Real Revolution — Page 72
72 were not subject to hanger and thirst. The fact is that this verse lays down the basic duties of a government as conceived by the Islamic point of view, namely, that it should create channels for useful employment of the people placed under its care, should look to the fundamental needs of those not able to do work of any kind, arrange for dependable supplies of water, and furnish shelter against the inclemencies of weather. In other words, four duties devolve upon a government: to meet the needs of its people for food, water, clothing and housing; these duties having been clearly set forth in this verse of the Holy Quran where the benefits of the new system are expounded for Adam. If people protested against the new order, Adam was directed to explain to them the advantage it would bring. If they submitted to it, they would be placed in a condition where they would not ever have to go without food they would not have to go about naked in the sun and rain; supplies of water would be assured when needed; and they would have houses to live in and rest. Evidently, if a government made sure of these four things, it would have to be adjudged one of the best even according to modern standards. . Adam's people were thus told that restrictions upon individual freedom and action were no doubt irksome, but they were in the best interests of the group, for they would enable the new social set up