Follow the Straight Path Rather Than Divisive Ways

Names and terminology

Canonical name: Follow the Straight Path Rather Than Divisive Ways

Literal meaning

Remain committed to the unified path presented by the revelation rather than competing paths.

Broader interpretation

This item should be interpreted within the historical purpose, intended audience and wider structure of its parent ethical framework.

Historical context

This item belongs to Ten Ethical Injunctions in Qur'an 6:151–153. Seventh-century Qur'anic revelation; Arabian Peninsula.

Practical meaning

Practical application requires attention to intention, consent, evidence, rights, foreseeable effects and the needs of all persons or beings affected.

Ethical purpose

To shape conduct, judgment or character in a way consistent with the wider framework.

Exceptions and disputes

Religious unity should not be enforced by suppressing conscience, inquiry or peaceful disagreement.

Variations across schools or traditions

Wording and interpretation may vary between translations, denominations, schools and historical periods.

Modern application

Modern application should distinguish the historical formulation from present legal, social and ethical conditions.

Criticism and difficult cases

Religious unity should not be enforced by suppressing conscience, inquiry or peaceful disagreement.

Truth By Reason analysis

Truth By Reason assesses this principle through evidence, intentions, rights, foreseeable consequences, consistency and the treatment of all affected beings.

Ethical themes

• Worship
• Self-control

Sources

• Qur'an 6:151–153 Primary source