Justice, tolerance, mercy, simplicity, truth, logic, and knowledge are just a few examples of values intrinsic to Islam, and they are essential to mention in any discussion about the religion.
This guide provides examples of values expressed in the phrase “Islam is the religion of…” based on the sources of Islam: the Quran and the sayings of the Prophet.
Detailing the place of each value in Islam would require a book for each one, so this article is only a sample summary. However, it provides a starting point for further research on these different subjects.
Islam is the religion of the innate human nature (Fitra)
Being Muslim means being in harmony with our original nature, which consists of believing in a single, perfect God.
But those who wrong follow their [own] desires without knowledge. Then who can guide one whom Allah has sent astray? And for them there are no helpers.
It is only through external influences that people deviate from this natural essence:
Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, 'No child is born except on Al-Fitra (Islam) and then his parents make him Jewish, Christian or Magian, as an animal produces a perfect young animal: do you see any part of its body amputated?' Then he rec ’The religion of pure Islamic Faith (Hanifa),(i.e. to worship none but Allah), The pure Allah’s Islamic nature with which He (Allah) has created mankind. Let There be no change in Allah’s religion (i.e. to join none in Allah’s worship). That is the straight religion; but most of men know not...' (30.30) Sahih al-Bukhari 4775
عن عياض بن حمار المجاشعي -رضي الله عنه-، أن رسول الله -صلى الله عليه وسلم-، قال ذات يوم في خطبته: «ألَا إن ربي أمرني أن أُعَلِّمَكم ما جَهِلتم، ممَّا علَّمني يومي هذا، كلُّ مالٍ نَحَلتُه عبدًا حلال، وإني خلقتُ عبادي حُنَفاء كلهم، وإنهم أتتهم الشياطين فاجتالتهم عن دينهم، وحَرَّمت عليهم ما أحللتُ لهم، وأمرتهم أن يُشركوا بي ما لم أُنزِّل به سلطانا، وإن الله نظر إلى أهل الأرض، فمَقَتهم عربهم وعَجَمهم، إلَّا بقايا من أهل الكتاب، وقال: إنما بعثتُك لأبتليَك وأبتلي بك، وأنزلتُ عليك كتابًا لا يغسله الماءُ، تقرؤه نائمًا ويقظان، وإنَّ اللهَ أمرني أن أحرِق قُرَيشًا، فقلت: رب إذا يَثْلُغوا رأسي فيدعوه خُبْزة، قال: استخرجهم كما استخرجوك، واغزهم نُغزك، وأنفق فسننفق عليك، وابعث جيشا نبعث خمسة مثله، وقاتل بمن أطاعك مَن عصاك، قال: وأهل الجنة ثلاثة ذو سلطان مُقْسِط مُتَصَدِّق مُوَفَّق، ورجل رحيم رقيق القلب لكل ذي قربى ومسلم، وعفيف متعفِّف ذو عيال، قال: وأهل النار خمسة: الضعيف الذي لا زَبْر له، الذين هم فيكم تبعا لا يبتغون أهلا ولا مالا، والخائن الذي لا يخفى له طمع، وإن دقَّ إلا خانه، ورجل لا يُصبح ولا يمسي إلا وهو يخادعك عن أهلك ومالك «وذكر» البخل أو الكذب والشِّنظير الفحَّاش».
صحيح. رواه مسلم.
‘Iyād ibn Himār al-Mujāshi‘i (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said while delivering his sermon one day: 'Verily, my Lord has commanded me to teach you that which you do not know of what He has taught me today: ’Whatever wealth which I have conferred upon my slave is lawful for him. And I have created all My slaves with a natural predisposition to worship Allah alone, but the devils came to them and turned them away from their religion. They made unlawful for them what I have made lawful for them and commanded them to associate with Me in worship that for which I did not send down any authority.’ And verily, Allah looked at the people of the earth and He hated them, both the Arabs and the non-Arabs among them, with the exception of some remnants from the People of the Book. And He said: ’I have sent you (Muhammad) in order to test you, and to test (others) through you. And I revealed to you a Book that cannot be washed away by water, to recite it while you are asleep or awake.’ Indeed, Allah commanded me to burn down the Quraysh, to which I said: ’O My Lord, they would break my head like (breaking dry) bread.’ Allah said: ’Turn them out as they turned you out, fight against them and We shall give you victory, spend and you shall be spent upon, and send an army and We shall send an army five times its size. Fight with those who obey you those who disobey you.’ And He said: ’The inhabitants of Paradise are three (categories of people): He who possesses authority yet is just, charitable, and guided (to doing good), he who is merciful and tender-hearted towards his kin and every Muslim, and he who does not ask others despite having dependents to provide for.’ He also said: ’The inhabitants of Hellfire are five (categories of people): The weak who lacks intellect (to prevent him from evil), who is subordinate to you, who does not seek to have family or wealth; and the dishonest whose greed cannot be concealed even in the case of minor things; and one who spends his entire day deceiving you with regards to your family and wealth; and (he mentioned) the miser or the liar and the ill-mannered who uses obscene and foul language.'
[Muslim] Sahih/Authentic.
Islam, the religion of truth
No matter what is said about a religion or belief system, the most crucial aspect to consider is whether the revelation truly comes from the Creator. No matter how much we follow a system of thought that satisfies us in this life (often only partially), we fundamentally need the truth, for only the truth brings true satisfaction. Islam, along with the evidence it provides, allows humanity to discover a belief system that carries truth.
Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam. And those who were given the Scripture did not differ except after knowledge had come to them - out of jealous animosity between themselves. And whoever disbelieves in the verses of Allah, then indeed, Allah is swift in [taking] account.
Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice. Excellent is that which Allah instructs you. Indeed, Allah is ever Hearing and Seeing.
O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.
Islam recommends that Muslims be fair to each other and to others:
عن أبي ذر الغفاري -رضي الله عنه- عن النبي -صلى الله عليه وسلم- فيما يرويه عن ربه: «يا عبادي، إني حرَّمتُ الظلمَ على نفسي وجعلتُه بينكم محرَّمًا فلا تَظَالموا، يا عبادي، كلكم ضالٌّ إلا من هديتُه فاستهدوني أَهْدَكِم، يا عبادي، كلكم جائِعٌ إلا من أطعمته فاستطعموني أطعمكم، يا عبادي، كلكم عارٍ إلا من كسوتُه فاسْتَكْسُوني أَكْسُكُم، يا عبادي، إنكم تُخطئون بالليل والنهار وأنا أغفر الذنوبَ جميعًا فاستغفروني أغفرْ لكم، ياعبادي، إنكم لن تَبلغوا ضَرِّي فتَضُرُّونِي ولن تَبْلُغوا نَفْعِي فتَنْفَعُوني، يا عبادي، لو أن أولَكم وآخِرَكم وإنسَكم وجِنَّكم كانوا على أتْقَى قلبِ رجلٍ واحد منكم ما زاد ذلك في ملكي شيئًا، يا عبادي، لو أن أوَّلَكم وآخِرَكم وإنسَكم وجِنَّكم كانوا على أفْجَرِ قلب رجل واحد منكم ما نقص ذلك من ملكي شيئًا، يا عبادي، لو أن أولكم وآخركم وإنسكم وجنكم قاموا في صَعِيدٍ واحد فسألوني فأعطيت كلَّ واحدٍ مسألتَه ما نقص ذلك مما عندي إلا كما يَنْقُصُ المِخْيَطُ إذا أُدخل البحر، يا عبادي، إنما هي أعمالكم أُحْصِيها لكم ثم أُوَفِّيكُم إياها فمن وجد خيرًا فليحمد الله ومن وجد غير ذلك فلا يلومن إلا نفسه».
صحيح. رواه مسلم.
Abu Dharr al-Ghifāri (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said that Allah, the Almighty, said: 'O My slaves, I have made oppression forbidden for Myself, and I have made it forbidden amongst you, so do not oppress one another. O My slaves, all of you are misguided except those whom I guide, so seek guidance from Me and I shall guide you. O My slaves, all of you are hungry except those whom I feed, so ask Me for food and I shall feed you. O My slaves, all of you are naked except those whom I clothe, so ask Me for clothes and I shall clothe you. O My slaves, you commit sins by night and by day and I forgive all sins, so ask Me for forgiveness and I shall forgive you. O My slaves, you can neither do Me any harm nor can you do Me any good. O My slaves, if the first and the last amongst you and all humans and Jinns were all as pious as the most pious heart of any individual amongst you, that would add nothing to My power and dominion. O My slaves, if the first and the last amongst you and all humans and Jinns were all as wicked as the most wicked heart of any individual amongst you, it would cause no loss to My power and dominion. O My slaves, if the first and the last amongst you and all humans and Jinn were all to stand together in one place and ask of Me, and I were to give everyone what he requested, then that would not decrease what I possess, except what is decreased of the sea when a needle is dipped into it. O My slaves, it is only your deeds that you will be held accountable for, then I shall recompense you for it. So, anyone finds good, let him praise Allah, and anyone finds other than that, let him blame no one but himself.”
[Muslim] Sahih/Authentic.
Islam Religion of Tolerance
In addition to being a relationship of truth and justice, Islam recommends being at peace with others as long as they have not committed injustice against Muslims. This principle encourages harmony and peaceful coexistence, provided that the rights and dignity of Muslims are respected.
Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.
Islam forbids coercion in matters of religion. Allah, exalted be He, says:
There shall be no compulsion in [acceptance of] the religion. The right course has become clear from the wrong. So whoever disbelieves in Taghut and believes in Allah has grasped the most trustworthy handhold with no break in it. And Allah is Hearing and Knowing.
And say, ’ The truth is from your Lord, so whoever wills - let him believe; and whoever wills - let him disbelieve.’ Indeed, We have prepared for the wrongdoers a fire whose walls will surround them. And if they call for relief, they will be relieved with water like murky oil, which scalds [their] faces. Wretched is the drink, and evil is the resting place.
On the contrary, the Muslims preached Islam and explained its benefits. Those who agreed embraced it, while those who disagreed paid the jizya and remained under the authority of the Muslims. The concordance between Islam and man’s innate nature has led many people to find in this religion a haven of peace and complete justice. The Prophet forbids harming or committing injustice against non-Muslims, reinforcing the principles of tolerance and peaceful coexistence outlined in Islamic teachings.
عن عبد الله بن عمرو -رضي الله عنهما- عن النبي -صلى الله عليه وسلم- قال: «من قَتَلَ مُعَاهَدًا لم يَرَحْ رَائحَةَ الجنة، وإن رِيْحَهَا تُوجَدُ من مَسِيرَة أربعين عامًا».
صحيح. رواه البخاري.
‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Amr (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'Whoever kills a Mu‘āhad shall not smell the fragrance of Paradise, though its fragrance can be smelt at a distance of forty years (of traveling).’’
[Al-Bukhari] Sahih/Authentic.
Islam, the religion of mercy
The message of Islam is in itself a mercy for humanity:
And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds.
The Prophet Muhammad(ﷺ) recalled in several hadiths that mercy and empathy are qualities that Muslims must cultivate:
عن عبد الله بن عمرو -رضي الله عنهما- يبلغ به النبي -صلى الله عليه وسلم-: «الرَّاحمون يرحَمُهمُ الرحمنُ، ارحموا أهلَ الأرضِ، يرحمْكم مَن في السماءِ».
صحيح. رواه أبو داود والترمذي وأحمد.
‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Amr (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'Those who are merciful will be shown mercy by the Most Merciful. Be merciful to those on the earth and the One in the heaven will be merciful to you.'
[At-Tirmidhi] Sahih/Authentic.
عن جرير بن عبد الله -رضي الله عنه- مرفوعاً: «مَنْ لا يَرْحَمِ النَّاسَ لا يَرْحَمْهُ اللهُ».
صحيح. متفق عليه.
Jarīr ibn ‘Abdullāh (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'He who does not show mercy to people, Allah will not show mercy to him.'
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim] Sahih/Authentic.
Islam exhorted to be merciful to the small, the elderly, and the weak:
عن عبد الله بن عمرو بن العاص -رضي الله عنهما- مرفوعاً: «ليس منا من لم يَرحمْ صغيرنا، ويَعرفْ شَرَفَ كبيرنا».
صحيح. رواه أبو داود والترمذي وأحمد.
‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Amr ibn al-‘ās (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'He does not belong to us who does not show mercy to our young and honor our old.'
[At-Tirmidhi] Sahih/Authentic.
Islam, the religion of women’s rights
Before the advent of Islam, women were often considered inferior to men, had virtually no rights, and were frequently mistreated. With the arrival of Islam, all that changed. The religion brought about essential reforms that improved the status of women and granted them rights that were revolutionary for the time.
Islam established women’s right to inheritance, education, and decision-making in marriage and divorce. In addition, Islam condemned practices such as female infanticide, which were widespread in some pre-Islamic societies. These changes underline the importance Islam places on justice and equality, which aligns with its broader teachings on the respect and dignity of all individuals.
عن أبي شريح خويلد بن عمرو الخزاعي و أبي هريرة -رضي الله عنهما- عن رسول الله -صلى الله عليه وسلم- قال: «اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أُحَرِّجُ حَقَّ الضَعِيفَين: اليَتِيم والمَرْأَة».
حسن. حديث أبي شريح رواه النسائي.
وحديث أبي هريرة رواه ابن ماجه وأحمد.
Abu Shurayh Khuwaylid ibn ‘Amr al-Khuzā‘i and Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with both of them) reported that the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'O Allah, I declare strictly inviolable the rights of the two weak ones: the orphan and the woman.'
[Ibn Maajah] Hasan/Sound.
She had no right of inheritance (she herself was inherited), However, Islam changed this practice:
For men is a share of what the parents and close relatives leave, and for women is a share of what the parents and close relatives leave, be it little or much - an obligatory share.
They had no right to knowledge and science; Islam gave them the right to knowledge just as much as man:
Narrated Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri:
Some women requested the Prophet (ﷺ) to fix a day for them as the men were taking all his time. On that he promised them one day for religious lessons and commandments. Once during such a lesson the Prophet said, 'A woman whose three children die will be shielded by them from the Hell fire.' On that a woman asked, 'If only two die?' He replied, 'Even two (will shield her from the Hell-fire). Sahih al-Bukhari 101
The Prophet Mohamed constantly reminded us to be kind to women and to understand their tender and delicate nature:
عن أبي هريرة -رضي الله عنه- قال: قال رسول الله -صلى الله عليه وسلم-: «اسْتَوْصُوا بالنِّساءِ خَيْرًا؛ فَإِنَّ المرأة خُلِقَتْ مِن ضِلعٍ، وَإنَّ أعْوَجَ مَا في الضِّلَعِ أعْلاهُ، فَإنْ ذَهَبتَ تُقيمُهُ كَسَرْتَهُ، وإن تركته، لم يزل أعوج، فاستوصوا بالنساء».
وفي رواية: «المرأة كالضِّلَعِ إنْ أقَمْتَهَا كَسَرْتَهَا، وَإن اسْتَمتَعْتَ بها، استمتعت وفيها عوَجٌ».
وفي رواية: «إنَّ المَرأةَ خُلِقَت مِنْ ضِلَع، لَنْ تَسْتَقِيمَ لَكَ عَلَى طَريقة، فإن استمتعت بها استمتعت بها وفيها عوج، وإنْ ذَهَبْتَ تُقِيمُهَا كَسَرْتَها، وَكَسْرُهَا طَلاَقُهَا».
صحيح. الرواية الأولى: متفق عليها
الرواية الثانية: متفق عليها
الرواية الثالثة: رواها مسلم.
Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'I advise you to treat women kindly, for the woman was created from a rib, and the most crooked part of the rib is its uppermost part. If you try to straighten it, you will break it; and if you leave it, it will remain crooked. So, treat women kindly.'
Another narration reads: 'A woman is like a rib: if you straighten her, you will break her, and if you enjoy her, you will enjoy her as she has some crookedness.'
Another narration reads: 'The woman was created from a rib and will not remain straight for you in any way. So, if you enjoy her, you enjoy her as she has some crookedness. And if you try to straighten her, you will break her, and breaking her is divorcing her.'
[Muslim] Sahih/Authentic.
Islam, the religion of brotherhood
Islam encourages brotherhood between Muslims:
عن أبي هريرة -رضي الله عنه- قال: قال رسول الله -صلى الله عليه وسلم-: «وَالَّذِي نَفْسِي بِيَدِهِ، لاَ تَدْخُلُوا الجَنَّة حَتَّى تُؤْمِنُوا، وَلاَ تُؤْمِنُوا حَتَّى تَحَابُوا، أَوَلاَ أَدُلُّكُم عَلَى شَيءٍ إِذَا فَعَلْتُمُوهُ تَحَابَبْتُم؟ أَفْشُوا السَّلاَم بَينَكُم».
صحيح. رواه مسلم.
Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'By the One in Whose Hand my soul is! You will not enter Paradise until you believe and you will not believe until you love one another other. Shall I tell you of something that, if you do it, you will love one another? Spread the greeting of peace among yourselves.'
[Muslim] Sahih/Authentic.
عن أنس بن مالك -رضي الله عنه- أنَّ رَجُلاً كَانَ عِند النَبِيَّ -صلى الله عليه وسلم- فَمَرَّ رَجُلٌ بِهِ، فقال: يا رسول الله، أنِّي لَأُحِبُّ هَذَا، فَقَال لَهُ النَبِيُّ -صلى الله عليه وسلم-: «أَأَعْلَمْتَهُ؟» قال: لا. قال: «أَعْلِمْهُ»، فَلَحِقَهُ، فقال: إِنِّي أُحِبُّك فِي الله، فقال: أّحَبَّك الَّذِي أَحْبَبْتَنِي لَهُ.
صحيح. رواه أبو داود والنسائي في الكبرى وأحمد.
Anas ibn Mālik (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that a man was with the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) and another man passed by him. He said: 'O Messenger of Allah, I love this man.' The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'Have you told him?' He said: ’No!’ He said: 'Tell him.' He went after him and said: 'I love you for Allah’s sake.' He said: 'May the One you love me for His sake love you!'
[An-Nasaa’i] Sahih/Authentic.
Islam, a religion of love
Marital love holds a special place in Islam, as exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad(ﷺ), who, when asked about the person he loved most in the world, did not hesitate to answer that it was his wife. This response highlights the significant role that love and companionship play within marriage in Islam. The Prophet’s relationship with his wives is often cited as a model of affection, respect, and mutual support, setting a standard for how spouses should treat each other with kindness and consideration.
حَدَّثَنِي عَمْرُو بْنُ الْعَاصِ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ صلى الله عليه وسلم بَعَثَهُ عَلَى جَيْشِ ذَاتِ السَّلاَسِلِ، فَأَتَيْتُهُ فَقُلْتُ أَىُّ النَّاسِ أَحَبُّ إِلَيْكَ قَالَ ' عَائِشَةُ '. فَقُلْتُ مِنَ الرِّجَالِ فَقَالَ ' أَبُوهَا '. قُلْتُ ثُمَّ مَنْ قَالَ ' ثُمَّ عُمَرُ بْنُ الْخَطَّابِ '. فَعَدَّ رِجَالاً.
Narrated `Amr bin Al-As:
The Prophet (ﷺ) deputed me to read the Army of Dhat-as-Salasil. I came to him and said, 'Who is the most beloved person to you?' He said, ' `Aisha.' I asked, 'Among the men?' He said, 'Her father.' I said, 'Who then?' He said, 'Then `Umar bin Al-Khattab.' He then named other men.
Sahih Al Bukhari
The Prophet recommends always seeing the good in your wife:
عن أبي هريرة -رضي الله عنه- مرفوعاً: «لاَ يَفْرَك مُؤْمِنٌ مُؤْمِنَة إِنْ كَرِه مِنْهَا خُلُقًا رَضِيَ مِنْهَا آخَر»، أو قال: «غَيرُه».
صحيح رواه مسلم
Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'Let not a believing man hate a believing woman. If he dislikes one of her characteristics, he will be pleased with another.'
[Muslim] Sahih/Authentic.
Islam, the religion of forgiveness
Forgiveness must precede anger, and this is how Islam teaches us to control our emotions and show mercy:
And hasten to forgiveness from your Lord and a garden as wide as the heavens and earth, prepared for the righteous
عن أبي مسعود البدري -رضي الله عنه- قَال: قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّه -صَلّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وسَلَّم-: «حُوسِب رجُل ممن كان قَبْلَكُمْ، فلم يُوجد له من الخَيْر شيء، إلا أنه كان يُخَالط الناس وكان مُوسِراً، وكان يأمُر غِلْمَانَه أن يَتَجَاوَزُوا عن المُعْسِر، قال الله -عز وجل-: نحن أحَقُّ بذلك منه؛ تَجَاوزُوا عنه».
صحيح. رواه مسلم.
Abu Mas‘ūd al-Badri (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'A man from among those who were before you was called to account (by Allah on the Day of Judgment). No good deeds were found in his record except that he, being a rich man, used to enter into transactions with people and used to command his servants to show leniency towards those who were insolvent. Allah, the Exalted, said: ’We are more entitled to this (leniency) than him. Pardon him.’'
[Muslim] Sahih/Authentic.
Islam, the religion of work
Islam requires us to earn our living lawfully and severely condemns idleness. Idleness is the mother of all vices.
عن أبي هريرة -رضي الله عنه- عن النبي -صلى الله عليه وسلم- قال: «كان داود -عليه السلام- لا يأكلُ إلا من عمل يده».
وعن المقدام بن معد يكرب -رضي الله عنه- عن النبي -صلى الله عليه وسلم- قال: «ما أكل أحد طعاما قط خيرا من أن يأكل من عمل يده، وإن نبي الله داود -صلى الله عليه وسلم- كان يأكل من عمل يده».
صحيحان. حديث أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه: رواه البخاري.
حديث المقداد رضي الله عنه: رواه البخاري.
Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'Dawūd (peace be upon him) used to eat only from the earnings of his own hands.' Al-Miqdām ibn Ma‘d Yakrab (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'No one has ever eaten food better than that which his hands have earned. Indeed, Prophet Dawūd (peace be upon him) used to eat from the earnings of his own hands.'
[Al-Bukhari] Sahih/Authentic with its two versions.
Living off the backs of others (for no justifiable reason) is unworthy of a good, adult Muslim capable of earning a living!
Narrated Anas ibn Malik:
A man of the Ansar came to the Prophet (ﷺ) and begged from him.
He (the Prophet) asked: Have you nothing in your house? He replied: Yes, a piece of cloth, a part of which we wear and a part of which we spread (on the ground), and a wooden bowl from which we drink water.
He said: Bring them to me. He then brought these articles to him and he (the Prophet) took them in his hands and asked: Who will buy these? A man said: I shall buy them for one dirham. He said twice or thrice: Who will offer more than one dirham? A man said: I shall buy them for two dirhams.
He gave these to him and took the two dirhams and, giving them to the Ansari, he said: Buy food with one of them and hand it to your family, and buy an axe and bring it to me. He then brought it to him. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) fixed a handle on it with his own hands and said: Go, gather firewood and sell it, and do not let me see you for a fortnight. The man went away and gathered firewood and sold it. When he had earned ten dirhams, he came to him and bought a garment with some of them and food with the others.
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) then said: This is better for you than that begging should come as a spot on your face on the Day of Judgment. Begging is right only for three people: one who is in grinding poverty, one who is seriously in debt, or one who is responsible for compensation and finds it difficult to pay.
Sunan Abi Dawud 1641
Grade: Da’if (Al-Albani)
Islam, the religion of logic
God has distinguished humans from other beings by endowing them with reason. It is the reason that enables us to discern the true from the false and the good from the evil. Islam emphasizes the importance of using reason to understand the world and to meet the Creator.
This call to employ rational thought underpins many aspects of Islamic teachings, encouraging believers to reflect on the signs of God in the universe and to seek knowledge that leads to a deeper understanding of their faith and existence.
Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding.
Islam, the religion of science and knowledge
According to Wikipedia, AL Biruni, a Muslim scholar: “Mathematician, astronomer, physicist, encyclopedist, philosopher, astrologer, traveler, historian, pharmacologist and tutor, he contributed greatly to the fields of mathematics, philosophy, medicine, and science. He is best known for studying the thesis of the Earth’s rotation around its axis and its revolution around the Sun. “
Islam indeed encourages the pursuit of scientific knowledge. This encouragement is rooted in the Quran, which repeatedly urges followers to reflect on the natural world to understand Allah’s creation and magnificence. The Quranic verses often mention the importance of using reason and observation to recognize the signs of Allah in the universe, thus promoting a culture of knowledge and inquiry.
Say, [O Muhammad], ’ Travel through the land and observe how He began creation. Then Allah will produce the final creation. Indeed Allah, over all things, is competent.’
Historically, this has led to significant advancements in various fields during the Islamic Golden Age, including mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and philosophy. Scholars like Al-Khwarizmi, Al-Biruni, and Ibn Sina made groundbreaking contributions that have had a lasting impact on both the Islamic world and the West. This tradition underscores Islam’s recognition of the value of scientific exploration and its role in helping humans appreciate the intricacies of the world they inhabit.
Islam, the religion of happiness (the real one)
In Islam, the term “Toumaanina” (طمأنينة) refers to contentment, a state of inner peace and calm that remains unaffected by external events. A deep sense of satisfaction transcends mere happiness, providing a steady, profound tranquility within an individual’s heart and mind.
Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.’
While the English term “contentment” captures the essence of toumaanina, the French translation as “satisfaction” might imply a slightly different shade of meaning, focusing more on fulfilling needs or expectations. However, Toumaanina, in the Islamic context, is more about achieving a serene acceptance and quiet joy that permeates one’s, regardless of the surrounding circumstances. This spiritual contentment is highly valued in Islam and is seen as a sign of deep faith and trust in Allah’s plan.
Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer - We will surely cause him to live a good life, and We will surely give them their reward [in the Hereafter] according to the best of what they used to do.
Sheikh AL Islam Ibn Taymiya, the eminent scholar of Islam, sums up this state of untouchable peace of mind:
“What can my enemies do to me? Me, my Paradise and its Garden are in my chest wherever I go, they are with me and never separate from me. My imprisonment is isolation, my death would make me a martyr, and exile from my country would be an excursion.”
Ibn Taymiya
Islam, the religion of equality and social justice
America needs to understand Islam because this is the one religion that erases from its society the race problem. Throughout my travels in the Muslim world, I have met, talked to, and even eaten with people who in America would have been considered white, but the white attitude was removed from their minds by the religion of Islam
Malcolm X
عن أبي نضرة حدثني من سمع خطبة رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم في وسط أيام التشريق فقال يا أيها الناس ألا إن ربكم واحد وإن أباكم واحد ألا لا فضل لعربي على أعجمي ولا لعجمي على عربي ولا لأحمر على أسود ولا أسود على أحمر إلا بالتقوى
رواه أحمد
During the pilgrimage towards the end of his life, the Prophet ﷺ declared:
O People, your Lord is One, and your father (Ādam) is one. Verily, there is no superiority of an Arab over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab over an Arab. There is no superiority of a white over a black nor a black over a white. Only piety causes one to excel.
Musnad Aḥmad: no. 22978
A man from the Copts approached Omar ibn al-Khattab in Al-Madinah and said, “O Commander of the Faithful! I seek refuge in you from oppression.”
Omar replied, “You have sought refuge where it is to be sought.”
An Egyptian man recounted, “I was racing against the son of `Amr ibn al-`Aas and I defeated him. Afterward, he began to beat me with a whip, claiming, ‘I am the Son of Nobles!'” In response, Omar wrote to `Amr, ordering him to bring his son before him. Both `Amr and his son then appeared before Omar.
Omar inquired, “Where is the Egyptian? He is to take the whip and beat him!” Then the Egyptian began to beat the son of `Amr with the whip as `Umar said to him, “Beat the Son of Nobles!” Anas said, “So he beat him. I swear by Allah, as he was beating him, we pitied his wailing. He did not desist until we stopped him.”
Omar instructed the Egyptian, “Now strike Amr’s bald head!” The Egyptian responded, “O Commander of the Faithful! It was Amr’s son who struck me, and I have avenged myself.”
Omar said to `Amr, “Since when do you enslave people when their mothers bore them as free individuals?” `Amr replied, “O Commander of the Faithful! I was unaware of this, and he did not come to me seeking justice.”
Islam, a religion of cleanliness
Islam places significant emphasis on cleanliness and purification, both spiritual and physical. It uniquely mandates its followers to perform ablutions, known as Wudu, at least five times a day before the five daily prayers. This ritual involves cleansing specific body parts, such as the hands, mouth, nostrils, arms, head, and feet, symbolizing a purification process that prepares one for communion with God.
Additionally, Islam requires a full bath, known as Ghusl, after certain events, including intercourse with one’s spouse. This comprehensive cleansing signifies a return to a state of spiritual purity. Ghusl is also recommended before the main congregational prayer on Friday, known as Jumu’ah, further emphasizing the importance of cleanliness.
These practices highlight how deeply cleanliness is woven into the fabric of Islamic life, reflecting its significance physically and as an integral part of faith and worship.
عن عائشة -رضي الله عنها- مرفوعاً: «عَشْرٌ من الفِطْرة: قَصُّ الشَارب، وإعْفَاء اللِّحْية، والسِّواك، وَاسْتِنْشَاقُ الماء، وقص الأظْفَار، وغَسْل البَرَاجِم، ونَتْف الإبْط، وحلق العَانة، وانْتِقَاصُ الماء» قال الراوي: ونَسِيْتُ العاشرة إلا أن تكون المَضْمَضَة. قال وكِيع - وهو أحد رواته - انْتِقَاص الماء: يعني الاسْتِنْجَاء.
صحيح. رواه مسلم.
‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'Ten practices are part of the Fitrah: Trimming the mustache, letting the beard grow, using the toothstick (tooth-stick), rinsing the nose, trimming the nails, washing the finger joints, plucking the armpit hairs, shaving the pubic hair, and washing the private parts with water (after answering the call of nature).' One of the narrators said: 'I have forgotten the tenth; except if it was rinsing the mouth.'
[Muslim] Sahih/Authentic.
Islam also recommends beautiful ornaments and clothes whenever possible:
عن عبد الله بن مسعود -رضي الله عنه- عن النبيِّ -صلى الله عليه وسلم-، قَالَ: «لا يدخلُ الجنةَ مَن كان في قلبه مِثقال ذرةٍ من كِبر» فقال رجل: إنّ الرجلَ يحب أن يكون ثوبه حسنا، ونَعله حسنة؟ قال: «إنّ الله جميلٌ يحب الجمالَ، الكِبر: بَطَرُ الحق وغَمْطُ الناس».
صحيح. رواه مسلم.
‘Abdullāh ibn Mas‘ūd (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'Anyone has an atom’s weight of arrogance in his heart will not enter Paradise.' A man said:' What if one likes his clothes and shoes to look good?' He said: 'Verily, Allah is beautiful and He loves beauty. Arrogance is to reject the truth and look down on people.'
[Muslim] Sahih/Authentic.
Narrated Jabir ibn Abdullah:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) paid visit to us, and saw a dishevelled man whose hair was disordered. He said: Could this man not find something to make his hair lie down? He saw another man wearing dirty clothes and said: Could this man not find something to wash his garments with.
Sunan Abi Dawud 4062
Abu al-Ahwas quoted his father saying: I came to the Prophet (ﷺ) wearing a poor garment and he said (to me): Have you any property? He replied: Yes. He asked: What kind is it? He said: Allah has given me camels. Sheep, horses and slaves. He then said: When Allah gives you property, let the mark of Allah’s favour and honour to you be seen.
Sunan Abi Dawud 4063
Grade: Sahih (Al-Albani)
Islam, the religion of order
عَنْ جَابِرِ بْنِ سَمُرَةَ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ' أَلاَ تَصُفُّونَ كَمَا تَصُفُّ الْمَلاَئِكَةُ عِنْدَ رَبِّهِمْ جَلَّ وَعَزَّ ' . قُلْنَا وَكَيْفَ تَصُفُّ الْمَلاَئِكَةُ عِنْدَ رَبِّهِمْ قَالَ ' يُتِمُّونَ الصُّفُوفَ الْمُقَدَّمَةَ وَيَتَرَاصُّونَ فِي الصَّفِّ ' .
jabir b. Samurah reported the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) as saying: Why do you stand in rows as the angels do in the presence of their Lord? We asked: how do the angles stand in rows in the presence of their Lord? He replied: they make the first row complete and keep close together in the row.
Sunan Abi Dawud 661
Grade: Sahih (Al-Albani)
And strive for Allah with the striving due to Him. He has chosen you and has not placed upon you in the religion any difficulty. [It is] the religion of your father, Abraham. Allah named you ’ Muslims’ before [in former scriptures] and in this [revelation] that the Messenger may be a witness over you and you may be witnesses over the people. So establish prayer and give zakah and hold fast to Allah. He is your protector; and excellent is the protector, and excellent is the helper.
Idolatry is not the only obstacle from which the Prophet Muhammad(ﷺ) freed believers. He also liberated them from all that could harm them, encouraged them to adopt the simplest and best way of life, and provided solutions to all their problems. This is why those who follow the Sunnah (the practices and teachings) of the Messenger of Allah live in peace and serenity. Here are some examples of hadiths that illustrate this:
عَنْ أَبِي مُوسَى، قَالَ كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم إِذَا بَعَثَ أَحَدًا مِنْ أَصْحَابِهِ فِي بَعْضِ أَمْرِهِ قَالَ ' بَشِّرُوا وَلاَ تُنَفِّرُوا وَيَسِّرُوا وَلاَ تُعَسِّرُوا ' .صحيح مسلم
It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Masa that when the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) deputed any of his Companions on a mission, he would say: Give tidings (to the people) ; do not create (in their minds) aversion (towards religion) ; show them leniency and do not be hard upon them.
Sahih Muslim 1732
عن عائشة -رضي الله عنها- مرفوعاً: ما خُيِّر رسول الله -صلى الله عليه وسلم- بين أمرين قط إلا أخذ أيسرهما، ما لم يكن إثما، فإن كان إثما، كان أبعد الناس منه، وما انتقم رسول الله -صلى الله عليه وسلم- لنفسه في شيء قط، إلا أن تُنْتهَك حرمة الله، فينتقم لله -تعالى-.
صحيح. متفق عليه.
‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported: Whenever the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) was given the choice between two things, he would choose the easier of the two unless it was a sin. If it were a sin, he would be the farthest of people from it. The Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) never took revenge for himself, but when the prohibitions of Allah were violated, he would take revenge for the sake of Allah, the Almighty.
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim] Sahih/Authentic.
عن أبي هريرة -رضي الله عنه- قال: قال النبي -صلى الله عليه وسلم-: «إن الدين يسر، ولن يشاد الدين إلا غلبه، فسددوا وقاربوا وأبشروا، واستعينوا بالغدوة والروحة وشيء من الدلجة».
وفي رواية: «سددوا وقاربوا، واغدوا وروحوا، وشيء من الدلجة، القصد القصد تبلغوا».
صحيح. رواه البخاري.
Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'Indeed, the religion is easy. No one overburdens himself with the religion but he will be overwhelmed by it. So be moderate in your religion; if you can’t reach perfection, try to be near to it and receive the glad tidings that you will be rewarded. Take benefit of the morning, evening, and part of the night (to worship Allah).'
Another narration reads: “Do your duties as good as you can and try to be near to perfection; make use of the morning, evening, and part of the night. Be moderate, be moderate and you will reach your goal.'
[Al-Bukhari] Sahih/Authentic.
Islam, the religion of the council ( Choura )
Tyranny has no place in Islam, and those who hold power are required to seek advice from qualified persons. This principle emphasizes the importance of consultation and collective decision-making in governance, known in Arabic as “Shura.” By involving knowledgeable and just advisors, leaders ensure that their decisions are balanced, fair, and in the best interest of the community they serve. This approach helps prevent the misuse of power and promotes a just and inclusive society.
And those who have responded to their lord and established prayer and whose affair is [determined by] consultation among themselves, and from what We have provided them, they spend.
So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him].
Islam, the religion of the golden mean
When we say that Islam is a religion of the middle way, this concept is derived from a verse in the Quran that reads:
And thus we have made you a just community that you will be witnesses over the people and the Messenger will be a witness over you. And We did not make the qiblah which you used to face except that We might make evident who would follow the Messenger from who would turn back on his heels. And indeed, it is difficult except for those whom Allah has guided. And never would Allah have caused you to lose your faith. Indeed Allah is, to the people, Kind and Merciful.
This verse emphasizes the importance of moderation in every aspect of life, positioning Muslims as a balanced and fair community that exemplifies this middle path between extremes. Being “Ummatun Wasatan” is fundamental in guiding how Muslims approach ethics, justice, personal conduct, and worship, aiming to maintain balance and moderation.
And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.
Islam promotes the idea of an “Ummah,” a global community of Muslims who are united by their faith and shared moral values. This concept is intended to transcend geographical and cultural barriers and foster solidarity among Muslims worldwide.
Moreover, Islam’s teachings encourage the resolution of conflicts and emphasize reconciliation as essential for community cohesion and harmony. The unity promoted by Islam aims to create a society where all members support one another in righteousness and piety, adhering to the principles laid out by the Quran and the Sunnah (traditions of the Prophet Muhammad(ﷺ)). Islam seeks to unite individuals, communities, and nations through its principles and practices in mutual respect and cooperation.
Islam, religion of Solidarity
Solidarity among society’s various components is a vital aspect of Islam. This begins with the fundamental commandment to treat one’s parents respectfully and kindly. The Quran greatly emphasizes filial piety, considering it is second only to Allah’s worship. Respect for parents is not just a moral duty but also a spiritual one, reflecting the broader Islamic principles of compassion, kindness, and community cohesion.
The Quran explicitly instructs Muslims to show gratitude to their parents, especially when they reach old age, ensuring they are treated with the utmost care and dignity.
And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], ’ uff,’ and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.
The Quran specifically instructs Muslims to treat orphans with fairness and kindness:
Quran Soura 93 Aya 9 :
فَأَمَّا الْيَتِيمَ فَلَا تَقْهَرْ
So as for the orphan, do not oppress [him].
The Prophet Muhammad stressed the blessings associated with caring for orphans in several hadiths :
Ibn ’Abbas narrated that: the Prophet said: Whoever takes in an orphan among the Muslims to raise, to feed him and give him drink, Allah admits him into Paradise without a doubt, unless he has done a sin for which he is not forgiven.'
Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1917
Grade: Da’if (Darussalam)
وعن سهل بن سعيد رضي الله عنه: قال رسول صلى الله عليه وسلم: ' أنا وكافل اليتيم في الجنة هكذا' وأشار بالسبابة والوسطى، وفرج بينهما. ((رواه البخاري)).
Sahl bin Sa’d (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, 'I will be like this in Jannah with the person who takes care of an orphan'. Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) raised his forefinger and middle finger by way of illustration. [Al- Bukhari].
Riyad as-Salihin 262
Islam encouraSolidarityrity with the other components of society :
[Saying], ’ We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.
Islam, a religion of noble behavior
Islam recommends good behavior for believers:
عن أبي هريرة -رضي الله عنه- قال: قال رسول الله -صلى الله عليه وسلم-: «أكْثَرُ مَا يُدْخِلُ الْجَنَّةَ تَقْوَى اللَّهِ وَحُسْنُ الْخُلُقِ».
حسن صحيح. رواه الترمذي.
Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'The most frequent deeds that lead people to Paradise are piety and good manners.'
[At-Tirmidhi] Hasan Sahih /Sound-Authentic.
عن ابن مسعود -رضي الله عنه- مرفوعاً: «ألا أخبركم بمن يحرم على النار؟ أو بمن تحرم عليه النار؟ تحرم على كل قريب هَيِّنٍ لَيِّنٍ سهل».
صحيح. رواه الترمذي وأحمد.
Ibn Mas‘ūd (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'Shall I not inform of whom Hellfire is forbidden for? Or he is forbidden for Hellfire? It is forbidden for someone who is accessible, lenient, tender, and easy to get along with.'
[At-Tirmidhi] Sahih/Authentic.
عن أبي هريرة -رضي الله عنه- قال: قال رسول الله -صلى الله عليه وسلم-: «أكْثَرُ مَا يُدْخِلُ الْجَنَّةَ تَقْوَى اللَّهِ وَحُسْنُ الْخُلُقِ».
حسن صحيح. رواه الترمذي.
Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'The most frequent deeds that lead people to Paradise are piety and good manners.'
[At-Tirmidhi] Hasan Sahih /Sound-Authentic.
Islam a religion of clarity
Nothing is ambiguous in Islam; everything is clear and rational. Will Durant beautifully supports this perspective in his book The Story of Civilization, where he explores various aspects of historical developments, including those in Islamic societies :
“The Quran inculcates in minds the easiest, least ambiguous beliefs, the furthest removed from the observance of religious ceremonials and commemorations, the most emancipated from both paganism and priesthood. He deserves the highest consideration in raising the behavioral and cultural level of Muslims. He is the one who established among Muslims the rules of social organization and unity, urged them to follow sanitary rules, freed their minds from many superstitions and illusions, from injustice and harshness, improved the situation of slaves and aroused in the souls of despicable people, dignity and greatness. He has created among Muslims a level of moderation and distancing from passions that has never been equalled in any part of the earth inhabited by the white man”.
