Noble Character
Akhlaq Mahmudah (Praiseworthy Character)
Akhlaq refers to a person’s behavior or character. Islam strongly emphasizes the importance of good character.
Noble Qualities of the Prophets
1. Siddiq (Truthfulness)
Definition: Being truthful in words and deeds, not lying.
Application: - Honest in speaking - Honest in transactions - Honest in work - Not deceiving others
Hadith: > “Indeed truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise.” (Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim)
2. Amanah (Trustworthiness)
Definition: Keeping trust given, being responsible.
Application: - Keeping secrets entrusted - Returning items borrowed - Fulfilling promises - Being responsible for duties
3. Tabligh (Conveying)
Definition: Conveying the truth, spreading the message.
Application: - Inviting to goodness - Preventing evil - Sharing beneficial knowledge - Advising in a good manner
4. Fathonah (Intelligence)
Definition: Being wise and intelligent in making decisions.
Application: - Think before acting - Seeking knowledge - Solving problems wisely - Using common sense
Other Praiseworthy Qualities
Patience (Sabr)
Types of Patience: 1. Patience in obeying Allah 2. Patience in refraining from sin 3. Patience during trials
Quranic Verse: > “Indeed, Allah is with the patient.” (QS. Al-Baqarah: 153)
Gratitude (Shukr)
Ways to Show Gratitude: 1. With the heart - Acknowledging blessings from Allah 2. With the tongue - Saying Alhamdulillah 3. With actions - Using blessings for good
Sincerity (Ikhlas)
Doing something solely for Allah’s sake, without expecting praise or reward from people.
Hadith: > “Indeed, actions are judged by intentions.” (Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim)
Humility (Tawadhu)
Not being arrogant, not looking down on others, acknowledging one’s shortcomings.
Generosity
Eager to give, not stingy, helping those in need.
Forgiveness
Forgiving others’ mistakes, not holding grudges.
Quranic Verse: > “Let them pardon and overlook. Would you not love for Allah to forgive you?” (QS. An-Nur: 22)
Ways to Build Noble Character
- Consistent in worship - Prayer, reading Quran, dhikr
- Associate with righteous people
- Study the character of Prophet Muhammad SAW
- Self-reflection (muhasabah)
- Pray to Allah
- Read books on character
Hadith of the Prophet SAW:
“The most perfect believer in faith is the one with the best character.” (Narrated by Ahmad and Tirmidhi)