Divine Integrity: Anti-Corruption Lessons in the Holy Qur’an

The Holy Qur’an is regarded by Muslims as the literal words of Allah (God). It offers believers, adherents, and readers a comprehensive guide for living a life based on the principles of justice, integrity, honesty, accountability, transparency, and spiritual fulfillment. Despite the Qur’an’s emphasis on moral conduct, many Muslim-majority nations or states, and indeed non-Muslim majority nations, continue to struggle with corruption in governance and daily affairs. The article aims to examine the Qur’anic stance on corruption by analyzing selected verses alongside interpretations (tafsir) and authenticated hadiths of the Prophet Muhammad to align divine anticorruption teachings in the Qur’an with human behavior. Using the qualitative analytical approach, the article explores how the Qur’an’s ethical principles and teachings can serve as a foundation for assimilating and instilling integrity in persons (both academic and professionals) and inform states’ policy reforms aimed at combating corruption. The findings reveal that the Qur’an provides timeless guidance on justice, accountability, and civic responsibility, which extend beyond religious lines, and can enhance global anti-corruption strategies across diverse cultures and governance systems.