How to Elevate the Standards of Life as a Muslim: Living with Al-Hakam
In a world filled with chaos, uncertainty, and moral dilemmas, many people search for a standard by which they can live a life of true success and fulfillment. As women, we often find ourselves navigating countless societal expectations—sometimes without realizing that we have unconsciously followed these standards at the expense of our deen. But should sacrificing our faith ever be an option? Islam provides us with divine guidance, offering the highest ethical and moral framework to lead a life of righteousness and balance. Among the many beautiful attributes of Allah, Al-Hakam (The Just, The Ultimate Judge) stands as a powerful reminder of how justice and wisdom should shape our lives.
In the book Reflecting on the Names of Allah, it is explained that the root of Al-Hakam (ح ك م) means 'to prevent' or 'to restrain'. A ruler is called a hakim because he prevents injustice, ensures fairness, and makes judgments in all affairs. Al-Hakam is the One whose judgment is absolute, free from error, bias, or injustice. His decrees are rooted in perfect wisdom, ensuring that every ruling is precise and purposeful.
As human beings, we often struggle to make the right choices, navigate challenging situations, and maintain fairness in our dealings. However, by internalizing the divine attribute of Al-Hakam, we can elevate our standards in life—ensuring that our decisions, relationships, and actions reflect justice, wisdom, and integrity.
Understanding Al-Hakam: The Ultimate Standard of Justice
To elevate our standards in life, we must first understand what it truly means to live under the guidance of Al-Hakam, the One who judges with absolute wisdom and fairness. Al-Hakam is not just any judge—He is the ultimate source of justice, ensuring that everything in existence is governed by divine balance and truth. Unlike human judges, who may be influenced by personal biases, limited knowledge, or external pressures, Allah’s rulings are perfect, absolute, and free from error.
Allah reminds us in the Quran:
"And Allah judges with truth, while those they invoke besides Him judge not with anything. Indeed, it is Allah who is the Hearing, the Seeing." (Quran 40:20)
Living by the principle of Al-Hakam goes beyond simply avoiding wrongdoing. It means actively striving to uphold the truth, seeking wisdom before making judgments, and holding ourselves accountable. It influences not only how we treat others but also how we govern ourselves, making us more conscious of our responsibilities as servants of Allah and members of society.
We have been commanded to strive. Indeed, Allah says in the Qur’an: “And there is not for man except that [good] for which he strives. And that his effort is going to be seen, then he will be recompensed for it with the fullest recompense” [ Q.S An-Najm: 39-41]
By embracing this divine attribute, we can rise above worldly pressures and lead a life of excellence, fairness, and unwavering faith.
Asmaul Husna
The Flaws of Human Judgment vs. The Perfection of Al-Hakam
As humans, our sense of justice is often flawed. We make decisions based on emotions, personal interests, or incomplete knowledge.
Sometimes, we rush to judge others, assuming we understand their circumstances, yet we fail to see the full picture. Other times, we might struggle with self-judgment, being too harsh on ourselves, or justifying our mistakes. But Al-Hakam reminds us that true justice is rooted in wisdom, patience, and seeking the truth before making conclusions.
Allah says in the Quran:
"And follow what is revealed to you and be patient until Allah will judge. And He is the best of judges." (Quran 10:109)
This verse teaches us a crucial lesson: rather than rushing into judgments, we must trust in Allah’s wisdom and timing. He is the ultimate judge, and His decrees are always just, even when we don’t immediately understand them.
Internalizing Al-Hakam in Our Lives
Living with the understanding of Al-Hakam means adopting a mindset of fairness, wisdom, and patience in every aspect of life. This applies to:
- Personal Accountability: Holding ourselves accountable for our actions and ensuring that our decisions align with justice and truth. We should always reflect on whether our actions and decisions align with our faith. No matter what we do, we should constantly remind ourselves that our efforts are for the sake of Allah.
- Decision-Making: Striving to make informed and fair choices, whether in personal matters, work, or social interactions. In Islam, when we feel confused about making a decision, Allah teaches us to perform Istikhara prayer, continuously make du'a, and sincerely ask for His guidance in making the right choice.
- Dealing with Others: Avoiding harsh judgments, giving people the benefit of the doubt, and ensuring that we treat everyone with fairness and kindness. It is not our place to judge others. Remember, Allah is Al-Hakam, the ultimate judge. Instead, strive to see the good in people.
Trusting Allah’s Plan: Accepting that Allah’s rulings—whether they come in the form of trials, delays, or unexpected outcomes—are always for our ultimate good. Having trust in His timing, in His Qadar is one of the basic tenets of the Islamic faith is belief in ‘divine determination (qadar), both in its good and its evil aspects’ [Muslim]
Elevating Personal Standards with Al-Hakam
Living with the awareness of Al-Hakam means striving for excellence in our personal lives by aligning our actions, decisions, and character with justice and wisdom. It requires us to continuously evaluate whether we are upholding fairness, integrity, and accountability in everything we do. When we embody Al-Hakam, we don’t just seek justice in the world around us—we also apply it to ourselves by setting high moral and ethical standards.
1. Practicing Self-Reflection & Accountability
The first step in elevating our personal standards is to regularly evaluate our actions. We often judge others easily, but how often do we judge ourselves? Islam teaches us to hold ourselves accountable before we are held responsible in the Hereafter. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
"The wise one is he who takes account of himself and does noble deeds to benefit him after death, and the foolish one is he who follows his desires and merely hopes in Allah." [Tirmidhi]
Many people ask, "How do I know what I’m supposed to do?" With so much happening in the world, it’s natural for us as humans to constantly question our goals—both in this dunya and the Hereafter.
As Muslims, we can find clarity by understanding our religious obligations, seeking advice from those with wisdom, and carefully considering both opportunities and potential challenges before making decisions about our lives. Ultimately, what matters most is not just the outcome but the intentions and choices we make along the way, as we will be held accountable for every step we take before Allah
To implement this in daily life:
- Engage in daily self-reflection, asking: Did I act justly today? Was I fair in my dealings? Did I make decisions with wisdom?
- Repent for mistakes and seek forgiveness from Allah and those we may have wronged.
Make improvements, ensuring that each day is better than the last in terms of personal growth and moral conduct.
2. Upholding Integrity & Honesty in All Aspects of Life
Integrity is at the heart of living justly. As Muslims, our words and actions should reflect truthfulness, sincerity, and fairness. Unfortunately, many people compromise honesty in work, relationships, and personal dealings due to external pressures or personal gain. However, when we live with the consciousness of Al-Hakam, we understand that true success comes from righteousness, not deception.
Allah says:
"O you who believe! Fear Allah and be with those who are true (in word and deed)." (Quran 9:119)
Practical ways to uphold integrity:
- Be truthful in speech and actions, even when it’s difficult. Be truthful in your words and actions, even when it’s difficult. From a psychological perspective, lying often leads to more lies, creating a cycle that can be hard to escape. Over time, this can take away your inner peace. But when you choose honesty, you cultivate sincerity, trust, and a sense of calm in your life.
- Avoid dishonesty in work and business—no cutting corners, no deceit, no unfair dealings. People will appreciate you more when you are honest.
- Keep promises and commitments, as they reflect a person’s sincerity and reliability.
When we are just in our personal lives, it creates peace, trust, and barakah (blessings) in everything we do.
3. Aligning Decisions with Wisdom & Fairness
Every decision we make—big or small—should reflect wisdom and fairness. Often, we make choices based on emotions, peer pressure, or societal expectations, but Islam teaches us to seek guidance, reflect, and judge wisely before making decisions.
Allah says:
"And do not let hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness." (Quran 5:8)
To ensure our decisions align with justice:
- Seek knowledge before making judgments or taking action.
- Avoid emotional biases—whether in personal disputes, workplace conflicts, or leadership roles.
- Ask for guidance through Istikharah and always rely on Allah’s wisdom over our own limited understanding.
By making wise and fair decisions, we elevate our personal standards and contribute to a just society.
4. Strengthening Taqwa (God-Consciousness) in Everyday Life
Living with Al-Hakam means developing taqwa, a deep awareness that Allah is always watching. One of the Hadith Qudsi states:
"There is nothing that will bring My servant closer to Me than fulfilling the obligations I have prescribed."
The obligations refer to everything Allah commands us to do, and avoiding everything He has forbidden. When we obey Allah’s guidance, we strengthen our connection with Him and draw nearer to His mercy.
In her lecture, Dr. Haifaa Younis beautifully explained that when Allah loves you, it has nothing to do with worldly things—not your degree, wealth, or beauty. Instead, His love is reflected in your connection with Him. He becomes your hearing, your sight, and your guidance in life. When we are truly conscious of His presence, it naturally keeps us away from injustice, wrongdoing, and carelessness, leading us toward a life of righteousness and peace.
A person with taqwa:
- Think before speaking or acting, ensuring their actions please Allah.
- Controls anger and emotions, dealing with others in a fair and measured way.
- Respects the rights of others, knowing that Allah will judge them based on how they treat people.
By nurturing taqwa, we create an internal moral compass that keeps us on the path of justice, integrity, and righteousness.
One of the most profound ways to elevate our standards in life is by developing taqwa—a deep awareness that Allah is always watching. The more we internalize Al-Hakam, the more conscious we become of our actions, speech, and intentions.
Living with Al-Hakam as Our Guide
When we embrace Al-Hakam in our lives, we elevate our standards in ways that benefit both our dunya and our Akhirah. By making fair and thoughtful decisions, we ensure our actions align with divine wisdom, strengthening taqwa. We develop deep awareness of Allah, shaping our character and integrity, trusting in Allah’s ultimate judgment, and we find peace in knowing that everything happens with purpose and justice.
Living with Al-Hakam is not just about avoiding injustice—it’s about actively choosing righteousness in every thought, word, and action. When we do so, we not only transform our own lives but also inspire justice, wisdom, and kindness in those around us.