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

CULTURE OF COMPASSION involved and to resolve it within that small group by all possible means. If, despite all efforts, this initial attempt fails, the matter should still not be made public. At that stage, only a few close and relevant individuals should be involved to help resolve it. If their efforts also fail, then—and only then— is it permissible to refer the matter to a court or another external authority. THE EXAMPLE OF THE PROPHET In pre-Islamic Arabia, Ka‘b ibn Zuhayr was a well-known poet. When the Prophet of Islam started his mission, Ka‘b became one of his opponents. He composed poetry against the Prophet and widely spread those verses among the people. His poems contained harsh criticism and offensive satire directed at the Prophet. When Makkah was conquered, Ka‘b ibn Zuhayr felt that there was no place left for him. His brother Bujayr said to him, “Go to Madinah and meet the Prophet of Islam. That is what is best for you now, because he does not kill anyone who comes to him in repentance.” So Ka‘b ibn Zuhayr came to Madinah. Early the next morning, he reached the Prophet’s Mosque. As the Prophet concluded the prayer, Ka‘b stepped forward and held his hand. At that moment, the Prophet did not recognize him. Ka‘b said, “I am Ka‘b ibn Zuhayr. I have