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

This shows that a person can be rewarded like the doers, even if they were unable to act—because of their intentions. Outwardly, they may not have achieved anything, yet they are counted among those who did. How is this possible? It happens when someone participates through their intention and spirit, even if they cannot join practically. For instance: • If someone achieves more than you, don’t feel envious. Instead, acknowledge their merit. • If someone has more wealth than you, sincerely wish that God enables them to be thankful and fulfill their obligations. • If someone is speaking on stage while you are only in the audience, pray for them: “O God, guide their words so they speak truthfully and protect their tongue from falsehood.” TRUST AND RELIANCE ON GOD The Quran states: “when you have decided upon a course of action, place your trust in God.” (3:159) This means that making a strong, committed decision is the responsibility of the individual—while the outcome should be entrusted to God. A narration reports that ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab said: “I heard the Prophet of Islam say: If you