A Critique of Professor Arnold G. Toynbee’s Understanding — Page 44
44 Austerity and Simplicity for Relatives The Holy Prophet’s treatment of his relatives and near and dear ones was also very different from worldly kings. Worldly kings adopt all variety of schemes and plans for their relations, children, and near relatives, both at the legislative level and other wise. They spend every effort in ensuring that after their death, their children should also continue to enjoy the life of delight and luxury, that they be endowed with all worldly comforts and wealth just as they themselves are. But the practice and examp le of the Holy Prophet of Islam were quite different. The Holy Prophet Muhammad, may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, had many children. He had several daughters and had grandchildren. He had several uncles, nephews and nieces also. All were o bedient and fully devoted to him. Just as he enjoyed the life of contentment, he preferred the same for all of them. The Holy Quran established the foundation for the method of selecting his successor: “ Verily, the most honorable amongst you, in the sight of Allah, is he who is the most righteous amongst you “, ( Holy Quran 49;14 ), and this rule was implemented by the prophet. He had already forbidden his descendants to accept alms. He made sure