With the holiday season in full swing and traffic increasing, motorists are being cautioned by authorities about the potential dangers that await those on the road. Over the years one of the major contributing factors to road accidents and collisions has been reckless and inconsiderate driving.

 

As Muslims it is our duty to ensure that we do not become the cause of loss of life and injury to others. Being courteous and considerate are important aspects of a Muslim’s character. A Muslim is obliged to shun any activity that is futile, non-beneficial and has potential to cause harm.

 

If there is a reason for someone to persistently speed and be reckless on the road then it has to be arrogance. Some Muslim youth have been found to be constantly guilty of these offences. Muslims are supposed to be lanterns of hidāyah [guidance] for humanity.

 

The character of a Muslim is construed as a reflection of Islām. We should De constantly asking ourselves how do we reflect Islām? Are we being impediments in the path of others realising the beauty of Dīnul Islām?

 

Are we not doing a disservice to our religion with our character and mannerisms? These and other serious questions should be repeatedly asked to determine if we are projecting our Dīn correctly.

 

Inconsiderate behaviour in any circumstance is unacceptable, more so when it involves the lives of other individuals. Being reckless on the road poses a threat to our family members and other passengers in the vehicle.

 

Furthermore, other road users are also at risk due to our negligence. Bringing harm, causing undue inconvenience and striking fear in the hearts of others, are grave misdeeds. The Qur’ān and Hadīth stress the importance of good character.

 

Once Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam asked the Sahābah Radiallâhu anhum: “Do you all know who is an insolvent person?” The Sahābah Radiallâhu anhum spontaneously replied: “One who has neither dirhams nor property.” Rasulullāh Sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam said, “Certainly the insolvent person from my Ummah is he who will come on the Day of Qiyāmah with Salāh, fasts, and Zakāh to his credit but he will also have sworn at someone, slandered someone, usurped the wealth of someone, spilt the blood of someone, and caused harm to someone, thus his good acts will be passed over to the person he oppressed, if these have expired before these evil acts have been accounted for then the evil actions of those oppressed by him will be thrown onto his face, then he will be thrown into the fire. (Sahīh Muslim)

 

Driving safely and courteously has great merits. It will reflect the true beauty and character that a Muslim is expected to portray.

 

Jamiatul Ulama South Africa

 

29 Jumaadal Ukhraa 1447 / 20 December 2025