Surah Ash-Shu'ara — Verse 183

Word Meanings:

• Tabkhasū (تَبْخَسُوا): To diminish, reduce, or defraud people of their rights, whether in weights, measures, or any other entitlement.
• Taʿthaw (تَعْثَوْا): To spread corruption and mischief excessively, going beyond bounds in causing harm and disorder.
• Mufsidīn (مُفْسِدِينَ): Those who actively engage in corruption and destruction upon the earth.

Explanation of the Verse:

This noble verse is part of the counsel given by Prophet Shuʿayb (peace be upon him) to his people, the inhabitants of Madyan, who were notorious for cheating in trade by giving short measure and short weight. After commanding them to perfect their weights and scales with justice, he adds this decisive instruction: "And do not deprive people of their things" — meaning, do not take away anything that rightfully belongs to others, whether in trade, loans, wages, or any form of transaction. Every person has rights, and to diminish them — even by a small amount — is a grave injustice that Allah has forbidden.

Then he says: "And do not spread corruption in the land" — this is a comprehensive prohibition against all forms of mischief, including murder, highway robbery, intimidation of people, acts of violence, and every sin that disrupts the peace and harmony of society. The word *ʿuthuww* (عُثُوّ) implies going to extremes in wrongdoing, so the verse warns against both minor and major forms of corruption, urging believers to be agents of reform rather than sources of destruction.

A Call to Reflection and Action:

Dear reader, ponder how beautifully Islam organizes human life! It commands fairness in the smallest transactions — a gram of wheat or a drop of milk — and simultaneously forbids the greatest crimes that tear societies apart. This verse teaches us that Islam is a complete way of life: it polishes the soul to fear Allah in every dealing, and it protects the community from chaos and harm. When you give full measure and respect others' rights, you are not merely being honest — you are worshipping Allah and building a society of trust and mercy. And when you avoid corruption, you are safeguarding the earth that Allah has made a place of peace for His servants. Let this verse be a mirror for your daily conduct: in your business, your family, your neighborhood, and your nation. Be among those who establish justice and spread goodness, for Allah loves the doers of good, and He has promised the righteous a great reward in this life and the Hereafter.