An Example of Noble Character
English book, p. 379
By Maulana Wahiduddin Khan
MERCY TO THE WORLDS approach not only ensures the survival of the mission but also carries the potential that, after achieving stability in a “Madinah,” they may eventually influence even a “Makkah.” Trusting Human Nature The Prophet of Islam and his companions repeatedly faced harsh treatment from people, including provocative insults, stone-throwing, and deliberate obstacles placed in their path. At that point, the Quran instructed them to respond to evil with good. The verse stated: “Repel evil with what is better; then you will see that one who was once your enemy has become your dearest friend.” (Quran, 41:34) This guidance reveals an important truth: no matter how strongly someone appears to be an opponent or enemy, the nature created by God still exists within them. Human nature is inherently inclined toward truth. In other words, every apparent enemy holds a hidden friend within. If you are advocating truth, you must firmly believe that a counterpart to your message already exists in the heart of the other person. The most reliable way to uncover this hidden friend is to respond to negative behaviour with positive conduct. Your kindness softens their hostility, revealing the friend beneath the surface. It is historically recorded that in the early period of Islam, thousands of people followed Islam because of this very principle. For example, a Bedouin once approached the Prophet with the intention to harm him while he was alone and raised his sword to kill. However, the Prophet overpowered him

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