service to others

"Whoever strives to fulfill the needs of his Muslim brother, Allah the Almighty will write for him a thousand and thousand good deeds, and through this, His forgiveness will extend to his relatives, neighbors, fellow believers, and acquaintances."
—(Al-Kafi, Vol. 2, p. 197, Hadith 6)

Honesty with people

"Adhere to truthful speech and the fulfillment of trusts. In doing so, you share with people in their wealth in this manner."
—(Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 47, p. 385)

Good conduct toward people

"There are three actions: whoever performs one of them for the sake of Allah, Paradise becomes obligatory for him: spending (simply to please God without asking for any favor or hoping for a return) even in times of scarcity and need, being kind to people, and viewing one’s own rights and those of others fairly."
—(Al-Kafi, Vol. 2, p. 103)

Kind speech toward people

"O our followers, be an honor and adornment for us, and do not bring us disgrace. Speak kindly to people, guard your tongues, and refrain from unnecessary and offensive words."
—(Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 65, p. 15)

Preserving people’s dignity

"The worst of your people are those who like to walk ahead while others follow behind them."
—(Usul al-Kafi, Vol. 2, p. 299, Hadith 8)

Providing for people’s needs

"There are three things that people need: security, justice, and prosperity."
—(Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 75, p. 234, Hadith 44)

Respect for people’s beliefs

"Do not probe into the religions of people, or you will remain without friends."
—(Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 75, p. 253, Hadith 109)

Concealing the faults of others

"Avoid stubbornness, meaningless laughter, scrutinizing the faults of others, and interfering in matters that do not concern you."
—(Safinat al-Bihar, Entry: Lajj)