Relationship with God (Allah)
Being Muslim encompasses a deep-rooted respect and devotion towards Allah, marked by several key attitudes and behaviours:
- Optimism and Positive Thinking: Muslims are encouraged to remain optimistic, viewing life's challenges as opportunities for growth and remembering that Allah is always supportive and just.
‘How amazing is the state of the believer for there is good for him in every matter and this is not the case with anyone except the believer. If he is happy, then he thanks Allah and thus there is good for him, and if he is harmed, then he shows patience and thus there is good for him.’ - Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him)
- Thinking Well of Allah: This involves having good assumptions about Allah, trusting in His plans, and believing that He wants the best for His creations, even in trying times.
- Hope in God’s Mercy: A Muslim should always hope for Allah's mercy and forgiveness, acknowledging His infinite compassion and readiness to forgive.
Allah Most High says, ‘I am as My servant thinks of Me, and I am with him when he calls upon Me.’
- Gratitude: Expressing gratitude towards Allah for His countless blessings, both big and small, reinforces a Muslim's faith and reliance on Him.
- Patience and Trust: Patience in adversity and trust in Allah’s wisdom are central to a Muslim’s conduct, showing unwavering faith in the face of life’s uncertainties.
Quran 103:1-3
By the ˹passage of˺ time!
Surely humanity is in ˹grave˺ loss,
except those who have faith, do good, and urge each other to the truth, and urge each other to perseverance.
- Seeking Forgiveness: Muslims are encouraged to regularly seek Allah's forgiveness for their sins, no matter the magnitude. This is based on the belief that Allah is the Most Forgiving and Merciful, and He wipes away sins completely when approached with sincere repentance.
- Regular Prayer: Performing the five daily prayers is essential for maintaining a Muslim's bond with Allah. These prayers, spread throughout the day, offer moments of pause for gratitude, reflection, and seeking guidance, thus deepening the believer's faith and devotion.
Manners of a Muslim
A Muslim should strive to be a role model in their character and the way they conduct themselves, having traits such as:
- Honesty and Integrity: Muslims are expected to uphold honesty in all dealings, reflecting their integrity and trustworthiness
- Modesty: Modesty in behaviour, dress, and speech is valued, symbolizing dignity and respect for oneself and others.
- Generosity: Loving for others what you love for yourself and giving in charity are emphasised teachings.
- Dutifulness to Parents: Islam places immense importance on respecting and caring for one’s parents, viewing it as a sign of gratitude both to them and to Allah.
- Honouring Guests: Showing generosity and hospitality to guests, treating them with honour and kindness, is a highly regarded practice in Islam.
- Forgiveness and Compassion: Being quick to forgive and extending compassion to others, even when wronged, is encouraged, reflecting the mercy Allah extends to His creations.
- Helping Others: Islam teaches its followers to assist those in need, whether through charity, volunteering, or emotional support, exemplifying the faith's communal spirit.
- Speaking Good or Remaining Silent: Muslims are taught to speak words of kindness and truth, or to remain silent if they cannot say something positive, promoting a culture of positivity and respect.
- Being Just: Islam mandates fairness and justice in all dealings. Justice is not only a moral virtue but also an obligation, mirroring the divine justice of Allah.
Quran 4:135
O believers! Stand firm for justice as witnesses for Allah even if it is against yourselves, your parents, or close relatives.
- Cleanliness: Islam emphasizes both physical and spiritual cleanliness as essential aspects of faith. Muslims are encouraged to maintain personal hygiene, a clean environment, and purity of heart.
‘Cleanliness is half of faith’ - Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him)
These outlined manners represent just a few of the fundamental values a Muslim should strive to embody in their life. It's important to recognize that everyone has their shortcomings and challenges. In Islam, what is most valued is the sincere effort, integrity, and continuous striving towards improvement and adherence to these principles. We are not expected to achieve perfection but are encouraged to persistently work towards becoming better individuals for the sake of Allah.