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

CULTURE OF COMPASSION self-restraint, and take steps to prevent such injustice and extremism.” (Tafsir Usmani, p. 137) Not everyone in a group is equally composed—some are more emotional and may react to provocation from the opposing side. At such moments, the rest of the group has to restrain those who are acting emotionally—to speak out against them rather than remain silent, and to condemn their actions rather than support them. If they fail to do so, then—according to the Quran—they too are guilty of “helping one another in sin and transgression.” DESPITE THE COMPLAINT Makkah came under Muslim rule in Ramadan, 8 AH. Soon afterward, the Battle of Hunayn occurred in Shawwal, 8 AH. Shortly before these events, Khalid ibn al-Walid had embraced Islam and come to Madinah. Despite his recent conversion, the Prophet of Islam appointed him as the commander of the Muslim army in both campaigns. This decision was difficult for the Ansar (the Helpers of Madinah), as they had believed in and sacrificed for the Prophet long before Khalid had become a Muslim. In modern terms, it felt like a junior being given preference over seniors. However, despite this grievance, the Ansar remained loyal to the Prophet and obeyed every one of his commands.