Surah 17. Al-Israa, Ayah 15

Sc., "so that they might fully understand the meaning of right and wrong": cf. {6:131-132} and the corresponding note [117], as well as 28:59 (which, in the chronology of revelation, immediately precedes the present surah).

See 6:164 , 35:18 and 39:7 , as well as the corresponding notes, also 53:38 , which represents the earliest Qur'anic statement of this fundamental principle of ethics.

The doctrine of personal responsibility is insisted on, and the basis of ethics is shown to be our own good or evil as furthering or obstructing our highest development.

The doctrine of vicarious atonement is condemned. Salvation for the wicked cannot be attained by the punishment of the innocent. One man cannot bear the burden of another: that would be unjust. Every man must bear his own personal responsibility. Cf. vi. 164. But Allah never visits His wrath on anyone until due warning is conveyed to him through an accredited messenger.