3. Virtuous Life

are considerate. Where unbelievers bear ill will, believers are well-wishing. Where unbelievers usurp others’ rights, believers render everyone his due. Believers are not prevented by false pride from acknowledging the truth. Believers never forsake justice, even when they are tempted to seek revenge. Suppressing one’s anger is a sign of good character. “For those who spend, both in prosperity and adversity, who restrain their anger and are forgiving towards their fellow men—God loves those who do good works.” Al- ‘Imran 3:134 When the Prophet was once asked which action was best, he said that there was nothing better than good character. The questioner then approached him from the right and put the same question to him. Again, the Prophet answered: “Good character.” Then, coming from the left, the man once again addressed the Prophet and asked him which virtue was best. The Prophet told him for the third time that good character excelled in all other actions. When the man came from behind and asked the Prophet once again which virtue was best, the Prophet replied: “How is it that you do not understand what is meant by good character? As far as you are able, you should not become angry: that is what is meant by having a good character.” Muhammad Ibn Nasr Al-Marwazi