Judgement Towards Others
The Importance of Not Being Judgemental Towards Others
In our social and spiritual lives, being non-judgemental is key to fostering growth, authenticity, and meaningful relationships. Islam, as a faith rooted in mercy and compassion, emphasises this principle profoundly. Let’s explore what judgement means in both social and Islamic terms, how it impacts individuals and communities, and how we can embody a more compassionate and non-judgemental approach, drawing lessons from the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him, ﷺ).
What is Judgement in Social Terms?
In social terms, judgement refers to forming opinions or making assumptions about others based on their actions, appearances, or choices. While discernment is necessary for decision-making, being overly critical or harsh often creates barriers rather than understanding. Social judgement often stems from biases, insecurities, or societal norms, leading to unfair treatment or exclusion of individuals.
Unfortunately, judgement in social settings can stifle personal growth, erode self-esteem, and pressure individuals to conform rather than embrace their unique paths. When we judge, we fail to appreciate the complexities of someone’s circumstances or the intentions behind their actions.
What is Judgement in Islamic Terms?
"And judge, [O Muhammad], between them by what Allah has revealed and do not follow their inclinations..." [Surah Al-Ma'idah, 5:48]
In Islam, judgement refers to passing conclusions about someone’s faith, intentions, or actions in a manner that only Allah is entitled to. Judging others’ faith, worthiness, or sincerity intrudes on the domain of Allah, who alone knows the state of each heart. In Islam, our role is not to condemn but to advise, guide, and support with kindness and wisdom.
What it does NOT refer to is the social definition of judgement in forming opinions or making assumptions about others based on their actions, appearances, or choices.
Islamic Judgement by the Qur'an: Balancing Justice, Compassion, and Wisdom
Judging by Allah's Book, the Qur'an, is a noble and essential act of upholding justice and truth. However, Islam emphasises that this judgement must always be exercised with fairness, wisdom, and compassion, avoiding harshness or undue severity. The Qur'an and the Sunnah provide clear guidance on the spirit and method of applying divine judgement, underscoring that justice must be coupled with mercy and understanding.
While the Qur'an provides laws and principles for governing human conduct, the application of these laws must reflect the underlying mercy of Allah. Harshness, especially in matters of guiding others, is discouraged. The Qur'an advises the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to deal gently with people:
"So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from around you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in matters." [Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:159]
This verse demonstrates the importance of leniency and mercy when dealing with others, even when conveying Allah's guidance. Being overly harsh can push people away, defeating the purpose of Islamic judgement, which is to bring individuals closer to truth and righteousness.
Islamic judgement requires understanding the situation and applying Allah’s laws in a way that takes context and individual circumstances into account. Wisdom ensures that the divine guidance is applied appropriately and effectively, leading to constructive outcomes rather than harm.
Allah says:
"Call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best. Indeed, your Lord is most knowing of who has strayed from His way, and He is most knowing of who is [rightly] guided." [Surah An-Nahl, 16:125]
The emphasis here on wisdom and good instruction highlights that the goal of Islamic judgement is not to humiliate or condemn but to guide and educate in a manner that invites hearts to Allah.
How Judgement Prevents Growth
Judgement can hinder personal and spiritual growth in several ways:
External Validation over Allah’s Pleasure: People may feel compelled to act or worship to meet societal expectations rather than out of sincere devotion to Allah. This compromises their authenticity in their relationship with Him.
Fear of Being Shamed: Harsh judgement can deter individuals from seeking knowledge or improvement, fearing ridicule or ostracisation.
Lack of Space for Repentance: Judgement leaves little room for people to make mistakes, learn, and grow. It shifts the focus from Allah’s infinite mercy to human harshness.
When individuals act to please others, their intentions may no longer align with sincerity towards Allah. True submission stems from love and devotion to Allah, not the fear of human criticism.
How the Prophet (peace be upon him) Embodied Non-Judgement
The life of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is a beacon of mercy and understanding. A well-known hadith illustrates his approach to non-judgement:
In the hadith of Nasr ibn ‘Aasim that a man among them came to the Prophet ﷺ and he became a Muslim on condition that he would only pray two prayers, and the Prophet ﷺ accepted that from him. [Ahmad]
This hadith highlights the Prophet’s wisdom and understanding of human nature. While the Prophet ﷺ accepted the man's initial condition, it was with the understanding that the man's faith would grow, leading him to eventually observe all obligatory prayers. By refraining from judgement, the Prophet nurtured sincerity and love for Allah in the man’s heart.
Judgement as a Barrier to Guidance
When people feel judged for their choices, they often withdraw rather than engage. This is particularly detrimental when guiding someone towards Islam or helping them strengthen their faith. Harsh words or attitudes can alienate individuals, making them feel unworthy or incapable of attaining Allah’s mercy. Instead, gentle reminders, patience, and unconditional love create an environment where people feel safe to learn, err, and grow.
Creating Space for Mistakes and Accountability
Islam teaches that every individual is accountable to Allah alone:
“No bearer of burdens will bear the burden of another.” [Surah Al-An'am, 6:164]
Our role is not to police others but to guide them with kindness, leaving room for mistakes. By allowing others to err and lovingly reminding them, we enable them to internalise their lessons and grow stronger in their faith.
This approach is particularly important for children. Excessive judgement and shaming can lead to feelings of inadequacy and resentment towards religious practices. Instead, fostering a nurturing and non-judgemental environment helps children develop a sincere and loving relationship with Allah.
The Link Between Judgement, Shame, and Faith
Judgement often breeds shame, which can have long-lasting effects on faith and adherence to religious practices. When people follow Islam out of fear of human criticism rather than love for Allah, their connection to the faith becomes fragile. Shame can drive individuals away from Allah rather than towards Him, making them feel unworthy of His mercy.
How to Cultivate Non-Judgemental Behaviour
Practise Empathy: Strive to understand others’ circumstances and intentions before forming opinions.
Focus on Your Own Accountability: Remember that your primary responsibility is your relationship with Allah.
Advise with Love: Offer reminders with gentleness and wisdom, without imposing.
Reflect on Allah’s Mercy: Just as we seek Allah’s forgiveness, we should extend understanding to others.
Model the Prophet’s Example: Emulate the Prophet’s compassion and patience in your interactions.
Judgement is not ours to pass; it belongs solely to Allah. By adopting a non-judgemental approach, we can create spaces for authentic growth, nurture sincere faith, and embody the mercy that is at the heart of Islam. Let us remind ourselves and others with love, patience, and wisdom, fostering a community rooted in compassion and understanding. As the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught, the key to guiding others is not through criticism but through kindness and mercy.