THE RELIGION OF HUMANITY: Islam’s Ethical and Spiritual Outlook

replied: “I do not mean being merciful only to your companions, but being merciful to all people—mercy for all of humanity.” (Musnad Abi Ya’la, Hadith No. 4258) When a person comes to believe in God—the Lord of all the Worlds—their faith instills in them a universal mindset. They begin to feel a deep connection with nature, which itself reflects universality. They come to realize that they are part of a vast human fraternity, as all people are creations of the same God. This universal mindset gives rise to a universal love. They begin to see all human beings as their own. A deep wellspring of compassion for humanity is awakened in their heart. They start to view others as part of themselves, and themselves as part of others. A person formed through the teachings of Islam naturally develops a temperament of goodwill toward all human beings. They become someone who loves all people, and a deep urge to serve humanity arises within them. In every respect, they become a universal human being. RESPECT FOR HUMANKIND The Quran states: “We have honoured the children of Adam, and have borne them on the land and the sea, given them for sustenance things which are good and pure; and exalted them above many of Our creatures.” (17:70)