Approaching the West — Page 179
A pproaching the West—179 O ye who believe! be steadfast in the cause of All ā h, bearing witness in equity; and not let a people’s enmity incite you to act otherwise than with justice. Be always just, that is nearer to righteousness. And fear All ā h. Surely All ā h is aware of what you do. (5:9) The tenth commandment forbids the urge of covetousness, fostering of desires in one’s heart that may lead to overt actions: Neither shall thou desire thy neighbor’s wife; neither shalt thou covet thy neighbor’s house, his field, or his manservant, or his maidservant, his ox, or his ass, or any thing that is thy neighbor’s. The Holy Qur’ ā n broadens the scope of these prohibitions and does not keep them limited between the neighbors only. The Holy Qur’ ā n teaches not to covet things that may belong to any man or woman. If you keep away from the more grievous of the things which you are forbidden, We will remove from you your minor evils and admit you to a place of great honor. And covet not that whereby All ā h has made some of you excel others. Men shall have a share of that which they have earned, and women a share that which they have earned. And ask All ā h of His bounty. Surely, All ā h has perfect knowledge of all things. (4:32-33) Here, along with the prohibition of covetousness in general, the believer is instructed to pray to God Who is most bountiful and has the power to bestow His favors even in a greater measure. God’s bounty and grace are unlimited. To have vain desires in one’s heart is a work of Satan.