Islam_in_Focus_text

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parentage. In the Qur an and Traditions of Muhammad there
is a constant reminder of this important fact, the unity of hu-
manity by nature and origin. This is to eliminate racial pride
and claims to national or ethnic superiority, and pave the
way for genuine brotherhood (Qur'an, 4:1 ; 7:189; 49:10-13).
The unity of humanity is not only in its origin but also in
its ultimate aims. According to Islam, the final goal of hu-
manity is God. From Him we come, for Him we live and to
Him we shall all return. In fact, the sole purpose of creation
as described by the Qur'an is to worship God and serve His
Cause, the cause of truth and justice, of love and mercy, of
brotherhood and morality (Qur'an, 51:56-58).
On this unity of origin and ultimate goal as the back-
ground of the social life in Islam, the relations between the
individual and society are based. The role of the individual
is complementary to that of society. Between the two there
are social solidarity and mutual responsibility. The individu-
al is responsible for the common welfare and prosperity of
his society. This responsibility is not only to the society but
also to God. In this way the individual works with a sound
social-mindedness and a genuine feeling of inescapable re-
sponsibility. It is his role to do the utmost for his society and
contribute to its common welfare. On the other hand, the so-
ciety is also responsible to God for the welfare of the indi-
vidual. When the individual is able he is the contributor and
society is the beneficiary. In return he is entitled to security
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