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

like night and day. If false criticism is a stench, then true criticism is a fragrance. If false criticism is a thorn, then true criticism is a beautiful flower. False criticism is a form of destruction. In contrast, true criticism is a constructive process—one that deserves to be continuously upheld in all circumstances. FREEDOM OF THOUGHT In Madinah, there lived a Muslim man and a Muslim woman from the slave class. The man’s name was Mugeeth, and the woman’s name was Bareerah. After some time, Bareerah was set free. As per Islamic law, once she became free, she was given the choice to either remain with her former husband or to separate from him. Bareerah chose to separate. However, Mugeeth was deeply attached to her and hoped she would change her decision and agree to live with him again. This is a long story. Many details about it are found in hadith collections, and some scholars have even written full-length works on the story of Bareerah and Mugeeth. In summary, the matter was eventually brought before the Prophet of Islam. At the time, Bareerah was walking ahead, while Mugeeth—who was dark-skinned—was following behind her in a state of sorrow, with tears soaking his beard. According to one narration: The Prophet said, “It would be good if you took him back.” Bareerah asked, “Are you