1. Divine Record Keeping

• Allah’s Record: Islam teaches that everything a person does is recorded by angels.
  • “And indeed, [appointed] over you are keepers, noble and recording; they know whatever you do.” — Qur’an 82:10-12
• On the Day of Judgment, people will be shown their records:
  • “And the record [of deeds] will be placed [open], and you will see the criminals fearful of that within it.” — Qur’an 18:49

This teaches Muslims the value of accountability.

📚 Historical/Administrative Record Keeping

2. Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Era

• Contracts and Agreements: The Prophet emphasized writing down agreements.
  • Surah Al-Baqarah 2:282 — the longest verse in the Qur’an — emphasizes writing down financial transactions:
    • “O you who believe! When you contract a debt for a fixed time, write it down…”
• Scribes: The Prophet had scribes who recorded revelations, letters, treaties, and tax records.

🧾 Practical Applications in Islam

3. Types of Record Keeping Encouraged:

• Business and Trade: Honest bookkeeping in trade is emphasized to prevent disputes.
• Financial Transactions: As per Qur’an 2:282, all credit and debt dealings should be documented.
• Inheritance Records: Islamic law gives detailed guidance on dividing inheritance, which requires accurate family and asset records.
• Zakat (Charity): Keeping a record of one’s income and assets helps ensure proper calculation and distribution of Zakat.

📋 Why It’s Important in Islamic Ethics:

• Ensures justice and transparency.
• Prevents conflicts and misunderstandings.
• Encourages accountability before both Allah and society.