Editorial | Essence of Character!

Islam is a religion that places a strong emphasis on morality, ethics, and etiquette as a way of achieving redemption in the hereafter. The teachings of the Quran and the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) place a strong emphasis on having good character. It defines true righteousness, and the best Muslims are those who uphold it. The best-behaved believers are those who have the fullest faith and are most favoured by Allah (SubhanahuWaTa’ala) and His Messenger (Pbuh).Verily, you are of great moral character. Surat al-Qalam 68:4The commentators say the “great moral character” mentioned in this verse is the Quran, the Prophet, and the religion of Islam itself.The Prophet of Allah reportedly said: Verily, I have only been sent to perfect righteous character. His main goal was to help believers develop moral character in all facets of their lives. Respecting Allah requires upholding the right creed (aqeedah) and engaging in acts of worship (ibadah). Being just, merciful, forgiving, kind, and patient in our relationships with other people is a sign of excellent character (mu’amalat).In another narration, the Messenger of Allah said: Righteousness is good character and sin is what waivers in your heart and you hate for people to find out about it.The Prophet, peace be upon him preached with this all-encompassing perspective of virtue throughout his life and at Mecca. The companions would recall how one of the first Islamic teachings they had ever heard was having good character. Good character is not merely recommended or secondary to issues of doctrine. Rather, the spirit that gives life to our doctrines is good character, morals, ethics, and manners. It is the very definition of righteousness, as described in the whole Qur’an. It can be understood by our rational nature since Allah has endowed us all with the capacity to distinguish between right and wrong even in the absence of revelation. We ask Allah to grant all of us the best of the character. Amen!