ISLAMIC VIRTUES

Thinking nought of one’s actions Saeed ibn Jubayr, a companion of the Companions of the Prophet, was asked who was the greatest worshipper. “One who has sinned then repents,” came the reply. “Then when he recalls his sins, he sets no great value upon his good deeds either”. Being conscious of one’s own faults, not of others Although Rabi’ ibn Khaythama never used to speak ill of anybody, he once remarked upon people’s extraordinary habit of fearing God with regard to other people’s sins, but not with regard to their own. Reforming others and being ready to be reformed oneself The following is part of the address delivered by Abu Bakr on being elected Caliph: “My people, your affairs have been entrusted to me, although I am no better than you. The weak among you will be the strongest until I have ensured that they received what is rightfully theirs. The strong among you I will look upon as the weakest, until I have made sure that they pay their due. I am just like anyone of you. When you see that I am proceeding correctly, follow me; and when you see me waver, set me straight. Greatness comes from inward grace not from outward actions Commenting on the Caliph Abu Bakr’s outstanding greatness, Abu Bakr Muzani observed that it was not because he fasted or prayed more than others; it was because of something in his heart. Ibn Aliyya, explaining this statement of Abu Bakr Muzani, said that what he had in mind was love of God and kindness for His creatures. No desire for self-glory Hamdun Nishapuri, who lived in the third century Hijri, when asked who God’s true servant was, answered: “One who worships and has no desire for people to worship him.” The greatest deeds are the most difficult of all “Three actions are the most difficult”, the Prophet once remarked: “Being fair with others on matters concerning oneself; helping others by giving from one’s own possessions; and remembering God at all times.” o