Surah Al-A'raf — Verse 85

Word Meanings:

• Madayan (Madyan): The people of Madyan, a tribe descended from Madyan, the son of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), peace be upon him. The city was named after him.
• Bakhs (بخس): To diminish, defraud, or give less than what is due.
• Iflah (إصلاح): The state of righteousness and justice established through the messages of the prophets.
• Baiyinah (بينة): A clear, undeniable proof or evidence.

Tafsir (Explanation):

And indeed, We sent to the people of Madyan their brother Shu'ayb, peace be upon him. He was called the "Khatib al-Anbiya" (the Orator of the Prophets) due to the eloquence and wisdom with which he addressed his people. He said to them: "O my people, worship Allah alone — you have no deity worthy of worship besides Him. A clear proof has come to you from your Lord confirming the truth of what I call you to. So give full measure and full weight, and do not defraud people of their due rights, and do not spread corruption in the land after it has been set right."

Shu'ayb's message was twofold: first, the correction of faith — calling them to pure monotheism (Tawhid), freeing them from the shackles of idolatry and false worship. Second, the correction of social conduct — commanding justice in trade and dealings, and prohibiting all forms of cheating, fraud, and exploitation.

The command to "give full measure and full weight" is a profound call to integrity in all human transactions. It encompasses not just physical measurements in trade, but every interaction where rights are exchanged — honesty in business, fairness in contracts, and sincerity in promises. The prohibition against "defrauding people of their things" extends to all forms of injustice, whether through deception, manipulation, or outright theft.

The phrase "do not spread corruption in the land after it has been set right" reminds us that the earth was created in a state of balance and goodness, and the prophets came to establish justice and righteousness. Corruption — whether through disbelief, oppression, or moral decay — disrupts this divine order and brings harm to all.

Shu'ayb concluded: "That is better for you, if you are believers." This is a beautiful reminder that righteousness is not a burden but a blessing. Justice, honesty, and faith bring peace to the heart, prosperity to society, and success in both this world and the Hereafter. The path of Allah is always the path of what is truly best for humanity.

Da'wah Reflection:

This verse carries a timeless message for every Muslim and every seeker of truth. It teaches us that true faith (Iman) is not merely a declaration of the tongue but a comprehensive way of life that transforms how we deal with others. When we give full measure and weight — when we are honest in our business, fair in our judgments, and just in our relationships — we are not just following a rule; we are embodying the beauty of Islam.

Imagine a society where everyone gives full measure, where no one cheats or exploits another, where corruption is replaced by integrity. This is the society Islam envisions — a society of mutual trust, compassion, and justice. This is the path to true success, both individually and collectively.

Allah reminds us that this path is "better for you" — better for your peace of mind, better for your family, better for your community, and better for your eternal life. So let us embrace this beautiful call, purify our hearts with faith, and adorn our actions with honesty and justice. For in doing so, we draw closer to Allah and become beacons of light in a world that desperately needs it.