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

have a complaint against you, I will not stray from the path of Truth and become your enemy, seeking to harm you. If I have disagreements with you, I will keep them within the limits of legitimate critique. I will not extend them to faultfinding, blaming, or character assassination. Assalam Alaykum is not merely a ritualistic phrase. It is, in fact, a commitment to living a principled life. By saying Assalam Alaykum, a person is, in essence, declaring how they will behave in daily life—with peace, security, and wellwishing toward others, rather than conflict or ill-wishing. THE VALUE OF SERVING OTHERS Among the noble human qualities highlighted in the Quran is one that is reflected in these words: “those who give a due share of their wealth, to those who ask [for help] and to the destitute.” (70:24-25). It is human nature to be of service to others and to help those in need. Islam fosters this instinct to its highest degree. A person who lives with faith and devotion to God begins to realize that their wealth and possessions are not solely theirs. Others, too, have a right to them. They assist not only those who directly ask for help but also those who are in need, even if they do not ask for assistance for various reasons. Malik bin Anas, the renowned Muslim scholar, explains the term “the deprived” in the Quranic verse as referring to those who are deprived of sustenance (rizq).