Islam and Human Rights — Page 106
Isl am and Hum an R ights 106 emphasizing the moral re sponsibility of all concerned- the individual, society, and the State. Article 12 This article falls in the same broad category as Articles 9-11, only it touches upon matters that concern each individ ual more intimately, being more personal in their nature. Islam goes further than any other system in safeguarding these, not only vis-a-vis the State, but also vis-a-vis other citizens. “O ye who believe, enter not houses other than your own until you have asked leave and saluted the inmates thereof; that is better for you that you may be heedful. If you find no one therein, do not enter them till you are given permission. If it be said to you, ‘Go back’. then go back, that is purer for you. Allah knows well what you do. But it is no offence on your part to enter uninhabited houses wherein are your goods. Allah knows that which you disclose and that which you conceal” (24:28-30). Muslim jurisprudence recognizes and gives effect through legal procedures, to what is known as the easement of priv acy. After a prescribed period, premises used for residence acquire the right of enjoyment of undisturbed privacy against any structure proposed