What does it mean to be human and to be treated as one? To be human is to possess dignity, and the right to live in peace. Human dignity is the essence that defines us, yet it is exponentially threatened in today’s world. Every human being deserves to be treated fairly, to have their rights respected, and to live free from fear and deprivation. No human being should be denied their basic needs for water, food, shelter, and medical treatment as the Palestinians are. When we deny others their needs and dignity, we not only wound them, but we also wound humanity itself.
Even those who have committed crimes are granted certain rights under the law, showcasing their fundamental human worth. How much more, then, should we protect the innocent—the civilians, the children, the women, and the elderly who continue to suffer within their land under oppression and illegal occupation? Their endless suffering and pain remind us of the reality when humanity loses its sense of justice and compassion.
In Islam, the sanctity of human life and dignity is highly regarded, as highlighted in Surah Al-Tin (95:4), when Allah SWT declares: “Indeed, We created humans in the best form.” This short yet powerful verse underscores that humans are created with purpose and perfection.
The noble status of humankind is further emphasised in Surah Al-Isra’ (17:70): “And We have certainly honoured the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.”
These verses teach us that every human being, regardless of background or origin, carries an intrinsic worth bestowed by the Creator. Furthermore, the blessings of the land and sea, which are the very resources we depend on, were made to serve humankind. With such honour comes immense responsibility, that is, to uphold justice, to protect others, and to preserve life and dignity for all.
As khalifah (stewards/vicegerents) on this earth, humans bear a divine trust (amanah) to protect the planet and all of its inhabitants. This important role requires wisdom, empathy, and a great commitment to moral integrity. Humans are gifted with intellect and conscience to think, contemplate, and decide between right and wrong. The duty as khalifah extends beyond governance and policy. It is a daily moral responsibility of every individual. Each act of justice, each word of truth, and each expression of kindness contributes to protecting the moral fabric that binds our global communities together.
Civilisations throughout history have also been built upon these ethical foundations shaped by social values, religious principles, and moral conduct that form the basis of a civilised and just society. When these foundations crumble, the consequences can be seen in the forms of wars, environmental degradation, corruption, and the erosion of empathy.
Protecting human dignity is not the sole responsibility of governments or international bodies. It starts with individuals who refuse to stay silent in the face of injustice and stand together in solidarity. Each one of us can make a difference by choosing compassion over apathy, understanding over hatred, and justice over indifference.
Prominent climate activist, Greta Thunberg recently voiced a sentiment that resonates deeply with this humanitarian crisis. Speaking about the plight of the oppressed, she said, “I’m scared of a world that has seemingly lost all sense of humanity.” Her words capture the heart of the problem: a world that is growing numb to suffering, forgetting that humanity is bound together by shared values of care and conscience that transcends religion, culture and geography. Selfless activists and volunteers from more than 40 countries, including Malaysia, who were involved in the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) mission, for example, are a testament that humanity is still alive.
Humanity is created in the best form, not only in body but also in spirit. Our ability to reason, to be compassionate, and to act with integrity are divine gifts that must be harnessed for good. When we defend human dignity, we honour that divine trust. But when we ignore injustice or are complicit in the suffering of others, we betray that divine trust as mentioned by the companion of the Prophet, Saidina Ali Ibn Abi Talib RA: “Injustice will continue to exist, not because of the abundance of bad people, but because of the silence of good people.”
Hence, protecting human dignity is a survival imperative. Societies that lose respect for life and compassion for others will inevitably fall into destruction. As individuals and as a nation, we must continue to uphold justice, nurture empathy, and champion the protection of human life in all its forms against atrocity and terror. For it is through the preservation of human dignity that we can truly save humanity.
