Journal of Quranic Knowledge

Journal of Quranic Knowledge

Divine Laws Governing Victory and Defeat from the Qur’anic Perspective

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Author
ali Karbalaei Pazouki
Department of Theology and Islamic Studies, Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, Allameh Ṭabāṭabā’ī University, Tehran, Iran
10.22054/rjqk.2026.94220.3375
Abstract
From the perspective of the Holy Qur’an, victory and defeat are not merely the consequences of material or military superiority and human will; rather, the framework of divine laws governing individual, social, and historical human life plays a decisive role. This study identifies these laws and explains their interrelationship in bringing about divine assistance. Using a descriptive-interpretive method and content analysis, and drawing on Qur’anic verses and exegetical views, the present study elucidates the system of divine laws that influence victory and defeat. The findings indicate that these laws can be classified into four interconnected levels: doctrinal (faith, sincerity, and reliance on God); ethical (piety, patience, perseverance, and avoidance of pride); social (unity, obedience to leadership, consultation, and discipline); and defensive (defensive preparedness, the development of up-to-date capabilities, and knowledge of the enemy). The findings show that, from the Qur’anic perspective, divine assistance results from the harmonious interaction of these laws. Accordingly, the Qur’an provides a systematic and multidimensional theory of victory applicable to all contexts, including society and warfare, in which doctrinal, spiritual, and value-based laws; social laws; and the utilization of hard-power components, natural laws, material means, and human will constitute parts of a unified system for achieving victory.
Keywords
Defeat, Victory, Divine Laws, Qur&‌rsquo
an, Warfare
Subjects
 
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Journal of Quranic Knowledge

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 20 September 2026