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

patience, so that one may overlook unpleasant situations and continue their journey toward a higher purpose. The Quran repeatedly exhorts patience. For example, it says: “And be patient over what befalls you” (31:17); “And be patient. Indeed, God is with the patient” (8:46); and “Indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience” (103:2-3). Similarly, patience is greatly emphasized in the Hadith literature. The Prophet of Islam is reported to have said: “Listen, obey, and be patient” (Musnad Ahmad, Hadith No. 8005). He also said: “God has commanded patience and forgiveness” (Sunan Abi Dawud, Hadith No. 3000). A Companion of the Prophet stated: “The Prophet and his Companions would always endure harm with patience” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 4566). The truth is that patience forms the foundation of Islamic conduct. In this world of trials and tribulations, no one can uphold Islamic character without patience. SPIRITUAL PROGRESS The true aim of Islam is spiritual growth. Islam aims to awaken human spirituality—the awakening of the divinity (rabbaniyat) hidden within each person. This is the genuine purpose of Islam. In the Quran, this idea is called tathir and tazkiyah (9:102), which means the purification of one’s soul.