In the intricate dance of human existence, we encounter moments of unfairness that challenge our very understanding of equality. I speak not of the gender equality you might immediately think of, but of a subtler, insidious form of injustice that has been present throughout history. Unseen victims have often been caught in the toxic webs spun by deceptive individuals who exploit societal norms and manipulate them to their advantage.

Consider the historical example of Prophet Yousuf. Falsely accused by a woman scorned, he was thrown into jail, a vivid illustration of how an individual’s narrative can be twisted to serve personal motives. Likewise, men have been known to tarnish the reputation of a woman who dares to reject them, using the power of slander and stigma to their advantage.

Such manipulative tactics have not faded with time, but rather have adapted to our modern era. In today’s world, these underhanded strategies extend beyond personal relationships into the arenas of career competition, social standing, and public visibility. It is not uncommon for individuals to master the art of playing the victim, manipulating the perceptions of others, and tarnishing the reputation of rivals – regardless of whether romance is involved.

When you choose to engage in a larger society, it’s almost inevitable that you’ll be drawn into this game. Regardless of your intentions, gender, or moral compass, manipulation often comes into play. Those who choose fairness over deceit may find themselves at a disadvantage, even suffering temporary losses. But remember, this is the price of refusing to be the predator and instead choosing to be the prey.

Such individuals, both men and women, who exploit others’ innocence, shirk responsibility for their actions, and place blame on others, are considered evil.

A classic example of this is the expectation in many societies that men should make the first move in romantic pursuits. The inherent power imbalance here can lead to manipulation and deceit. Men may enjoy the chase, while women revel in the power of rejection.

People often say that women are hard to understand and men should simply accept this. However, this mindset should only be tolerated to a limited extent, especially when it harms others. Beyond that, individuals must be held accountable for their actions.

Not everyone who partakes in these behaviors is inherently evil, but the digital world provides ample evidence of such conduct. Screenshots of innocuous messages shared publicly for the purpose of validation, of demonstrating desirability, are a common occurrence. But at what cost? The other party, often innocent, finds their reputation tarnished for the sake of another’s ego.

I recall a story from my childhood where a high school relationship escalated into a full-blown street brawl involving over fifty men. A single woman was the spark that ignited this conflict, demonstrating the power that lies in beauty and desirability.

In contrast, I have also seen men who exploit women’s emotions, financial needs, and vulnerabilities, only to subsequently abuse, humiliate, and ruin their lives. Armed with audacity, such men use their established positions and reputations as shields, easily discrediting any woman who dares to speak up against them. This is particularly true in conservative societies.

Societal support often goes to those who are able to manipulate emotions and sell convincing narratives. Those who can make us believe that we are doing the right thing, even when we’re not. This manipulation isolates us from the other side of the story and often spurs us into taking actions we might not otherwise consider.

In our increasingly mixed society, where even restrooms are shared, men and women find themselves competing in areas beyond personal relationships. Careers, social ranks, popularity, and politics are all battlegrounds where deceitful tactics can be used to isolate rivals and gain an upper hand.

What then is our recourse in such situations? Should we remain passive, allowing the cycle of harm to continue unimpeded, potentially even becoming victims ourselves? I say no, we should not be silent. We should take guidance from the wisdom of Surah Al-Hujurat. Verse 49:6 advises us, “Believers, when an ungodly person brings to you a piece of news, carefully ascertain its truth, lest you should hurt a people unwittingly and thereafter repent at what you did”​​. In other words, we should not readily accept information that is presented to us, but rather investigate its validity.

Moreover, Verse 49:9 instructs us that if two parties among believers fall into a quarrel, we should seek to make peace between them. However, if one party transgresses against the other, we must stand against the transgressor until they comply with the command of Allah. Once compliance is achieved, we should then restore peace between them, doing so with justice and fairness​​.

We must resist the temptation to side with the person we like more, care about more, or who has more social or material advantages. We must strive to remain neutral, not swayed by narrator’s eloquence, beauty, wealth, or power, in order to make fair decisions. It is our duty to defend the victims, regardless of the challenge that presents. It may not be an easy path, but it is unquestionably the right one.

This call to action is not just about individual interactions; it’s about creating a society that values fairness, accountability, and justice above all else. It’s about standing up against manipulation and deceit, ensuring that our actions are guided by integrity and truth. Let us be inspired to take this path, for it is not only the right thing to do, but it is the only way we can truly ensure that justice and fairness prevail in our society.