Page 87 - The importance of conscience in the Qur'an

THE ABODE OF THOSE WHO DO
NOT FOLLOW THEIR

CONSCIENCE

e have stated that there is a conviction prevalent
in society that following the conscience will
W harm one's interests. Those who believe this
think that by not following their conscience, they can satisfy
their wishes and desires, guard their interests, and thus profit.
This is one of their biggest misconceptions, as they in fact lose
both the world and the hereafter because of this perverted
belief.
Conscience is under the command of Allah and is totally
out of man's control. Whatever decision a person may make,
his conscience never leaves him and always tells him the truth.
Hearing the truth on the one hand, and not following it on the
other, causes a great 'twinge of conscience'. This 'twinge of
conscience' is not like any other form of distress. It is a distress
Allah has given people in return for what they have done and
also as an opportunity to correct their mistakes. In the Qur'an,
Allah mentions the three men who suffered because they did
not follow their conscience. Their worldly concerns prevented
them from accompanying the Muslims on a campaign. They
deeply regretted their negligence, could hardly endure the