Dr. Bushra Hanoon Mohsen – College of Islamic Sciences – University of Karbala
The topic of values has received significant attention from specialists in the fields of philosophy, sociology, ethics, and education. Values are considered the main guiding force for an individual’s behavior within the family and society. The loss of values, lack of knowledge about them, or neglecting their adherence leads an individual to engage in random actions that ultimately result in nothing but confusion. Individuals and societies need a value system to rely on because it plays a crucial role in the integration and cohesion of the social structure, as well as in preserving identity and belonging.
In the modern and contemporary era, the Islamic nation has suffered from the moral decay and disintegration that afflict advanced societies and civilizations. This is due to its deviation from Islamic values and authentic Arab values. Those who study the value system in Islam find that it has integrated characteristics that distinguish it from other religions, both divine and non-divine. It is a comprehensive system of beliefs, acts of worship, dealings, legislations, moral guidance, public etiquette, and refined human conduct.
Islam has placed significant emphasis on ethics and values. It made nurturing human character and development one of its main objectives. Islamic education focuses on the individual’s behavior with themselves and with others. It encourages the performance of acts of worship, the purification of the heart, soul, and limbs, and provides the moral motivation that leads to cohesive character development. Through this integrated value system, human life is organized, culminating in the creation of a vibrant community founded on solid values that protect it from the corruption and evils it is at risk of adopting as life’s guiding principles.
In order to build a cohesive, value-driven society, we must return to the human heritage in general, and to Islamic heritage in particular. Islamic heritage is rich with the teachings of religious and moral educators, with the Prophet of Mercy (peace be upon him and his family) and Imam Ali (peace be upon him) at the forefront. They were exemplars from whom humanity can derive all the values embodied in their words and actions. They became models to be followed, not only for the Islamic nation but for the global and human community as a whole.
