EXCELLENCE IN CHARACTER

The Prophet of Islam stands as a moral example for everyone. His character represents the highest standard for the community to follow. The Quran describes his character in these words: “You are truly of a sublime character.” (68:4)

Similarly, a prophetic tradition states, “Do not be like those who say: ‘If people treat us well, we will do the same, and if they wrong us, we will wrong them in return.’ Instead, train yourselves to say: ‘If people treat us well, we will respond with kindness, and if they mistreat us, we will still not commit injustice.’” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith No. 2007)

To treat good with good and bad with bad is transactional behaviour. This kind of morality holds no value in the sight of God. A person who takes the return for his actions in this world has already settled his account here. What value would such an action hold in the Hereafter?

True character is that which is principled, not driven by benefit or convenience. Superior character means rising above how others treat you and acting on principle. It is not about repaying wrong with wrong or kindness with kindness, but about treating morality as a constant standard. Such a person determines their behaviour based on their own values, not the actions of others. They treat everyone well, even if others treat them poorly.

This is the standard of character that God has approved for the believers. It reflects that a person is guided by principle. Circumstances do not shape such character, but it is shaped by a deliberate and thoughtful commitment to moral values.