The significance of good character in Good character in Islam

In the name of , the Gracious, the Merciful • Good character, morals, ethics, and manners are fundamental to the religion of Islam and the means by which one can achieve salvation in the life to come • Good character is a major theme in the teachings of the and the traditions of the Prophet (pbuh). True righteousness is defined by it and the best are those who practice it • The believers with the most complete faith, who are most beloved by Allah and His Messenger, are those with the best character

What is good character in Islam?

• The commentators say the “great moral character” mentioned in the verse of the Quran (Surat al-Qalam 68:4) states how Allah ingrained within the Prophet (pbuh) great character traits of modesty, generosity, courage, forgiveness, forbearance and every beautiful trait.

Mission of the Prophet Muhammad

• The primary mission of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was to instill good character in every aspect of the lives of people • The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said:

“I have been sent to perfect good character.” (al-Muwaṭṭa 1614)

Spiritual and Practical

• With respect to Allah, good character means adhering to the sound creed (aqeedah) and performing acts of (ibadah)

• With respect to people, good character means being just, merciful, forgiving, kind and patient in our interactions with others (mu’amalat) Teachings of the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh)

• The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said:

“The most beloved of you to Allah is the best of you in character” (Bukhari)

“There is nothing weightier in the scales than good morals and manners.” (Abu Dawood)

“Truly, the believer can reach, by means of good manners and morals, the degree of one who constantly fasts.” (Abu Dawood)

Teachings of the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh)

• The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said:

“The most evil in my nation are garrulous, braggarts, and pompous. The best of my nation are those with the best character.” (al- al-Mufrad 1308)

“Verily, the believers with the most complete faith are those with the most excellent character and who are most kind to their families.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi 2612)

“The most complete of the believers in faith are those with the most excellent character, and the best of you are the best in behaviour to their women.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi 1162)