Al-Balagh Foundation The Definition of Society Society is a...

Al-Balagh Foundation The Definition of Society Society is a human organization which is composed of individuals, and joined with each other through ideological links and limited vital interest. This is the general definition of society. As for the links and relationships in Islamic society, they are grounded in Islam. Thus, we can define Islamic society as follows: "It is a political group of people residing in a certain area of the earth. It believes in Islam.

Its relations and its life regime are based on Islam." Therefore Islamic society is ideological. It has its own qualities that distinguish it from other societies. It is distinguished by its beliefs, its values, its ethics, its laws, its life regulations, its behavior, and its customs.

The Holy Qur'an has summarized these qualities as follows: "(This is) Allah's coloring and who is better than Allah in colouring; while Him (alone) do we worship." Holy Qur'an (Baqara 2:138) Why did Social Life Grow? The growth of society and social life is among the basic matters which must be scientifically studied. For such a study will help us understand the reason why society and social life grew.

To understand the Islamic theory concerning the growth of society and social life, we must consider carefully the Qur'anic verses that talk about these matters. Meanwhile these Qur'anic verses urge man to build human society based on firm foundations and principles. Among them are: Allah, the Exalted, said: "O people!

Verily We have created you of a male and a female, and made you in nations and tribes, that you may recognise each other; Verily the most honored of you with Allah is the one of you who guards (himself) the most (against evil), ..." Holy Qur'an (Hujurat, 49: 113) He said: "And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves, mates that you may dwell (inclined) unto them, and caused between you love and compassion: Verily in this are signs for a people who reflect." Holy Qur'an (Rum, 30:21) He, the Glorified, said: "What!

do they distribute the mercy of your Lord? (It is) We Who did distribute among them (even) their livelihood in the life of this world, and We did raise some of them above the others in rank, so that some of them may take the others in subjection; and the mercy of your Lord is better that whatever they hoard." Holy Qur'an (Zukhruf, 43: 32) Studing and analyzing these verses show us the reasons why society grew.