Tajdeed

Bismillah

Without a doubt, the quality of altruism and selflessness is amongst the noblest of virtues in life. The importance, superiority and nobility of this virtue is so self-evident that even nations who conform to more individualistic societies will attest to this fact of life and those who live life selfishly and lavishly attest to the value of this quality either consciously or subconsciously.

Altruism is the greatest form of generosity, the generous man gives from himself, but the selfless person gives his own self for the sake of what is right!

Islam through the Qur’an and the example of the Prophet Muhammad emphasises on the importance of self-sacrifice and altruism. In fact, it could easily be argued that one of the reasons for the existence of diversity, free-will and the existence of evil is for the noblemen to reach the high station of philanthropy, altruism, and leadership.

What is altruism according to the Qur’an?

“They give preference to them over themselves – even concerning the things that they themselves urgently need.” (Qur’an 59:9)

Isn’t this truly amazing? Imagine giving from one’s self even when in need!? I Thank God for the existence of neediness, through this negative reality, God allows noblemen to manifest the great quality of selflessness.

Moreover, the Qur’an says: “They feed the destitute, the orphans, and captives for the love of Allah, saying: We only feed you for the sake of Allah and we do not want any reward or thanks from you (Qur’an 76:9).”

How great are the status of these chosen people? They prioritise closeness to God and the action of virtue over impulsive temporary pleasures and needs of the world.

“By no means shall you attain righteousness unless you spend of that which you love….” (Quran 3:92)

In life, the true faithful believer will truly become virtuous after sacrificing one’s desires and needs for the sake of God, virtue and helping beings other than him.

O believers I advise you to think of others before yourselves. Through this you will gain more love for one another, which will bring you unity, strength and then authority.

After all, the Prophet Ibrahim attained the station of Imamate after he showed that he was willing to sacrifice the most beloved thing to him, his own child!

“And when his Lord tried Ibrahim with certain kalimat (words), and he fulfilled them, He said: ‘I am making you the Imam of mankind.’ Said he: ‘And from among my descendants?’ He said: ‘My pledge does not extend to the unjust” (Qur’an 2:124)

By Abul Hasan al-Gabikani al-Shadi al-Shaddadi al-Hadhabani -al-Kurdi