The Essence of Islam – Volume III — Page 9
Natural, Moral and Spiritual States of Man to this action, there is an inner quality called tenderness which takes on the character of a moral quality when exercised on its proper occasion and under the control of. God-given wisdom. In the same way, a person defends himself against the attack of an enemy with his hands, and corresponding to this physical action there is an inner quality called bravery. When a person shows bravery on its proper occasion, it becomes a moral quality. In the same way, sometimes a person tries to save the oppressed from the oppressors, wishes to make some provisions for the indigent and the hungry, or seeks to serve humanity in some other way, and corresponding to such an action there is an inner quality called mercy. Sometimes a person punishes a wrongdoer, and corresponding to this action there is an inner quality called retribution. . Sometimes a person is attacked, but he does not want to retaliate in kind and condones the wrong of a wrongdoer, and corresponding to this action there is an inner quality called forgiveness and forbearance. Sometimes a person uses his hands or feet, or employs his head or heart or his wealth to promote the welfare of his fellow beings, and corresponding to this action there is an inner quality called generosity. When a person exercises all these qualities at their proper time and place, they are called moral qualities. Addressing our Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), Allah the Glorious, says: 5 إِنَّكَ لَعَلى خُلُقٍ عَظِيمٍ ؟. That is, 'Yours is indeed the most exalted moral station. ' [Islāmi Uşūl ki Philosophy, Rūḥānī Khazā'in, vol. 10, pp. 332-333] 5 Al-Qalam, 68:5 [Publisher]