The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam — Page 34
28 Distinction Between Khalq (Creation) and Khulq (Morals) Here I would like to define the word "Khulq”. It should be kept in mind that "Kh" in the word "Khalq" followed by Fatha denotes physical birth, and “Kh” in the word "Khulq" followed by Dammah27 denotes the spiritual birth. Khalq connotes physical birth and Khulq connotes inner birth. As inner birth is perfected through moral development and not merely through the exercise of natural impulses, Khulq connotes moral qualities and not natural impulses. It should be pointed out that the common conception that morals merely mean meekness, courtesy and humility is entirely mistaken. The truth is that corresponding to every physical action there is an inner quality which is moral. All of these qualities are known as Khulq. For instance, a person sheds tears through the eyes and corresponding to that action there is an inner quality which is called tenderness, which takes on the character of a moral quality when, under the control of reason, it is exercised on its proper occasion. In the same way, a person defends himself against the attack of an enemy with his hands, and corresponding to this action there is an inner quality which is called bravery. When this quality is exercised at its proper place and on its proper occasion, 26. It is a vowel-sound equal to short “a”- as “a” in human. 27. It is a vowel-sound equal to short "u"- as “u” in put.