An Example of Noble Character

MERCY TO THE WORLDS through patience. Likewise, “Praise be to God, Lord of the Worlds” (Quran, 1:2) does not contain the word sabr, but it is inherently a verse of patience, because true expressions of praise in the face of loss and deprivation can only come from a person grounded in patience. The verse “Speak to him gently” (Quran, 20:44) is also a verse of patience, because speaking gently to an arrogant opponent requires the ability to endure hurtful speech without reacting harshly. In this world, the only secret to success is to begin with what is possible. And the single greatest cause of failure is to waste one’s strength and energy in the pursuit of what is impossible. In other words, one could say that a violent course of action leads a person toward destruction, whereas a peaceful course of action leads toward success. Violent methods are always the result of impatience. In contrast, peaceful methods are adopted by those who can demonstrate patience and restraint in situations of conflict. In this world, peace is the greatest force—and patience is what enables a person to successfully harness the power of peace. COMPLETION OF RELIGION The finality of prophethood (khatm-e-nubuwwat) and the completion of religion (takmeel-e-deen) are two aspects of the same reality. According to God’s creative plan, it was necessary that divine guidance remain available to humankind at all times. In earlier times, this guidance