Akhlaq, Morality, and Manners: The True Treasures of Society
If we observe our society today, we find that tranquility and serenity are missing from the hearts of people. Upon analysis, we can identify several reasons for this; however, one of the most prominent causes is the loss of Akhlaq.
If we develop high morals and Akhlaq, many of the issues that cause negativity, stress, depression, and heartache in society would automatically fade away. The importance of Akhlaq in our religion is paramount. It is not enough to be concerned solely with one’s acts of worship and personal beliefs; Islam commands us to develop superior Akhlaq and provides detailed guidance on how to interact with others.
This is the essence of our religion, and it is what is most beloved in the sight of Allah (SWT). Our beloved leader, our Kareem, our Master Muhammad ﷺ informed us:
إِنَّ مِنْ خِيَارِكُمْ أَحْسَنَكُمْ أَخْلَاقًا
“Verily, the best of you are those who have the best Akhlaq.”
(Sahih Bukhari, 3366)
He also said:
ما من شيءٍ أثقلُ في ميزانِ المؤمنِ يومَ القيامةِ من خُلقٍ حسنٍ، وإن اللهَ يُبغِضُ الفاحشَ البذيءَ
“Nothing is heavier upon the scale of the believer on the Day of Resurrection than good Akhlaq. Verily, Allah hates the vulgar, obscene person.”
(Sunan al-Tirmidhi, 2002 – Sahih)
Once, the Prophet ﷺ asked his companions:
“Shall I tell you about the most beloved to me and the closest to my assembly on the Day of Resurrection?”
They said, “Yes, O Messenger of Allah.”
The Prophet ﷺ replied:
أَحَاسِنُكُمْ أَخْلَاقًا
“Those with the best Akhlaq.”
(Musnad Ahmad, 6696 – Sahih)
From these traditions, it is clear how much emphasis Islam places on developing lofty Akhlaq. It is truly unfortunate that we are losing this treasure of morality in our communities. A serious and sincere effort is needed to regain this wealth and become the kind of people our beloved Master ﷺ wanted us to be.
This book by SAMA-O-BASR Publications is a humble effort in this direction.
It is a translation of a booklet written by one of the most prolific writers of the modern era: Maulana Syed Abul A’la Maududi, whose services to Islam need no introduction.
Described by Wilfred Cantwell Smith as “the most systematic thinker of modern Islam,” Maulana Maududi’s extensive works cover Qur’anic exegesis, Hadith, law, philosophy, and history. His writings have been translated into many languages and continue to enlighten millions across the globe, even long after his passing.
This book is the English translation of Syed Maududi’s book Tameer-e-Akhlaq: Kyun aur Kaisay, which examines morality from a systemic perspective. It urges readers not only to reflect on their own Akhlaq at the personal level but also to contribute toward enhancing morality at the collective level throughout society.
The book identifies the problems and presents thought-provoking solutions, connecting them to the timeless principles of the rise and fall of civilizations.
Readers are also encouraged to consult another important work by Maulana Maududi titled “Ethical Viewpoint of Islam”. These two books, when read together, will provide a solid foundation for understanding the Islamic ethical system, In Sha Allah.
May Allah (SWT) accept this effort as Sadaqah Jariyah for all involved, and may it help in improving the Akhlaq of each of us and everyone who benefits from it.
19 September 2020
Muhammad Nabeel Musharraf
SAMA-O-BASR Publications
A Project of iCAN, Australia
