An Example of Noble Character

THE LIFE OF A BELIEVER The king was shaken by her words. He dismounted and said, “Mother, who can withstand judgment on that bridge? It’s better that we settle things right here.” The woman explained that the king’s soldiers had taken and slaughtered her cow. Malik Shah remained there, investigated the matter, and upon confirming her complaint, punished the guilty on the spot. He then personally apologized to the woman and compensated her generously—far more than the cow’s worth. Worse Than a Dog After the Mongols overran the Abbasid Empire in Baghdad, many of them developed a sense of superiority over Muslims. One day, a Mongol prince was out hunting with his dog when he came across a Muslim elder. Mockingly, he called the man over and asked, “Tell me—are you better, or my dog?” The Muslim replied calmly, “If I die with faith, then I am better. But if not, then your dog is better than me.” The words struck the prince deeply. He was so moved that he began inquiring about this faith—the kind that could make a person better or worse than a dog. That journey of inquiry eventually led him to follow the same religion. Sorrow Deepens a Soul In another gathering, well-dressed and respected individuals were seated on fine carpets when a shabbily dressed man entered and sat down without invitation. Someone told him