Page 89 - Romanticism: A Weapon of Satan

Romanticism: Miscellanea

methods. Therefore, it becomes clear that the compassion he feels is
quite far from the fine moral virtue commanded in the Qu'ran.
One of the most telling characteristics of a sentimental person is
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their selfishness. This type of person appears on the surface to act out
of a spirit of self-sacrifice, but actually, his action was determined in
order to satisfy his own emotions. For that reason, we do not expect a
sentimental person to act justly or to have a true sense of
egalitarianism. When he finds himself in a situation that appears to go
against his personal interests, or that of a relative or of someone he
loves, instead of acting fairly, makes unfair and biased decisions. In
regards to a matter referred to him for his consideration, he may even
offer a dishonest opinion in favour of a friend or relative, or even offer
false testimony. On the contrary, one of the most important
characteristics for a believer to have is for him to act justly. In the
Qu'ran, God commands everyone to act in justice, not only towards
friends and relatives, but also towards those who may be our enemies:
You who believe! Be upholders of justice, bearing witness for God
alone, even against yourselves or your parents and relatives.
Whether they are rich or poor, God is well able to look after them.
Do not follow your own desires and deviate from the truth. If you
twist or turn away, God is aware of what you do. (Qur'an, 4:135)

In another verse, God invites human beings to bear "witness with
justice":

You who believe! Show integrity for the sake of God, bearing
witness with justice. Do not let hatred for a people incite you into
not being just... (Qur'an, 5:8)
However, it is not possible for a sentimental person to properly
fulfil the commandments in these verses, because such a person's
character is rooted in selfishness, and his judgements are not objective.
He will first act in his own favour, and then that of his family and
friends, then perhaps even giving preference those he is partial to
without any particular reason. He closes his eyes to immorality, and
even to acts that could be regarded a crime.