Compassion for others is essential of Islamic teachings: Prof. Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri

The President of Minhaj-ul-Quran International, Professor Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri, delivered the fourth lecture in the ongoing series on "Etiquette of Life" on the fifth day of the City of I'tikaf 2025, drawing insights from the Qur’an, Sunnah, and teachings of the righteous predecessors.

In his address, Prof. Dr. Hussain emphasized that moral values hold a central place in Islamic teachings, playing a fundamental role in strengthening social relationships. He said that the Holy Qur’an describes one of the key qualities of the servants of the Most Merciful (Ibad-ur-Rahman) as humility and modesty, which serve as a foundational principle for a harmonious society.

Citing Shaykh al-Akbar Muhyiddin Ibn Arabi, he explained that the concept of "Salam" means praying for the safety and well-being of others. "Salam" is one of Allah’s divine attributes and also one of the names of Paradise. Imam Ibn Qayyim further states that greeting someone with Salam is essentially a prayer for goodness and well-being.

Dr. Hussain further illustrated moral excellence through the character of Imam Hussain (A.S.). He narrated an incident where a Bedouin spoke ill of Imam Hussain’s father, Hazrat Ali (A.S.), and his brother, Imam Hasan (A.S.). Instead of reacting harshly, Imam Hussain (A.S.) responded with patience and kindness, saying, "If you are suffering from any hardship, we are ready to help you. If you are financially troubled, we are here to support you." Moved by Imam Hussain’s generous and forgiving nature, the Bedouin felt ashamed and repented.

When someone later asked Imam Hussain (A.S.) as to why he responded with kindness, he replied, "This man acted based on the upbringing he received from his parents, and I acted according to the values instilled in me by my parents." This incident is a shining example of Islamic ethics, serving as a guiding principle for improving social relationships.

Professor Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri further mentioned a narration from Abdullah bin Salam (R.A.), who stated that when the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) arrived in Madinah, he was among those who went to see him. Upon seeing the blessed face of the Prophet (ﷺ), he immediately realized that this was the face of a truthful person. The first words the Prophet (ﷺ) spoke were:

"O people! Spread peace (Salam), feed others, and pray at night when people are asleep, and you will enter Paradise in peace."

This teaching highlights the importance of building peaceful and harmonious relationships in society. No society, nation, or civilization can prosper if its people continue to suffer from hunger and fear.

Prof. Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din emphasized that strengthening social ties requires helping others. Whether it is fulfilling someone’s needs, offering encouragement, comforting the distressed, or sharing in someone’s joy, these are among the greatest human values. Helping others is not just about financial aid—a smile, kind words, or goodwill can also bring hope to someone's life.

"A society that promotes sacrifice, empathy, and mutual cooperation naturally fosters love, peace, and brotherhood," he said.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: "Be kind and dutiful to your parents, and then to your relatives, step by step." Imam Hussain (A.S.) was known for his exemplary care for relatives, and the companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) often mentioned that no one cared for others as much as Imam Hussain (A.S.) did.

Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri concluded by urging the Muslim community to adopt a peaceful and tolerant attitude towards minorities, ensuring their rights and well-being are respected. By fostering peace and coexistence, societies can achieve true harmony and prosperity.