Rights of Others: Not Just Money

 

Rights of Others: Not Just Money 

Author: Gouya Roshan (Güya Aydın )

The concept of “rights of others” (Haq al-Nas) has deep roots in religious and ethical teachings. Unfortunately, today many people perceive it only in material terms. People often assume that failing to return someone’s money or taking someone else’s property constitutes a violation of others’ rights—and nothing more. In reality, the concept is much broader and encompasses all our actions, words, and even decisions toward others.

The trust of society, the efforts and labor of people, their peace and security, and even the moral and psychological impact of our behavior are all part of others’ rights. For example, breaking promises, revealing secrets, or humiliating and insulting others—even if these actions involve no financial loss—still violate others’ rights. Limiting the concept of rights of others to financial matters greatly diminishes its true significance.

Rights of others are not confined to money or property; they also include respect, justice, fairness, honesty, and adherence to social ethics. Observing these principles guides society toward empathy, trust, and moral security. Neglecting them, however, causes suffering and injustice in non-material dimensions that may be irreparable.

Therefore, whenever we speak of others’ rights, we must look beyond money and consider all our human and social responsibilities toward others. Only then can we build a just and ethical society and preserve the social conscience.

Author: Gouya Aydin