Social Values in the First Saudi State

The social values in the First Saudi State are a system of social and moral values followed by the First Saudi State, which was founded by Imam Muhammad Bin Saud in 1727, with Diriyah as its capital.

Generosity is considered one of the social values that characterized society in the First Saudi State, and this was reflected in their poetry, stories, accounts, and narratives of that time. What contributed to spreading the value of generosity among the members of society was its association with several noble Arab traits, such as affection, benevolence, compassion, help, honor, chivalry, self-respect, dignity, masculinity, and others.

Generosity was a part of the customs and behavior of society in the First Saudi State. One example of this is that a guest would not be asked about their needs until after three days had passed.

The rulers of the First Saudi State gave great attention to the value of justice, promoting and instilling it in society by applying the principle of equality among people in duties and rights, good treatment, restoring rights in cases of injustice, and refraining from harming others. As a result, social inequalities were eliminated, and security was established throughout the country.

One of the examples of justice in the First Saudi State was that the oppressed person would go to the ruler of Diriyah, who would welcome them and listen to their grievances until their rights were restored. An example of this is what Imam Muhammad Bin Saud did when he gave everyone their due rights, organized relationships between members of society with justice in dealings, and established Sharia courts in Diriyah to ensure justice. Imam Abdulaziz Bin Muhammad also focused on appointing qualified and knowledgeable judges in all regions of the state to oversee the welfare of society, as did the other imams.

Forgiveness when in a position of power, and not retaliating with harm, were values of tolerance that characterized the society of the First Saudi State. This contributed to achieving their unity and solidarity, as the rulers and people of Diriyah were known for their tolerance toward those who disagreed with them. They understood that tolerance and forgiveness strengthen love and build friendships.

Another form of tolerance was the reliance on a policy of good neighborliness with neighboring countries, offering assistance to ensure their security and stability.

The society in the First Saudi State was characterized by virtue, which was one of the core social values in their daily lives. It is a trait that is deeply connected to one's character, guiding them to perform all good actions and avoid harm. Virtue, among the rulers and people of Diriyah, was considered a measure of high aspirations, generosity, honor, and a source of social harmony.

Courage was one of the prominent social values in the First Saudi State. The courageous were honored and respected, receiving pride for their bravery and valor in defending their land, honor, and wealth.

Courage was exemplified by the rulers and people of Diriyah when they risked their lives to defend their land against military campaigns launched by enemies at that time, in addition to their victories in several wars and battles.

Integrity represented one of the social values that characterized the society of the First Saudi State. This was reflected in safeguarding people's rights without greed for any entrusted deposit, or denying the property entrusted to one's care.

A betrayer of trust would face public disgrace and rejection within their social circle, in addition to losing their personal and social value, becoming the subject of people's talk.

The concern for offering protection to refugees, was one of the inherited social values in the society of the First Saudi State. It reflected pride in protecting those seeking refuge, in addition to signifying chivalry and honor.

The people of Diriyah relied on the protection of the tribe, family, or individual for a specific period, depending on the nature of the crime or offense committed. For example, protection could last around 14 months in cases of murder, about six months for serious injuries like fractures and deep wounds, and around three months for less harmful injuries such as beating or other forms of assault.