Shame and Conduct
📖Sahih al-Bukhari 3483
Narrated Abu Masud `Uqba: The Prophet ï·º said, “One of the sayings of the prophets which the people have got, is: ‘If you do not feel ashamed, then do whatever you like.'”
Description:
This Hadith is a profound reminder of the role shame (or modesty) plays in our lives. The Prophet ﷺ highlights that shame is a natural deterrent against immoral or inappropriate actions. If someone lacks shame in their actions, they are free to do whatever they like, regardless of whether it is wrong or harmful to themselves or others. However, in Islam, shame is not just about social consequences, but a moral compass that helps us maintain decency, righteousness, and respect for others and Allah’s commandments, This saying reflects human nature: shame prevents us from acting on all our whims and desires because we understand that certain actions are not just harmful to society but also against the divine laws. When shame is absent, people might fall into corruption and indulge in behaviors that are against ethical and spiritual standards.
Freedom to Do Whatever, Even Shameful:
While Islam promotes a high standard of moral conduct, this Hadith also reflects a basic truth of human behavior: People are free to do anything — including things that are shameful, if they choose to do so. It is a warning about the consequences of lack of shame, and how it can lead to an individual being unaccountable for their actions.
Examples of shameful acts:
- Dishonesty: Lying without any remorse or shame.
- Stealing: Taking what does not belong to you, even if it’s unnoticed by others.
- Disrespecting parents: Acting in ways that harm or disrespect parents.
- Harmful habits: Engaging in actions like substance abuse or excessive greed.
- Dishonoring the dignity of others: Using hurtful language or actions to degrade others.
Qur’anic Context:
Islam acknowledges freedom of choice in religion and action, but it also stresses that those who act without shame will face the consequences in the Hereafter.
📖Quran 2:256
“There shall be no compulsion in religion, for the right path has become distinct from the wrong.”
This verse emphasizes that freedom of belief is a fundamental right in Islam. People are free to choose their beliefs, but the moral compass guides believers to act righteously.
📖Quran 16:106
“Whoever denies Allah after his belief – except one who is forced while his heart is at rest in faith – but whoever opens his chest to disbelief, upon them is wrath from Allah, and for them is a great punishment.”
This highlights that freedom of belief is protected, but those who choose disbelief freely, without shame or remorse, face the consequences.
📖 Quran 3:85
“And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam – it will never be accepted from him, and he, in the Hereafter, will be among the losers.”
While the freedom to choose a religion exists, Islam reminds that true salvation is only through following the right path.
Conclusion:
The Hadith encourages us to be conscious of our shame and moral responsibility, while also highlighting that in this life, people are free to act according to their choices – even if it means engaging in shameful or immoral actions. However, these actions will have consequences in this life and in the Hereafter, and true freedom lies in choosing the righteous path that pleases Allah.