CSS Islamiat | Amr bil Ma’ruf wa Nahi ‘anil Munkar
The following question is solved by Miss Ayesha Irfan, the highest scorer in CSS Islamiat. Moreover, the question is attempted using the same pattern taught by Sir Syed Kazim Ali to his students, who have scored the highest marks in compulsory subjects for years. This solved past paper question is uploaded to help aspirants understand how to crack a topic or question, write relevantly, what coherence is, and how to include and connect ideas, opinions, and suggestions to score the maximum.
Among the essential pillars of an Islamic society stands the duty of Amr bil Ma’ruf wa Nahi ‘anil Munkar, commanding what is right and forbidding what is wrong. This principle is not merely an abstract moral ideal but a living responsibility upon every Muslim individual and collective authority. It forms the ethical backbone of Islamic civilization, aiming to maintain justice, protect truth, and safeguard human dignity in public and private life.
This principle is deeply embedded in the Quran, the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and the actions of the righteous Caliphs. Its active implementation ensures the survival of Islamic values and prevents moral decay within societies.
Quranic Injunctions: The Divine Command
The Quran repeatedly commands Muslims to enjoin good and forbid evil, considering it a defining trait of the best community. Allah says:
“You are the best nation produced [as an example] for mankind. You enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong and believe in Allah.”
(Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:110)
This verse connects three characteristics, believing in Allah, promoting virtue, and standing against wrongdoing, as inseparable elements of Muslim identity.
Another verse lays out the collective obligation:
“Let there be [arising] from you a nation inviting to [all that is] good, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong, and those will be the successful.”
(Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:104)
Here, Allah calls for the creation of an organized group responsible for moral accountability within society.
Sunnah: The Prophetic Model of Reform
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was the perfect example of commanding good and forbidding evil, both in private counseling and public sermons. In a well-known hadith, he said:
“Whoever among you sees an evil, let him change it with his hand; if he cannot, then with his tongue; and if he cannot, then with his heart, and that is the weakest level of faith.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 49)
This hadith outlines a practical, three-level strategy: using physical means (if within authority), verbal advice (if powerless), or at the very least, internal disapproval. It also implies that ignoring evil without even hating it in the heart may reflect a lack of sincere faith.
Implementation During the Era of the Rightly Guided Caliphs
The Khulafa-e-Rashideen institutionalized this principle at the state level. During the Caliphate of Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA), officials known as Muhtasibs were appointed in marketplaces to regulate ethics, prevent cheating, and stop immoral practices. He would often walk the streets himself to correct wrongdoings.
In the case of Hazrat Ali (RA), the principle was extended to theological debates, where he advised people to avoid extremism in religion and adhere to the path of truth, even in the midst of political conflict.
Scope and Dimensions of the Principle
1. Individual Responsibility
Every Muslim, regardless of their status or level of knowledge, has a responsibility to promote good and oppose wrong within their capacity. It begins with family, friends, and the local community.
2. State-Level Responsibility
In an Islamic government, the ruler and judiciary are bound to enforce laws based on Shariah and moral principles. State mechanisms should discourage injustice, corruption, and immorality while promoting education, charity, and ethical conduct.
3. Social Accountability
Muslims are advised to remind, correct, and support one another in ethical behavior. This is not limited to religious acts but extends to economic justice, honesty in trade, and safeguarding rights.
4. Educational Role
Religious scholars and educators must enjoin good through preaching and teaching, particularly by correcting deviations and spreading authentic knowledge.
Contemporary Relevance
In modern times, the principle of Amr bil Ma’ruf wa Nahi ‘anil Munkar faces several challenges. Social pressure, secular values, and fear of backlash often discourage people from speaking against evil. In many societies, immorality is normalised, while those promoting Islamic ethics are labeled as intolerant or backward.
However, the responsibility remains. In a world of increasing moral confusion, the application of this principle is more urgent than ever. It is not about public shaming or policing people’s private lives. Rather, it is a call for compassionate correction, community improvement, and moral education.
A teacher correcting dishonesty in students, a journalist exposing corruption, or a citizen discouraging bribery are all forms of this sacred duty.
Conditions and Etiquettes of Enjoining Good
Islam does not permit harshness or humiliation in fulfilling this responsibility. The following principles must be observed:
- Wisdom and Gentleness:
The Quran says, “Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction…” (Surah An-Nahl, 16:125) - Knowledge of Right and Wrong:
One must be certain about the matter before speaking or acting. - Avoidance of Greater Harm:
If speaking against wrong causes greater evil or chaos, it may be better to delay or do it privately. - Sincerity of Intent:
The aim should be to please Allah and correct wrong, not to insult or show superiority.
Lessons from Islamic History
- Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) once said in a sermon: “O people, you recite this verse but do not apply it. When people see evil and do not change it, Allah may punish all of them.” Moreover, During the Umayyad period, scholars like Imam Hasan al-Basri fearlessly advised the rulers and reminded them of their duty to rule with justice, even at personal risk.
Critical Analysis: Neglecting the Duty in Today’s Society
Modern Muslim societies are witnessing a dangerous erosion of this principle. In the name of tolerance or fear of being judged, many Muslims no longer feel responsible for correcting wrong. Social media further complicates the issue, where public sin is broadcasted, and criticism is silenced.
Moreover, selective application, targeting some wrongs while ignoring others, creates hypocrisy. For example, condemning immodesty in women’s dress but ignoring corruption, dishonesty, or injustice in business and politics contradicts the Quranic approach.
True Amr bil Ma’ruf requires a balanced, sincere, and comprehensive strategy that addresses both personal piety and societal justice.
Conclusion: A Lifeline for the Muslim Ummah
The principle of Amr bil Ma’ruf wa Nahi ‘anil Munkar is a central lifeline for the spiritual and moral well-being of the Muslim Ummah. Its neglect leads to widespread sin, social decay, and Divine displeasure. Its proper application brings about reform, social harmony, and Divine blessings. Muslims must reclaim this duty with wisdom, patience, and sincerity in their homes, mosques, schools, and governance. Without it, the moral fabric of Islamic society begins to unravel. With it, the Ummah fulfills its Divine role as the best nation, responsible not just for itself but for the moral guidance of all humanity.
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