The Life & Character of the Seal of Prophets (sa) – Volume III — Page 25
I - Commencement of the Second Era of Life in Madīnah 25 legal tactic of war? The truth is that in this day and age, a very erroneous concept of “goodness” and “honesty” has developed in the hearts of people. In actuality, true goodness does not constitute that man should empty himself of common sense and wisdom and act foolishly, thus sowing the seed of his destruction by his own hands. Instead, goodness means that if on the one hand man refrains from falsehood and treason, and does not do anything contrary to truth and honesty, on the other, he opens the way to spiritual and worldly success for his nation, by acting with complete prudence and remaining vigilant in all aspects. If a man is prudent and alert, but does not refrain from falsehood and treason, and commits treachery, then no doubt, he does not possess the right to be referred to as righteous. Likewise, if an individual acts in truth and loyalty, but does not demonstrate common sense, wisdom, prudence and vigilance, then he cannot at all be deemed to possess high morality either. This is because the true definition of goodness is to possess a relationship with God. If a relationship with God, who is the fountainhead of all intellect cannot develop common-sense and wisdom within man, then what else will? No doubt, in such a case, this cannot be considered a true relationship with God. This is why in the definition of goodness, Islām has not specified any particular action, but has declared that true goodness is the righteousness of heart. Only that deed has been classified as “good”, which is administered with the righteousness of heart, considering the pleasure of God and the betterment of His creation, in accordance with the present circumstances. For example, if the question is to deal between friends, then high character should be exhibited according to the circumstances. If the question is to deal with enemies, then a commendable character should be exhibited according to the circumstances. If an environment of peace already exists, then one should exhibit the best possible character. If it is a period of war, then a character of high morals should be exhibited. As such, keeping in mind the acquisition of the pleasure of Allāh the Exalted and God’s creation, whatever noble and complete character is adopted with the righteousness of heart, is true goodness. Islām has specified a different virtue in accordance to every instance and every condition. This is the correct understanding which is worthy of being declared the definition of “goodness”. It is a place of pride for Islām that its holy founder, may peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him, demonstrated the true definition of goodness in this world. It is that very holy being who has demonstrated high moral character in every walk of life. Those who raise allegations, do so merely on the