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

CULTURE OF COMPASSION A person who develops this kind of psychological discipline will only speak for good. Their tongue will naturally avoid vain or harmful speech, as if they no longer have the words for it. “Good speech” refers to words that convey divine wisdom, support the oppressed, aim to promote human welfare, or are motivated by well-wishing and a constructive purpose. On the other hand, “bad speech” includes words meant to promote one’s own image, to support injustice, to spread hatred or harm, or to stir up conflict and create disorder in society. True belief in God and the Hereafter makes a person serious and responsible. And someone who has become truly serious and responsible will speak only in the manner described in the above saying of the Prophet. EXCELLENCE IN CHARACTER The Prophet of Islam stands as a moral example for everyone. His character represents the highest standard for the community to follow. The Quran describes his character in these words: “You are truly of a sublime character.” (68:4) Similarly, a prophetic tradition states, “Do not be like those who say: ‘If people treat us well, we will do the same, and if they wrong us, we will wrong them in return.’ Instead, train yourselves to say: ‘If people treat us well, we will respond with kindness, and if they mistreat us, we will still not commit injustice.’” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith No. 2007)