Page 29 - The Importance of Following the Good Word

moral excellence is a blessing, granted by Allah only to His
modest and obedient servants. As a result, believers benefit
also from the blessings brought about by mutual friendship,
brotherhood, modesty and sincerity.
It is not only the weaknesses, shortcomings or mistakes
which believers warn one another about. Their common goal
is to earn Allah's good pleasure. They already possess ad-
mirable qualities like good morality, spiritual profundity,
and sincerity. However, they are not self-satisfied with these;
they still aim to better themselves, and encourage one an-
other to this end. And, no matter what the issue, believers
heed advice with submission every time they receive it, for
they know that these words and solutions are from the
Qur'an, and are means to help them attain Paradise.
Another factor which makes these admonitions beneficial
is the believers' aim of seeking Allah's good pleasure, rather
than the approval of others, and their determination in
telling the truth. This is also the case with those matters
which go against one's lower-self. What is important is the
benefit their words will bring; they aim to be instrumental in
the correction of the other person's mistakes, and allowing
him to draw nearer to Allah. To this end, believers state
frankly what is good, without hesitation. Yet, behind this
frankness, there is always respect, compassion and mercy.
Before offering some advice with regard to some weakness or
failure, stated in the light of the Qur'an, they first consider
how they are to say such things so as to be most effective and
beneficial. When speaking, they try to be easy on the believ-
ers, though through with the "best words," they reflect, and
plan, striving always to be helpful to other believers.

Complying with the Good Word 27