Sometimes, we don’t start with the Qur'an. Our journey begins elsewhere, through the tests of life and the choices we make. In these moments, being human isn’t about outward actions dictated by religious law; it’s about the ethical foundation we build within. This is the test: to nurture humanity even without the divine guidance of the Qur'an. When one succeeds in this, Allah bestows the Qur'an as a further mercy, a guide to elevate and refine that innate morality.
Humanity doesn’t depend solely on adherence to religious rituals. As the wisdom of the Holy Prophet (SAW) reminds us, “Do not look at their prayers or their fasts; look at their ethics.” True piety is found not just in outward observance, but in the depth of one’s character. Ethics and morality emerge from conscious effort, from nurturing oneself in ways that align with the divine will. It’s this intention and effort, this striving for alignment with what is right, that truly transforms the soul.
This highlights a crucial point: not everyone’s responsibility is the same. A saint, whose lineage connects all the way back to Adam, alayhi salam, carries a far greater burden, one that is encoded in their very being. As Imam Ali (RA) beautifully said, “If you understood the reality of people, you would never judge them.” This wisdom calls for empathy over judgment, understanding the unique circumstances and challenges that shape each individual’s journey.
In a world where many are striving for justice and moral clarity without direct access to religious guidance, we must remember that humanity is not defined solely by external rituals. Rather, it is our internal efforts to align with what is right, our nurturing of that inner morality, that brings us closer to the divine. This understanding requires sensitivity to the diverse paths people take, helping them grow according to their unique starting points, without rushing to judge.
When we help others nurture their ethical foundation, we are not just assisting them in moral refinement—we are guiding them toward a deeper connection with the divine.
Further Reading:
- “The Heart of Islam” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr – A deep dive into how ethics and spirituality are intertwined in Islamic teachings.
- “The Road to Character” by David Brooks – Explores the importance of developing internal virtues and ethics over time.
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