As Clear as Day

As Clear as Day

1987 10 October 15 As Clear as Day (258) It is not only judges who have to decide the rights and wrongs of human affairs, but individuals in all walks of life. Sometimes this is extremely difficult because perhaps not all of the facts are readily available or concerned individuals have suppressed vital information. Sometimes the person who has to settle a dispute is of weak and

Wavering judgement. What then should be done in such a dilemma? The principle laid down by Abu Moosa is perhaps the most helpful in such cases. One of the leading companions of the Prophet, Abu Moosa was appointed Governor of Aden during the Prophet’s lifetime. Then, during the rule of the second caliph Umer, he was given the governorship of Basra. Having held such high and responsible positions in which it was his duty to pass judgements every day, which could have far-reaching consequences, affecting the lives of innumerable individuals, he laid down a principle, which is applicable not only to judges but to every human being. He said that a Qazi should not pass judgement until the truth was “as clear as day” to him. When this statement was reported to caliph Umer, he heartily endorsed it, saying that this should be the policy of each and every Qazi.

We can most easily spare ourselves the mischief of others by sparing them our mischief.

If you do not sow seeds at the proper time, there will be no crops to reap at harvest-time.

Do not rail at the darkness. Light a candle and the darkness will of itself disappear.