Translation:
The witnesses must not refuse when they are called up (either to witness or to testify later on). Do not neglect to document it in writing whether a small or large trans- action, including the time when (such debt) is due. This is more equitable in God’s eyes and ensures testimony to be confirmed and keeps you from doubts. But if it is ready merchandise that you exchange by hand to hand, it is not necessary that you write it down.
(But in general), have witnesses when you sell one to another. Let there be no harm done to the writer or to the witnesses. But if you do such harm, then it is a sign of trans- gression on your part. (But you are to) keep your duty to God, and God teaches you (on how to keep your duty and what these duties are). God (truly) knows all things.157
Interpretation:
157 Another important guidance is that men and women who are capable and available should not refuse to be the scribes or witnesses for others, and if and when they are called upon to testify or validate a document, they should not refuse. This is a service to our fellow men, and God commands that we have an obligation to the person needing our help, and this obligation is similar in nature to our obligation and responsibility to God. In addition, doing harm to a witness or obstructing a witness’ work by threat or bribe or any other connivance is considered a transgression, similar to how disbelief is considered a transgression against God. Unfortunately, this is most commonly displayed in many Muslim countries and by corrupt leadership in
communities, politics, and businesses.
Reflection:
It is important to note to what extent Islam has gone to create a rigorous regimen for our day-to-day interactions. It is this innovative and sincere attempt to understand the human condition and to apply with rigor the various rules and regulations that improved the workings of various aspects of social and commercial interactions that led to the unprecedented rise and glory of the Muslims for a thousand years as a civilization. This also inspired subsequent civilizations to rise by learning the key message of human equality and individual responsibility. While early Muslims created societies more successful than competing societies through innovation and legal systems, today’s Muslims and Muslim countries have come to a screeching halt in such thought leadership and innovation.
Action:
There is a serious lack of commitment in regard to this important human transaction, and, as a result, frequent infighting, misunderstandings, and conflicts are occurring in Muslim societies. Islam is a comprehensive code of conduct for both spiritual and material success and well-being, and one has to harmonize and put equal emphasis on both to be truly successful and lead in our contemporary world.