Islam and the Right-Wing Agenda: A Paradoxical Relationship
Does this passage sound more left or right to you?
Respect and Honesty as Pillars of Islamic Conduct
According to Islamic teachings, respect and honesty—regardless of an individual's religion, ethnicity, gender, or social status—are foundational to human interaction. Respect and honour all human beings irrespective of their religion, colour, race, sex, language, status, property, birth, or profession/job (al-Isra 17:70). This verse underscores the importance of treating everyone with dignity and equality.
Another key aspect is Talk straight to the point without any ambiguity or deception (al-Ahzab 33:70), emphasizing the need for clarity and transparency in communication. The Choose the best words to speak and say them in the best possible way (al-Baqarah 2:83) further reinforces the importance of effective and respectful dialogue.
Moderation and Humility in Speech and Action
Islamic teachings promote Do not shout. Speak politely keeping your voice low (Luqman 31:19) and Always speak the truth. Shun words that are deceitful and ostentatious (al-Hajj 22:30). These principles encourage respectful and honest communication, away from exaggeration or deceit.
A related theme is avoiding Do not confound truth with falsehood (al-Baqarah 2:42), which highlights the importance of ethical discourse and integrity in speech. This further strengthens the principle of clear and honest communication.
The Ethics of Moral Responsibility and Justice
Islamic ethics also stress the importance of When you voice an opinion be just even if it is against a relative (al-Anam 6:152). This suggests a commitment to justice over personal bias or family loyalty. Additionally, Do not be a bragging boaster (Luqman 31:18) underscores the value of humility and forthright modesty.
Behaving with Humility and sedateness in public (al-Furqan 25:63) further emphasizes the need for a balanced demeanor that reflects inner peace and composure. Similarly, the advice to Keep your gazes lowered devoid of any lecherous leers and salacious stares (an-Nur 24:30-31) promotes self-control and respect for others.
Charity, Kindness, and Community Bonds
Islam also promotes a moral and charitable society through principles of Treat kindly your parents, relatives, the orphans, and those who have been left alone in the society (An Nisa 4:36). This section emphasizes the importance of nurturing familial and community relationships, particularly with those who are vulnerable or in need.
The call for compassion extends to Be generous to the needy, the homeless, and those who reach you in a destitute condition (An Nisa 4:36). It also stresses the importance of cooperation in Good deeds and not evil and bad matters (al-Maidah 5:2), fostering a community that supports and uplifts one another.
Ethical Commitments and Social Responsibilities
The teachings further highlight the need for ethical integrity in one's conduct, such as Do not expect a return for your good behaviour not even thanks (al_Insan 76:9), promoting selfless actions. This also extends to one's social and professional responsibilities, like seeking provision through Fair endeavours (al-Ankabut 29:17 al-Baqarah 2:188), and fulfilling one's commitments to maintain trust and reliability.
Do not squander your wealth senselessly (al-Isra 17:26) and Fulfil your promises and commitments (al-Isra 17:34) emphasize the importance of responsible and ethical use of resources and commitments, respectively.
In conclusion, while often perceived as diametrically opposed, these Islamic teachings align closely with the principles of a moderate right-wing agenda, which values honesty, respect, and ethical behavior. Adherence to such ethics fosters positive social interactions and communal harmony, reflecting a moral and just society that respects the divine code and values human dignity and equality.