Page 189 - Mary: An Exemplary Muslim Woman

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do not reflect sufficiently upon the consequences of insincerity toward
Allah and other people. Pretence is especially common among unbeliev-
ing women, for some of them appear to like and take an interest in oth-

ers, whom they neither respect nor like, but backbite nevertheless be-
cause of some common interests that they may have. They can lie and
cheat one another without a second thought or, by concealing their an-
tipathy, create the opposite impression. Likewise, they can conceal these
feelings and try to fool the people they value and like very much.
Muslim women do not behave this way, because their lives are
guided by their sincere fear and respect of Allah. They never worry
about pleasing anyone for some small material gain, for Allah and many
other people despise such behavior. Rather, they seek to behave in a way
that will win them His good pleasure. They also know that Allah likes
only those who are sincere, for "He knows what the heart contains"
(Surat ash-Shura: 24). In another verse, Allah says: "Though you speak
out loud, He knows your secrets and what is even more concealed"
(Surah Ta-Ha: 7). For this reason, only unbelievers seek to conceal from

others what is really in their hearts.
Besides, Muslim women know that winning people's pleasure will
not benefit them in either world, for Allah has revealed that He will not
forgive anyone who ascribes partners to Him. Therefore, all believers
must refrain from such behavior, for seeking to win other people's ap-
proval is just one of the many ways of ascribing partners to Allah.

Muslim Women Are Honest

Allah reminds people not to lie:
O You who believe! Have fear [and respect] of Allah and speak the right
word. He will put your actions right for you and forgive you your wrong
deeds. (Surat al-Ahzab: 70-71)

Harun Yahya (Adnan Oktar)