ABSTRACT
The Qur’an presents itself as a universal ethical code for mankind, in sharp contrast to the tribal particularism of pre-Islamic Arab codes. It presents a conceptual and normative scheme for both socio-political ethics and the duties and virtues of individual believers. The values, norms and commands revealed in the Qur’an transform select pre-Islamic ones while also introducing a normative revolution. Such pre-Islamic values as generosity, courage, loyalty, veracity and forbearance are given Islamic validation by transforming them into virtues which believers are commanded to cultivate in the service of Islam within the limits set down by God. For example, the Qur’an praises generosity in the giving of charity, while condemning both profligacy and spending of one’s wealth out of vanity and the desire for praise. Similarly, the pre-Islamic value of absolute in-group loyalty (wala¯’) was transformed by the more complex ethical terrain of the new religion. Loyalty to family and tribal kin was not only expanded to the community of believers (which trumped more particular loyalties) but was also constrained by other Islamic commitments. Believers were commanded to not violate oaths or transgress against Divine commands, even in the service of communal interests. Loyalty within socio-political contexts thus becomes subsumed within the general obligation of loyalty to the covenant with one’s Creator, which the Qur’an indicates is required by man’s recognition that he is created by a sovereign, autonomous God.
