Page 25 - The Mercy of Believers

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TO WHOM DO BELIEVERS SHOW COMPASSION AND MERCY?

wayfarers, who, for one reason or another, have difficulty
in reaching their final destination, and they ensure that
they arrive there safe and sound. Meanwhile, they con-
sider the potential difficulties and troubles they are to en-
counter, take effective steps to eliminate them, and
provide all other necessary assistance. This obligation,
which Allah imposes on believers, is stated in the Qur'an
as follows:

… (Be good to) travellers and your slaves. Allah does
not love anyone vain or boastful. (Surat an-Nisa': 36)
The offerings given for the sake of Allah is for the
poor, the destitute, those who collect it, reconciling
people's hearts, freeing slaves, those in debt, spend-
ing in the Way of Allah, and travellers. It is a legal
obligation from Allah. Allah is All-Knowing, All-
Wise. (Surat at-Tawba: 60)
In the above verses, Allah commands believers to "be
good" to these people apart from the material support
they offer. Given the elevated values of the Qur'an, it is
easy for believers to know—as a matter of conscience—
how to "do good" and they take great pleasure in dis-
playing these good manners. They think about the
possible needs of a wayfarer and accordingly assume a
naturally sensitive attitude towards them.
These commands of Allah also reveal the understand-
ing of responsibility and the humane qualities instilled in
believers by the Qur'an. Believers, who take upon them-
selves the responsibility for a wayfarer, never remain
heedless towards incidents taking place around them.
Towards one who needs help, they never assume an in-