Page 175 - Mary: An Exemplary Muslim Woman

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reality, however, power based on this world's impermanent values can
disappear just as quickly as it appeared.
Muslims derive their power from their faith, and so their power

never changes. This is an important factor in the character of Muslim
women, and Allah describes it in the following terms:
O you who believe! If any of you renounce your religion, Allah will
bring forward a people whom He loves and who love Him, humble to
the believers, fierce to the unbelievers, who strive in the Way of Allah
and do not fear the blame of any censurer. That is the unbounded favor
of Allah, which He gives to whoever He wills. Allah is Boundless, All-
Knowing. (Surat al-Ma'ida: 54)
Another important Islamic character trait revealed here is the be-

lievers' strong personality, which can withstand the criticism of people.
Muslims know very well that all Prophets were accused and persecuted,
made to suffer and forced to emigrate, or even martyred. Nevertheless,
these Prophets are the believers' role models, due to their strong, endur-
ing, and solid personalities, as well as their patience and determination.
As Allah reveals, Muslims know that they will be tested in this life
through hardship, suffering, and insulting words: "You will be tested in
your wealth and in yourselves, and you will hear many abusive words
from those given the Book before you and from those who associate
[others with Allah]. But if you are steadfast and guard against evil,
that is the most resolute course to take" (Surah Al 'Imran: 186). They
will regard all such events as opportunities to prove their faith in Allah,
their surrender and loyalty to Him, and will endure them with determi-
nation and patience.

They never show the weaknesses of unbelieving women. No one's
insults, rude behavior, or criticism causes them to lose heart or become
weak, and they consider it beneath their dignity to respond with an emo-
tional display of hurt or being upset. Whatever happens, they trust in

Harun Yahya (Adnan Oktar)