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

that view is clarified with sound evidence, they accept it without hesitation. This incident also shows the proper etiquette and principles of free expression. Even an ordinary person has the right to disagree with the Caliph. At the same time, one must also be someone who can recognize a valid argument and be willing to drop their objection once the truth becomes clear. THE SUPREMACY OF TRUTH There is an incident involving a scholar who disagreed with his spiritual teacher on a particular issue and offered a different opinion. Someone said to him, “You are differing with your teacher.” He replied, “The teacher is dear to us, but the truth is dearer than the teacher.” This incident highlights the correct perspective on disagreement and criticism. That is: every individual deserves respect according to their status. Everyone’s human and moral rights must be fully upheld. But when the matter of truth arises, it must be given precedence over everything else. When the comparison is between two individuals, the person may be important. But when the comparison is between an individual and the truth, it is the truth that holds greater value. The importance of truth is absolute; the importance of any individual is conditional.