Mohammad Mozammel Haque

Introduction
Corruption and malicious activities are among the gravest societal evils plaguing the modern world. These practices, which include dishonesty, bribery, injustice, and immorality, wear away the ethical fabric of society and contribute to widespread suffering. While many solutions have been proposed—ranging from legislation to education—none have proven entirely effective in eradicating these deep-rooted problems. From an Islamic perspective, the root cause of corruption lies in the lack of Taqwa—the fear and consciousness of Allah (SWT). This divine awareness acts as an internal moral compass, deterring a person from wrongdoing even in the absence of external oversight.
Here we will see how only the genuine practice of fearing Allah can cleanse an individual of corruption and malicious behavior. Drawing on evidence from the Holy Qur'an, Hadith, and the lives of righteous individuals, we examine how Taqwa serves as the most effective tool for inner reform and societal harmony.
The Concept of Taqwa in Islam
The Arabic word Taqwa is often translated as "fear of Allah," but it encompasses a deeper meaning: it implies being ever-conscious of Allah’s presence and striving to live according to His commands. It is a quality that guards a person against evil and motivates righteous actions.
Allah says in the Holy Qur'an:
“O you who believe! Fear Allah as He should be feared, and die not except in a state of Islam.” (Surah Al-Imran 3:102)
This verse highlights that fearing Allah is not a passive feeling but an active, constant state of mindfulness that influences every decision and action. A person who truly fears Allah refrains from corruption, even when no one else is watching, because they understand that Allah sees everything:
“Indeed, Allah is ever, over you, an Observer.” (Surah An-Nisa 4:1)
The Root of Corruption: Absence of Taqwa
Corruption in all its forms—whether financial, moral, or political—is essentially a betrayal of trust. In Islam, every individual is regarded as a khalifah (vicegerent) on Earth, entrusted with upholding justice, truth, and righteousness. When a person acts in ways that are unjust or malicious, they are failing this divine trust.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBHU) said:
“Every one of you is a shepherd and every one of you is responsible for his flock.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 893)
In this context, a person who fears Allah understands their responsibilities and the accountability that follows in the Hereafter. The absence of this consciousness gives rise to self-interest, greed, and moral decay—qualities that lead directly to corruption.
Qur’anic Teachings against Corruption
The Qur'an strongly condemns corruption and emphasizes that it brings destruction to individuals and societies:
“And do not cause corruption upon the earth after its reformation. And invoke Him in fear and aspiration. Indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good.”
(Surah Al-A’raf 7:56)
This verse indicates that causing corruption is directly opposed to righteousness and invokes the displeasure of Allah. Only those who invoke Him with a true sense of fear and hope can remain on the path of goodness.
Another powerful verse states:
“Indeed, Allah does not like corrupters.” (Surah Al-Qasas 28:77)
The message is clear: corruption is incompatible with divine love and mercy. Therefore, the only way to attain purity and divine favor is through living a life grounded in Taqwa.
Hadiths on the Role of Taqwa in Avoiding Sin
The sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) further reinforce the idea that fearing Allah protects individuals from sin and corruption. He said:
“Fear Allah wherever you are, and follow up a bad deed with a good one which will wipe it out, and behave well towards people.” (Tirmidhi, Hadith 1987)
Here, the Prophet (PBUH) provides a comprehensive moral guideline: the foundation is fear of Allah, followed by repentance and good behavior. All three are interconnected and stem from a heart that is spiritually aware.
Another hadith states:
“There is a piece of flesh in the body; if it is sound, the whole body is sound, and if it is corrupt, the whole body is corrupt. That piece is the heart."
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 52)
When the heart is filled with Taqwa, it becomes sound and prevents the limbs from engaging in sinful acts. A heart devoid of this divine fear is susceptible to corruption.
Real-Life Examples from Islamic History
The early generations of Muslims offer timeless examples of how Taqwa leads to incorruptible character. One such example is Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA), the second Caliph of Islam, who was renowned for his justice and piety.
It is narrated that Umar (RA) would often patrol the streets of Medina at night to ensure the well-being of his people. His fear of being accountable before Allah made him one of the most just rulers in history. He once said:
“If a mule were to stumble on the road from Iraq to Medina, I would be afraid that Allah would hold me accountable for not having paved the road for it.”
This is the level of responsibility and integrity that stems from fearing Allah.
Similarly, Yusuf (AS), when seduced by the wife of the Aziz of Egypt, resisted her despite being alone and tempted. His response:
“I seek the refuge of Allah! Indeed, He is my Master, who has made good my residence. Indeed, wrongdoers will not succeed.” (Surah Yusuf 12:23)
Yusuf (AS)'s fear of Allah was the sole reason he resisted sin when no human eye could witness his actions. His story is a testament to how Taqwa shields a person from immorality and injustice.
Modern Application of Taqwa in Combating Corruption
In today’s world, accountability mechanisms like audits, laws, and surveillance are implemented to deter corrupt practices. Yet, corruption remains rampant across the globe, particularly in countries with weak spiritual foundations. What is missing is the internal regulator—the fear of Allah.
If every individual, especially those in positions of power, operated with a sense of divine accountability, corruption would be significantly reduced. A person who knows that Allah is All-Seeing and All-Knowing will avoid even hidden forms of dishonesty.
Moreover, Taqwa fosters social justice, trust, and ethical leadership, all of which are essential for a corruption-free society. A community built on the values of Taqwa will naturally uphold honesty, fairness, and compassion.
Taqwa as the Path to Salvation
Fearing Allah not only prevents a person from engaging in corruption in this world, but also leads to salvation in the Hereafter. Allah says:
“Whoever fears Allah – He will make for him a way out and provide for him from where he does not expect.” (Surah At-Talaq 65:2–3)
This promise of divine assistance, both materially and spiritually, serves as a powerful incentive for believers to develop and maintain Taqwa. It’s a reminder that righteousness is not only morally correct but also beneficial in the long run.
In conclusion, the fear of Allah—Taqwa—is the most effective deterrent against corruption and malicious activity. While external laws and societal pressures can discourage unethical behavior to an extent, they cannot reform the heart. Only Taqwa instills a lasting sense of moral responsibility that governs a person's actions at all times and in all places. The Qur'an and Hadith consistently highlight the transformative power of fearing Allah. From prophets to companions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), history is replete with examples of individuals who remained upright solely because of their deep consciousness of Allah. In a world searching for ethical reform, the message of Islam is clear: True and lasting change begins with the heart—and the heart that fears Allah will never permit corruption.

The writer is a Dean (In-charge), Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, &
Associate Professor, Department of English
Northern University Bangladesh . He can be reached at Email: mozambiu@yahoo.com