HAVING OTHERS AT ONE’S MERCY

Islamic Character ~ 136 ~ over him. His enemy may be in a position of weakness, but this weakness lies under the protection of Almighty God. If one gloats over the weakness of an enemy, one must also cringe before the power of God. Consciousness of God’s allembracing power leads the victor to forgive his vanquished enemy, despite the latter’s helplessness, for the victor knows that in so doing, he is grasping a golden opportunity to win God’s forgiveness for himself. Moses once asked the Lord which of His servants was dearest to Him. The Lord replied: “One who forgives even when he has the power to do otherwise.” ANGER Of all the human emotions, the most destructive is anger. It tears apart human relationships, shatters the harmony of the environment and destablizes whole communities. It must be recognized as one of the worst negative forces in society, and, as such, be kept under strict control. Alas, it is an emotion, which affects all human