THEFT 2️⃣ – Punishment Within the Abrahamic Tradition
✒️ THEFT 2️⃣ – Punishment Within the Abrahamic Tradition The Ruling in Surah Yusuf and Alternative Approaches to Justice in the Qur’an The issue of theft in the Qur’an is not addressed solely in Surah al-Ma’idah (5:38) . A significant episode appears in Surah Yusuf (12:70–76) , where the crime of theft and its punishment are framed within Abrahamic custom —reflecting the moral and customary legal context of that time. 📖 Relevant Verses (Yusuf 12:70–76) Brief Summary: Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) devises a plan to keep his brother Benjamin with him by placing a royal cup in Benjamin’s saddlebag. Then, his men proclaim: “O people of the caravan! You are thieves!” The brothers deny the accusation and proclaim their innocence. Yusuf’s men ask: “What is the punishment for theft according to your law?” The brothers respond: “The thief shall be held back (as a slave or servant).” The cup is then found in Benjamin’s bag, and this penalty is carried out. The Qur’an says: “So he began t...