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There is a most important truth revealed in the verse “You will not attain true goodness until you give of what you love,” (Surah Al ‘Imran, 92) One of the most basic qualities that leads people to “goodness” in the true sense is “altruism.” The word itself means the willing and immediate renunciation of things a person possesses, loves and values. It means being prepared when necessary to undergo all kinds of difficulty and trouble for the values one believes in or those whom one loves, and to do all in one’s power on their behalf with enthusiasm, determination and will. It means being able to renounce one’s own interests when faced with a choice between them and the values one upholds and the people one loves and to make all kinds of material and other sacrifices for their sake.

However, human passions have been created with a predisposition towards poor moral values such as selfishness and egotism. Unless properly trained, these selfish emotions come to completely dominate a person’s moral framework. Such a person thinks mainly of himself rather than of anyone else. He always wants the best, the most attractive, the most perfect of everything for himself. Yet he also expects everyone else to demonstrate understanding and self-sacrifice. Whenever he encounters any difficulty he expects those around him to undergo risks and inconvenience for him, and to support him even to the extent of foregoing their own interests. He desires to protect his own wishes and interests and to ensure his own ease and comfort. In an adverse situation a person may be able to renounce many things he values – in the name of protecting his or her interests and preventing any harm from coming to him. Allah has revealed this excessive selfishness in the human spirit in the Qur’an:

Truly man was created headstrong – desperate when bad things happen, begrudging when good things come. (Surat al-Ma‘arij, 19-21)

It is possible to free one’s spirit from this weakness by understanding faith and living by the moral values of the Qur’an. Someone who understands the truths revealed in the Qur’an and the moral conception commanded by Allah will achieve a state of morality capable of exhibiting altruism at any moment of his life. That is because in the verse “It is the people who are safe-guarded from the avarice of their own selves who are successful” (Surat at-Taghabun, 64), Allah has revealed that it is safeguarding their desires from this vice that will lead people to salvation in this world and the next.

Allah has created the human conscience in order for people to protect their passions from evil and to attain the kind of moral values beloved of Him. The voice of that conscience shows people the way to avoid all forms of wickedness and to attain what is good. The deep love and powerful fear of Allah in the heart of a true believer prevents him from being vanquished by the wickedness of his desires. Knowing that the true purpose behind his existence in the life of this world is to attain Allah’s approval, such a person seeks to spend every moment of his life behaving in such a way that will be pleasing to Allah. He knows that the life of this world is but short, and that a person must strive for the eternal life of the Hereafter. He never forgets that all the interests he obtains here are transitory, after which he will have to render account to Allah. He knows that those who seek to ensure their own desires and interests in the life of this world, instead of seeking Allah’s approval, mercy and Paradise, may be rewarded with eternal suffering in the Hereafter. On the other hand, Allah will recompense altruistic moral values with goodness and beauty in this world and by eternal, incomparable blessings in the next. In the Qur’an, Allah imparts these glad tidings to people who behave morally,

Those who do good will have the best and more! Neither dust nor debasement will darken their faces. They are the Companions of the Garden, remaining in it timelessly, for ever. (Surah Yunus, 26)

So Allah gave them the reward of the world and the best reward of the Hereafter. Allah loves good-doers. (Surah Al ‘Imran, 148)

… If anyone desires the reward of the world, We will give him some of it. If anyone desires the reward of the Hereafter, We will give him some of it. We will recompense the thankful. (Surah Al ‘Imran, 145)

When one thinks of self-sacrifice, however, what comes to mind should not be solely giving away part of one’s material possessions, that part which represents more than one actually needs for oneself. Self-sacrifice is a way of life that stems from strength of faith and dominates a believer’s entire life. This spirit of altruism needs to be present within a sensitivity of conscience to everything going on around a person. Altrusim means a person seeking to feel himself responsible on every matter, from social problems to the oppressed, persecuted, starving and needy people all over the world, and striving to find a solution to them. It is the employment of one’s reason and conscience at the highest possible level, without ever saying, “There are plenty of people with the means and resources to resolve all these issues, so let them do it.” It means those with a “vestige of good,” as revealed in the verse: “Would that there had been more people with a vestige of good among the generations of those who came before you, who forbade corruption in the Earth, other than the few among them whom We saved. Those who did wrong gladly pursued the life of luxury that they were given and were evildoers” (Surah Hud, 116), Muslims who believe, who listen to the voice of their consciences and fear Allah, acting in the knowledge of their responsibilities.

When we look at the events experienced by Muslims throughout the course of history we see that they have always been able to overcome troubles and diffculties in this way. Beginning with the Prophet Muhammad (saas), made a role model for all humanity by Allah, and his companions, Muslims have always lived this moral framework in the best manner possible and have been a means whereby, with their superior solidarity and instances of self-sacrifice, Islam and the moral values of the Qur’an have spread all over the world. The superior moral values and generosity of the Prophet (saas) are revealed thus in the hadiths:

* The Prophet (saas) was the most generous of people in auspicious deeds. The Prophet (saas) was more generous even than the wind blowing from the direction of good.

* He never said “I do not possess such” when asked for something and never begrudged anything asked of him.

* Abu Zerr told me the following: “Son of my brother! I went to the Prophet’s (saas) side. Taking my hand, he said, ‘Abu Zerr! Even if I had as much gold and silver as Mount Uhud I would wish to spend it in the way of Allah, leaving not a farthing behind’.”

The Prophet (saas), the finest role model for Muslims with his superior moral values, encouraged the faithful to be generous in these words during a sermon:

* In one of his sermons, after giving thanks to Allah he [The Prophet Muhammad (saas)] said: “O People! Know that Allah has chosen Islam for you as your religion. Adorn your Islam with generosity and pleasing moral values. I wish you to know that generosity is a heavenly tree, with its roots in Paradise and its branches in this world. Those of you who have generosity will adhere to one of those branches, and that branch will carry him to Paradise. As for parsimoniousness, that is a tree with its roots in Hell and its branches in this world. Whoever clings to one of those branches by being parsimonious, it will carry him to Hell.” Later the Prophet (saas) again said, “Be generous in the way of Allah.”

The companions of the Prophet (saas) who were ready to unquestioningly give up their goods and lives in order to gain the approval of Allah exhibited great examples of self-sacrifice throughout their lives. Since they possessed a sure and certain belief in Allah and the Hereafter they never regarded giving in the way of Allah (infaq) as representing any kind of loss; on the contrary, they saw it as an important opportunity to gain the love of and closeness to Allah. As revealed by Allah in the verse: “And how is it with you that you do not give in the way of Allah,when the inheritance of the heavens and the Earth belongs to Allah? Those of you who gave and fought before the Victory are not the same as those who gave and fought afterwards. They are higher in rank. But to each of them Allah has promised the Best. Allah is aware of what you do.” (Surat al-Hadid, 10), those who sacrificed their property in times of difficulty acted in the knowledge of the value of that action in the sight of Allah.

Therefore, all Muslims must take these superior moral values of our Prophet (saas) and his companions as role models for themselves, and must compete with one another to help those in need. It must never be forgotten that self-sacrifice performed with true sincerity is most valued in the sight of our Lord and a marvellous opportunity for Muslims who seek to attain the infinite blessings of Paradise.

Under the pen name of Harun Yahya, Adnan Oktar has written some 250 works. His books contain a total of 46,000 pages and 31,500 illustrations. Of these books, 7,000 pages and 6,000 illustrations deal with the collapse of the Theory of Evolution. You can read, free of charge, all the books Adnan Oktar has written under the pen name Harun Yahya on these websites www.harunyahya.com

As a verse of the Qur’an reveals, “… Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah and the Final Seal of the Prophets.” (Surat al-Ahzab: 40), the Prophet Muhammad (saas) was sent to mankind as the last prophet. He was a living example of the sublime morality of Allah’s last revelation. He was a friend of Allah and inspired humanity by his nearness to Him. He was His representative, noble in His eyes, and a friend to all believers.

As Allah has revealed in another verse, “We will impose a weighty Word upon you…” (Surat al-Muzammil: 5), he charged His last prophet, Muhammad (saas) with a heavy responsibility. Due to the Prophet (saas)’s strong faith in Allah, he fulfilled that responsibility in the best possible way, called mankind to the path of Allah and Islam, and illuminated the way for all believers.

Although we have never seen the Prophet (saas), we can still do our very best to come to know his exemplary behavior, his sayings and the pleasing morality he displayed, by means of the verses of the Qur’an and the hadiths (the sayings and teachings of the Prophet (saas). We can try to be like him, in order to be close to him in the hereafter. People today, and the young in particular, take many individuals as role models, imitate the way they behave, speak and dress, and try to be like them. Yet, since the great majority of these people are not on the right road themselves, they lack proper morality and attitudes. It is therefore a serious responsibility to lead people to the truth and the best morality and behavior. A Muslim needs to try to emulate the behavior and the morality of the Prophet Muhammad (saas). Allah confirms that in a verse:

You have an excellent model in the Messenger of Allah, for all who put their hope in Allah and the Last Day and remember Allah much. (Surat al-Ahzab: 21)

Those Muslims who follow the way of the Prophet (saas) need to be foremost in their morality and behavior, and to invite others to adopt that same morality. As the Prophet (saas)’s words “The most perfect believer in respect of faith is he who is best of them in manners.” (1) make clear, morality is one the most important components of true faith. It is therefore an important religious duty to learn about and practice the very best examples of it.

The Prophet (saas)’s trust in Allah: An example to all people

Those situations the Prophet (saas) was involved, as they are related in the Qur’an, demonstrate his resignation, and submission to Allah. For instance, the Prophet (saas)’s words when he and his friend were hiding in a cave after leaving Mecca are one of the finest examples of that submission. The Qur’an says:

If you do not help him, Allah did help him when those who disbelieved drove him out and there were two of them in the Cave. He said to his companion, “Do not be despondent, Allah is with us.” Then Allah sent down His serenity upon him and reinforced him with troops you could not see. He made the word of those who disbelieved undermost. It is the word of Allah which is uppermost. Allah is Almighty, All-Wise. (Surat at-Tawba: 40)

Whatever the situation might have been, the Prophet (saas) always submitted to Allah, in the knowledge that there was beauty and goodness in all that He created. These words of the Prophet (saas) to his people as related in the Qur’an are a telling instance of that submission:

If good happens to you it galls them. If a mishap occurs to you, they say, “We made our preparations in advance,” and they turn away rejoicing. Say: “Nothing can happen to us except what Allah has ordained for us. He is Our Master. It is in Allah that the believers should put their trust.” (Surat at-Tawba: 50-51)

The Prophet (saas), by his submission to Allah, was an example to all Muslims, and he warned that people would never have the power to alter anything that came from Allah:

“… When you ask for anything ask it from Allah, and if you seek help in Allah. Know that if the people were to unite to do you some benefit they could benefit you only with what Allah had recorded for you, and that if they were to unite to do you some injury they could injure you only with what Allah had recorded for you. The pens are withdrawn and the pages are dry.” (2)

The Prophet (saas) ever only sought to please Allah, expecting nothing in return from others

One of the fundamental tenets of Islam is that a person must found his whole life on the love and fear of Allah, and carry out all his obligations solely to win the good will and mercy of Allah and to attain His Paradise. In one verse, Allah tells believers: “Say: ‘My prayer and my rites, my living and my dying, are for Allah alone, the Lord of all the worlds.’” (Surat al-An‘am: 162)

In the following verse, believers are told to live their religion solely for Allah, and not for any other purpose: “Except those who repent and put things right and hold fast to Allah and dedicate their religion to Allah alone; they are with the believers. Allah will give the believers an immense reward.” (Surat an-Nisa’: 146) Anyone who holds fast to Allah, knows that there is no other god than Allah, lives his life solely to gain His good pleasure, and never, ever abandons his faith in Him, shows he has true faith.

No sincere believer tries to gain the love, good will, praise of anyone other than Allah in his actions and religious duties. The finest examples of such sincere believers are the Prophet Muhammad (saas) and other prophets (peace be upon them all).

The patience exhibited by the Prophet (saas) in the face of difficulty

Throughout the period of his mission, the Prophet Muhammad (saas) experienced all manner of difficulty. Deniers and polytheists, from among his own people, insulted him most terribly, even calling him a magician or a madman. Others wanted to kill him and even schemed to do so. Despite all that, the Prophet (saas) tried to teach people of all backgrounds and cultures about the Qur’an, and therefore about proper morality and good behavior.

As is revealed in the verses of the Qur’an, some people had not the slightest idea of the basics of good manners, for which reason it never entered their minds that they might appall someone who possessed superior morality. The Prophet (saas) displayed the greatest patience in this circumstances, turning to Allah and asking for His help in all situations and encouraging believers to patience and submission. In the Qur’an, Allah advises the Prophet (saas) to be patient despite the words of unbelievers:

So be patient in the face of what they say and glorify your Lord with praise before the rising of the sun and before it sets. (Surah Qaf: 39)

Do not be grieved by what they say. All might belongs to Allah. He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing. (Surah Yunus: 65)

Believers must remember the kind of things Allah’s Messenger (saas) was patient for, and take him as a model when dealing with their own difficulties. Those who despair at the slightest problem, who are unable to bear the smallest objection, who stop preaching the religion of Allah, or who lose hope when their business dealings go wrong, must be aware that such behavior is incompatible with Allah’s holy book and the sayings and deeds of the Prophet (saas). Believers must always be patient, take Allah as their helper and give thanks to Him, adopt the superior morality of the Prophet (saas), and hope for the mercy, compassion and Paradise of our Lord.

The Prophet (saas) was always tolerant of those around him

Throughout his life, however, he showed an interest in each and every one, warned them about their mistakes and failings, and tried to educate them in all matters, from cleanliness to matters of faith. That compassionate, tolerant, understanding and patient attitude of his was the means by which many peoples’ hearts warmed to Islam and developed a genuine love for the Prophet (saas). Allah describes this pleasing attitude adopted by the Prophet (saas) towards those around him in the Qur’an:

It is a mercy from Allah that you were gentle with them. If you had been rough or hard of heart, they would have scattered from around you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them… (Surah Al ‘Imran: 159)

The Prophet (saas) never pressured those around him to accept the religion, nor imposed conditions on them. Instead he always used the pleasantest ways to tell them about it. He always supported the community of the faithful with his strong conscience, and was a benefactor to them at all times. On account of these traits, the Prophet (saas) is described in many verses as “your companion.” (Surah Saba’: 46: Surat an-Najm: 2, Surat at-Takwir: 22).

Those believers who were able to comprehend the conscientiousness of the Prophet (saas) regarded him as closer to them than all others, and humbled themselves towards him. In one verse, Allah states:

The Prophet has closer ties to the believers than their own selves, and his wives are their mothers… (Surat al-Ahzab: 6)

Imam Ghazali, the great Islamic scholar, summed up the Prophet (saas)’s treatment of those around him in light of the information found in the hadiths:

“… Everyone thought that the Prophet honoured him more. Whoever came to him could see his face… He used to call his companions by their surnames with honour and he used to give one surname who had no surname… He was very affectionate and kind in dealing with the people… Nobody could speak loudly in his assembly.” (3)

The Prophet (saas)’s human love, kind thought and compassion, which turned those around him to true religion and warmed their hearts to faith, is that superior morality which all Muslims should seek to reproduce.

The exemplary justice of the Prophet (saas)

In the Qur’an, Allah commands believers to “Be upholders of justice, bearing witness for Allah alone, even against yourselves or your parents and relatives. Whether they are rich or poor, Allah is well able to look after them. Do not follow your own desires and deviate from the truth…” (Surat an-Nisa’: 135). With the rules he imposed on Muslims, his just and tolerant attitude towards those of other religions, languages, races and tribes, and his way of not discriminating between rich and poor, but treating everybody equally, Allah’s Messenger (saas) is a great example to all of mankind.

The Prophet (saas) abided by Allah’s commands, even with such difficult people, and never made any concessions in his implementation of justice. He became an example for all times with the words, “My Lord has commanded justice…” (Surat al-A‘raf: 29).

During the time of the Prophet (saas), Christians, Jews and pagans were all treated equally. The Prophet (saas) abided by the verse “There is no compulsion where the religion is concerned…” (Surat al-Baqara: 256), explaining the true religion to everyone, but leaving them free to make up their own minds. The noble attitude of the Prophet (saas), being in total harmony with the morality of the Qur’an, should be taken as an example of how members of different religions today should be treated. During his final sermon, the Prophet (saas) called on Muslims in these terms:

“There is no superiority for an Arab over a non-Arab and for a non-Arab over an Arab; nor for white over the black nor for the black over the white except in piety. Verily the noblest among you is he who is the most pious.” (4)

In our day, the only solution to the fighting and conflict going on all over the world is to adopt the morality of the Qur’an, and, like the Prophet (saas), never to depart from the path of justice, making no distinction between different religions, languages, or races.

The Prophet (saas) was a bearer of glad tidings

In the verse “O Prophet! We have sent you as a witness, and a bringer of good news and a warner” (Surat al-Ahzab: 45), Allah describes the Prophet (saas) as a bearer of glad tidings and a warner. The Prophet (saas) always warned people against the sufferings to be experienced in Hell, and told them of the desirable future that awaited the good in this world, and of the infinite life of the Paradise in the hereafter. This characteristic of the Prophet (saas) is revealed in the Qur’an thus:

We have sent you with the Truth, bringing good news and giving warning. Do not ask about the inhabitants of the Blazing Fire. (Surat al-Baqara: 119)

Those who take the Prophet (saas) as a model and abide by his Sunnah must, like him, give people the same glad tidings and warn them. The Prophet (saas) himself described how such people ought to behave:

“Make things easy for the people, and do not make it difficult for them, and make them calm (with glad tidings) and do not repulse (them).” (5)

Giving welcome news increases believers’ enthusiasm and morale, and encourages them to be more determined and persevering in their labors in the way of Allah. Someone who hopes to be rewarded with Paradise will of course have a very different attitude and state of mind than someone who regards those labors as monotonous, or carries them out of habit or a sense of obligation. That is why Allah has commanded His Messenger (saas) to: “Spur on the believers.” (Surat an-Nisa’: 84)

The Prophet (saas) relieved Muslims of difficulties

The Prophet (saas) lifted burdens from the faithful, and was a guide to them in tasks that they failed to understand properly, which were otherwise had been too difficult. People are easily prone to making their lives difficult, and to imposing rules upon themselves, by which they falsely believe they have solved their problems. This particular human characteristic is one of the reasons why the religion has been distorted through the years. Many societies have dreamed up rules that did not actually exist in the religion, and then made themselves and others believe that they would only be truly god-fearing when they adhered to them. One of the Prophet (saas)’s most important qualities was the way he lifted such burdens that people had imposed on themselves. Allah speaks of that quality of the Prophet (saas) in a verse:

Those who follow the Messenger, the Ummi, whom they find written down with them in the Torah and the Gospel, commanding them to do right and forbidding them to do wrong, permitting them good things and prohibiting them bad things, relieving them of their heavy loads and the chains which were around them. Those who believe in him and honour him and help him, and follow the Light that has been sent down with him, they are the ones who are successful. (Surat al-A‘raf: 157)

The Prophet (saas) was most considerate and compassionate towards the faithful

The Prophet (saas) was a compassionate man, full of love and understanding. He took an interest in the physical and spiritual problems of his friends, relatives and all those around him, and took all appropriate measures to ensure their health, security and happiness. He took them under his wing, and always bore in mind their lot in the hereafter by encouraging them to remain godly. These features of the Prophet (saas), that are an example for all of humanity, are revealed in verses:

A Messenger has come to you from among yourselves. Your suffering is distressing to him; he is deeply concerned for you; he is gentle and merciful to the believers. (Surat at-Tawba: 128)

The faithful, who were taught by the Prophet (saas), and abided by the verses of the Qur’an, behaved compassionately even towards prisoners of war. Verses speak of this, too:

They give food, despite their love for it, to the poor and orphans and captives: “We feed you only out of desire for the Face of Allah. We do not want any repayment from you or any thanks. Truly We fear from our Lord a glowering, calamitous Day.” (Surat al-Insan: 8-10)

The Prophet (saas) reminded his companions to be compassionate, and was the greatest model for them in that regard:

“Those who have mercy will receive the mercy of the Most Merciful. Have mercy on those who are on earth, the One in heavens will have mercy on you.” (6)

The importance the Prophet (saas) attributed to cleanliness

As well as their purity of heart and morality, Muslims are also known for the cleanliness of their bodies, clothes, homes and the food they eat. A Muslim’s hair, hands, face and body must always be clean. His clothes must always be clean, neat and well cared for. The places where he works or lives must always be clean, tidy, sweet-smelling and be a relaxing atmosphere. Once again, it is the Prophet (saas) who is the best example of this characteristic of Muslims. The Prophet also advises the faithful to be clean in one of the hadiths:

“Surely, Islam is pure, therefore be pure, because he can never enter Paradise who is not pure.” (7)

The Prophet (saas) was always considerate and courteous

Some of those who surrounded the Prophet (saas) were less than well-mannered and cultured. It can be seen from a number of verses that they could not understand how thoughtless they were and that their behavior could make others uncomfortable. For instance, verses speak of people entering houses by the back instead of the front, arriving when the Prophet (saas) was dining, or else taking up his time by talking for a long time. The Prophet Muhammad (saas), on the other hand, was very thoughtful, courteous, patient and civilized, and treated such people nevertheless with the greatest tolerance. Also, in the most pleasant manner, he warned those around him against behavior that would make others uncomfortable, and thus won their sympathy, teaching them through patience and perseverence. That comportment made him an excellent example for all believers.

Because of his being both a Messenger of Allah and a head of state, the Prophet (saas) was in constant contact with people from all walks of life, from the wealthy leaders of states and tribes to poor, defenceless women and orphans. He was able to communicate with and win the hearts of people whose social status, ways of life and customs were very different from one another, he exhibited understanding, patience and a desirable attitude.

Anas bin Malik (ra), who was raised in the Prophet (saas)’s household and served him for many years, spoke of his matchless kindness:

“Allah’s Messenger (saas) that when he shook hands with anyone he did not withdraw his hands till the other man withdrew his. Similarly, he did not turn away his face from anyone till that man turned his face to the other side. And he was never seen to put forward his knees in front of one with whom he was sitting.” (8)

The Prophet (saas) taught thousands of people during his life, and was a means by which those who knew nothing of religion and morality came to be morally superior, well-behaved, thoughtful and self-sacrificing. Even after his death, the Prophet (saas) is still teaching by means of his words, attitudes and behavior, and is a most noble guide and teacher. (For further reading, see The Prophet Mohammad (saas) by Harun Yahya)

Under the pen name of Harun Yahya, Adnan Oktar has written some 250 works. His books contain a total of 46,000 pages and 31,500 illustrations. Of these books, 7,000 pages and 6,000 illustrations deal with the collapse of the Theory of Evolution. You can read, free of charge, all the books Adnan Oktar has written under the pen name Harun Yahya on these websites www.harunyahya.com

1 Sunan Abu Dawud, Book 40, Number 4665

2 Tirmidhi Hadith

3 Imam Ghazzali’s Ihya Ulum-Id-Din, The Book of Religious Learnings, Islamic Book Service, New Delhi, 2001, Volume II, p.240

4 Prophet Muhammad’s Last Sermon (http://www.stanford.edu/~jamila/Sermon.html)

5 Sahih Bukhari, Volume 8, Number 146

6 Tirmidhi Hadith

7 Ahmad Diya’al-Din al-Kamushkhanawi, Ramuz al-Ahadith, vol.1, 96/2

8 Maulana Muhammad Manzoor No’mani, Ma’ariful Hadith, (Meaning and Message of the Traditions), Darul – Ishaat Publications, Karachi, Volume 4, p.334

Throughout his life, the Blessed Uthman (ra), one of the first few people to accept Islam, was one of those closest to our Prophet (saas). Before he was raised to the status of caliph, he performed great services to further the adoption and spread of Islamic moral values: After his elevation to this position by a council delegation following the martyrdom of Umar (ra), he served in other ways. He fought by the side of the Prophet (saas) in all battles except Badr. Nobody objected to Uthman (ra)’s selection to the rank of caliph because he was regarded as worthy of it throughout Islamic society, and everyone swore allegiance to him.

Uthman’s (ra) Services Before Becoming Caliph

Uthman (ra), who became a Muslim through Abu Baqr’s message, was a valuable companion of the Prophet (saas) and, with his superior moral values, an example for all Muslims. In addition to possessing a very pleasant and effective way of speaking, and an excellent memory, he learned the Holy Qur’an by heart. Furthermore, he had a great knowledge of the words of the Prophet (saas) (hadiths) and as amanuensis of the revelation, performed great services for Islam.

Uthman (ra) sought only the approval and love of Allah.All the material wealth that Allah bestowed on him, he expended on the dissemination of Islamic moral values and on the well-being of Muslims. He spent 20,000 dirhems–a very large sum of money at the time– on buying the Bi’r Ruma (the Well of Rumah) and placed it at the disposal of Muslims in Medina who were buying water from the well because of a shortage of fresh water.(1) In addition, Uthman (ra) fitted out one third of the Tebuk Expedition’s army, which represented Islam’s most powerful forces at the time. (2) It is reported that after his help, the army had no more need of anything.

It is reported, too, that at a time when famine struck Medina, Uthman (ra) purchased a caravan of one hundred camel-loads of wheat coming from Damascus and later distributed it all free to the poor of Medina and Sahabat al-Kiram, the companions of the Prophet (saas). (3)

Uthman (ra)’s Superior Services During his Caliphate

Certainly one of Uthman (ra)’s greatest services in the propagation of Islamic moral values during his caliphate was how he had copies of the Holy Qur’an copied and sent to various Islamic centers. In his day, due to differences of accent, the verses of the Qur’an were being read out in different ways, so the Blessed Uthman (ra) set up an institution for the copying of the Qur’an. One specimen was left in Medina, and others sent to Mecca, Damascus, Kufa, Basra, Egypt and other locations.

Due to this great and honorable service, Uthman (ra) came to be called the disseminator of the Qur’an. (4)

When making postings, Uthman (ra) was careful to appoint learned people. He laid great importance on advances in construction and agriculture to raise the level of well-being of people living in Islamic lands, and sought to improve vineyards and orchards. The best expression of his lofty concept of justice was his statement that “We will proscribe nobody unless they commit a crime, or commit blasphemy.” is. (5) During the period, Muslims grew rich and enjoyed greater well-being than in the past. During his caliphate, a great many people in Islamic lands converted to Islam.

His Conception of Military and Political Leadership

When it came to Islam and the faithful, Uthman (ra) avoided no sacrifices. Throughout his caliphate, he achieved great successes in his military and political leadership.

At the time, as a result of requests by Mu’awiyah, then governor of Syria, the first Islamic fleet was brought to the shores of Syria — of great importance for protecting an Islamic country that had recently begun expanding, and a large part of whose territories consisted of coastal regions. When this idea became a reality, the Islamic state possessed a considerable maritime force, and thanks to this first fleet, the strategically important Mediterranean island of Cyprus was taken. In the years following this first maritime victory, campaigns were waged against other Mediterranean islands.

But in these maritime campaigns and also wars on land Uthman (ra) was always — Islamic moral values require — just and compassionate, and made this felt by peoples living under his administration as well as in captured territories. During the capture of the Armenian city of Dabil (Dvin), Christians, Jews, and Zoroastrians were given assurances and guaranteed the protection of all their places of worship.(6) Moreover, he never withheld permission to restore damaged churches and build new monasteries. For instance, the St. Sergius monastery outside of Medain was destroyed by Patriarch Mar Amme, but rebuilt during Uthman’s reign.

In addition, the conquests in Persia, the Caucasus and Africa continued during Uthman (ra)’s period. Great victories were gained over the Byzantine Empire, and order and justice were established in the captured territories. Armenia, the Caucasus, Horasan, Morocco, Kerman, much of Africa and many other regions all became part of the Islamic map. (7)

Our Prophet (saws) Imparted the Tidings of Uthman (ra)’s Martyrdom

It is reported with Abu Ya’la (ra), transmitted from Hafsa (ra), the mother of believers, that

“The Prophet (saws) of Allah had Uthman (ra) called to him and said: “You will be killed! Be patient, may Allah give you patience. Do not take off the shirt–the caliphate–that Allah will have you wear for ten years and six months!” As he turned to go, the Prophet (saas) of Allah added, “ . . . You will be martyred and die while you are fasting. You will break your fast with me! ” (8)

He remained in his post of caliph even in the confusion that arose from words spoken to him by our Prophet (saas). One day the Prophet (saas) said to him, “O Uthman, the Lord may clothe you with a garment, and if hypocrites want to take it away from you, do not put it off till you meet me in paradise.” (9)

The predictions of Uthman (ra)’s martyrdom revealed by our Prophet (saas) came to pass as a miracle in the sight of Allah. Uthman (ra), who had assumed such a great responsibility in the propagation of Islam, was martyred.

This holy individual’s martyrdom of came about as a result of troubles emerging from cities such as Basra and, Kufa and countries such as Egypt. in the year Hijri 35 (657 A.D.), rebels martyred the Blessed Uthman (ra) in his home and he was raised to an honorable position in the sight of Allah.

Uthman (ra)’s obedience to the words of the Prophet (saas) even in the face of these dangers are clear signs of his devotion and submission to Allah and our Prophet (saas).

Uthman (ra)’s Superior Moral Values

His superior moral values are praised in the hadiths of our Prophet (saws), and throughout the ten years of his caliphate, he displayed a moderate and just administration and followed the path of our Prophet (saws). He expanded Islamic territory with campaigns waged by land and at sea, and helped Qur’anic moral values spread over a wide area.

Uthman (ra), serving the spread of Islam, by the will of Allah, both before and after the caliphate, exhibited an exemplary determination in spreading Qur’anic moral values to Muslims and a virtuous morality. In this verse, Allah has revealed the efforts all Muslims must make in this regard:

Let there be a community among you who call to the good, and enjoin the right, and forbid the wrong. They are the ones who have success. (Surah Al ‘Imran: 104)

In Uthman (ra)’s Own Words

“Learn from the past and do auspicious deeds.”

“Allah has given you this world so that with it, you may seek the Hereafter, not so that you may love it!”

“Hasten to do all the auspicious deeds you can before death comes.”

“O People! Do not oppose the commandments of Allah, because avoiding opposing the commandments of Allah is a blessing. Although a servant may see, let him fear his eyes being blinded by Allah. A single word is enough for those who understand wisdom. The deaf in spirit cannot hear the truth. Know that whomever Allah stands by need fear nothing.”

Our Prophet’s (saws) Words Regarding the Blessed Uthman (ra)

Verily, the angels stand abashed before Uthman as they stand abashed before God and His Prophet.” (10)

Uthman is the humblest of my community and also the most munificent. (11)

After the Prophet Lot (as), Uthman was the first to go on an emigration with his family. (12)

Every prophet has a companion in paradise. My companion there is Uthman. (13)

O Allah! Lift doomsday, grief and suffering from Uthman, because he has lifted our suffering. (14)

Uthman is with me, and I with him. (15)

From the Letter Written to Governors When Uthman (ra) Became Caliph

“Know that justice consists of observing the needs of Muslims, enforcing their rights, and collecting taxes, and also respecting the rights of the Dhimmi [non-Muslim subjects living in an Islamic country, freely observing their own religious beliefs] and collecting their taxes that they agreed to pay, known as the Jizra]. Remain faithful to agreements, [even] with your enemies.”

From a Letter Written to Frontier Commanders When He Became Caliph

“You are the army of the Muslims. Nobody is ignorant of Umar (ra)’s relationship with commanders. His every deed took place before the eyes of all. Do not attempt to damage or change this order. If you do, Allah will replace you and give to others the task of defending and spreading Islam. Constantly check your behavior. I constantly monitor the duties entrusted to me by Allah and that He wishes me to fulfil.”

The Blessed Uthman (ra)’s First Sermon:

When he approached the pulpit to give the first sermon of his caliphate, after first giving praise to Allah, he said this:

O Muslims! You are living with the blessings of peace and security that occur with Islam. With this blessing, you have neared the end of your lives. May your ends be auspicious. Day and night, you have striven to the full extent of your abilities. But you must know that the things of this world are deceptive. Do not be deceived by the life of this world. Do not be haughty before Allah, but learn from what has already transpired. Do not be heedless or unaware. Be vigilant. Allah is not heedless. Those who loved this world, who were devoted to it and built commercial buildings and palaces that we see everywhere before us — where are they now? Where are those worldly dynasties that ruled for so long? Was this world loyal to them? Learn from these individuals and do not overestimate this world, which Allah regards as insignificant. Prepare for the Hereafter, which is your eternal Abode.

Uthman (ra) added, “There is a good example of this in the Qur’an” and finished his sermon by quoting the verse: “Wealth and sons are the embellishment of the life of this world. But in your Lord’s sight, right actions are lasting and bring a better reward and a better basis for hope.” (Surat al-Kahf: 46)

1 Hadrath Uthman (ra); www.islam4you.co.uk/news/articles/ 209/1/Hadhrat-Uthmaan-(Radhiallaahu-Anhu)

2 “Assessment;” http://www.witness-pioneer.org/vil/Articles/companion/54_uthman_bin_ghani.htm

3 Hz. Osman (Uthman (ra)); http://www.huzuradogru.com/eshabikiram/hz_osman.htm

4 Hz. Osman (Uthman (ra)); http://www.diyanet.gov.tr/diyanet/2001cocuk/temmuz/hzosman.htm

5 Dogustan Gunumuze Buyuk Islam Tarihi (The Great Islam History: From beginning to today), p. 212.

6 Levent Ozturk, Asr-i Saadetten Hacli Seferlerine Kadar Islam Toplumunda Hiristiyanlar (Christians in Islamic Society from the Blessed Period of the Prophet to the Crusades) (Istanbul: Iz Publishing Co., 1998), pp. 114-15

7 Hz. Osman (Uthman (ra)); http://www.diyanet.gov.tr/DIYANET/2002aylik/nisan/portre.htm

8 Imam Suyuti, Olaganustu Yonleriyle Peygamberimiz (sav) el-Hasaisu’l-Kubra, trans: Naim Erdogan Iz Yayincilik, Istanbul, 2003, p. 729

9 Tirmidhi hadiths.

10 R. O. Mahmud Sami, Hz. Osman (r.a), Erkam Publishing, p. 143

11 Hz. Osman (Uthman (ra)); http://www.diyanet.gov.tr/DIYANET/2002aylik/nisan/portre.htm

12 Ibid.

13 Ibid.

14 Hz. Osman (Uthman (ra)); http://www.diyanet.gov.tr/diyanet/2001cocuk/temmuz/hzosman.htm

15 http://www.dinibilgiler.org/BirBileneSoralim/EshabiKiramveIbniSebeciler/01-Eshab-iKiramveEhl-iBeytinFazileti/07-HzOsmaniZinnureyn.htm

Under the pen name of Harun Yahya, Adnan Oktar has written some 250 works. His books contain a total of 46,000 pages and 31,500 illustrations. Of these books, 7,000 pages and 6,000 illustrations deal with the collapse of the Theory of Evolution. You can read, free of charge, all the books Adnan Oktar has written under the pen name Harun Yahya on these websites www.harunyahya.com

7. Values of Faithfulness (Trustworthiness)“Faithfulness is the cornerstone of one’s character” – Edwin Louis ColeLuke 16:10, 12 – (NKJV) – He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own?1 Corinthians 4:2 – (NKJV) Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.

Faithful is our manna, especially to the things that belong to another man. If we are faithful in the little things, we will be faithful in much. Without faithfulness, there is nothing to build that will last. Be faithful in the things placed into your hands whether be it in submitting your works on time, not taking things from the office home for your personal use, be a good steward in your finances and, so forth.8. Values of Hard Work (Diligence)2 Peter 1:5 – (NKJV) – But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge.2 Thessalonians 3:10 – (NKJV) – For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.Ephesians 4:28 – (NKJV) Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need.

The bible tells us to give all our diligence in the things we do. Paul says that if we do not work, we do not get to eat. For an organization to grow, the employees must be hard working and labour with their hands things that are good. In times to come, those who work hard and store up, will also be able to give to those who are in needs.9. Values of Integrity (Truthfulness)John 14:6 – (NKJV) Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.John 8:44 – (NKJV) You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.Matthew 9:12-13 – (NKJV) When Jesus heard that, He said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. 13 But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice.’ For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.”

The moment you lie, trust is broken. In this broken world, you know you can tell the truth and still be loved. Better be your way and greater be your life if you build your life on truth. John 8:44 tells us that Satan is a liar and there is no truth in him. He is different from Jesus. Jesus is the truth and there is no lie in Him. When you lie, you walk in lies. You made the devil your father, who is the father of lies. There is no glory, honour and praise in the lack of integrity. But Jesus said that He did not come for those who are well, righteous and rich – Matthew 9:12-13. He came for those who are sick and unloved. When we sin, when we lie, we can repent and return to God. He will welcome you gladly back into His arms. The church of God has rooms for people who are weak, for people who fail, for those that the world rejects. In our marriage, between husband and wife, it must be built on truth and love.10. Values of Generosity (Be a Giver/ Have a Generous Heart and Spirit)Acts 20:35 – (NKJV) I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’1 Timothy 6:6-8; (NKJV) – Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.James 3:14-15; (NKJV) – But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.

One of the best ways to break envy is to be a giver. The more you give, the blessed you will be. When you are envious of people and covets after their possessions, it is demonic. It is self-centredness ruling and it is carnal, of the flesh. It does not come from God.

Where do these ten values come from? Please visit Sermon Alive and also look at the part 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6. Go to www.sermonalive.com

In the Qur’an, Allah commands believers to “Be upholders of justice, bearing witness for Allah alone, even against yourselves or your parents and relatives. Whether they are rich or poor, Allah is well able to look after them. Do not follow your own desires and deviate from the truth…” (Surat an-Nisa’: 135). With the rules he imposed on Muslims, his just and tolerant attitude towards those of other religions, languages, races and tribes, and his way of not discriminating between rich and poor, but treating everybody equally, Allah’s Messenger (saas) is a great example to all of mankind. Allah says this to His Prophet (saas) in one verse:

They are people who listen to lies and consume ill-gotten gains. If they come to you, you can either judge between them or turn away from them. If you turn away from them, they cannot harm you in any way. But if you do judge, judge between them justly. Allah loves the just. (Surat al-Ma’ida: 42)

The Prophet (saas) abided by Allah’s commands, even with such difficult people, and never made any concessions in his implementation of justice. He became an example for all times with the words, “My Lord has commanded justice…” (Surat al-A‘raf: 29).

A number of incidents testify to the Prophet (saas)’s justice. He lived in a place where people of different religions, languages, races and tribes all co-existed. It was very difficult for those societies to live together in peace and security, and to check those who sought to spread dissension. One group could grow aggressive towards and even attack another over the slightest word or action. Yet, the justice of the Prophet (saas) was a source of peace and security for those other communities, just as much as it was for Muslims. During the time of the Prophet (saas), Christians, Jews and pagans were all treated equally. The Prophet (saas) abided by the verse “There is no compulsion where the religion is concerned…” (Surat al-Baqara: 256), explaining the true religion to everyone, but leaving them free to make up their own minds.

In another verse, Allah revealed to the Prophet (saas) the kind of justice and and conciliation he needed to adopt towards those of other religions:

So call and go straight as you have been ordered to. Do not follow their whims and desires but say, “I believe in a Book sent down by Allah and I am ordered to be just between you. Allah is our Lord and your Lord. We have our actions and you have your actions. There is no debate between us and you. Allah will gather us all together. He is our final destination.” (Surat ash-Shura: 15)

This noble attitude of the Prophet (saas), being in total harmony with the morality of the Qur’an, should be taken as an example of how members of different religions today should be treated.

The Prophet (saas)’s justice brought about understanding between people of different races. In many of his addresses, even in his final sermon, the Prophet (saas) stated that superiority lay not in race but in godliness as Allah states in the verse:

Mankind! We created you from a male and female,and made you into peoples and tribes so that you might come to know each other. The noblest among you in Allah’s sight is that one of you who best performs his duty. Allah is All-Knowing, All-Aware. (Surat al-Hujurat: 13)

Two hadiths report the Prophet (saas) as saying:

“You are sons of Adam, and Adam came from dust. Let the people cease to boast about their ancestors.” (1)

“These genealogies of yours are not a reason to revile anyone. You are all children of Adam. No one has any superiority over another except in religion and taqwa (godliness).” (2)

During his final sermon, the Prophet (saas) called on Muslims in these terms:

“There is no superiority for an Arab over a non-Arab and for a non-Arab over an Arab; nor for white over the black nor for the black over the white except in piety. Verily the noblest among you is he who is the most pious.” (3)

The agreement made with the Christians of Najran in the south of the Arabian Peninsula was another fine example of the justice of the Prophet (saas). One of the articles in the agreement reads:

“The lives of the people of Najran and its surrounding area, their religion, their land, property, cattle and those of them who are present or absent, their messengers and their places of worship are under the protection of Allah and guardianship of His Prophet.” (4)

The Compact of Medina, signed by the Muslim immigrants from Mecca, the indigenous Muslims of Medina and the Jews of Medina is another important example of justice. As a result of this constitution, which established justice between communities with differing beliefs and ensured the protection of their various interests, long years of enmity were brought to an end. One of the most outstanding features of the treaty is the freedom of belief it established. The relevant article reads:

“The Jews of Banu ‘Awf are one nation with the Muslims; the Jews have their religion and the Muslims have theirs…” (5)

Article 16 of the treaty reads: “The Jew who follows us is surely entitled to our support and the same equal rights as any one of us. He shall not be wronged nor his enemy be assisted.” (6) The Prophet (saas)’s companions remained true to that article in the treaty, even after his death, and even practiced it with regard to Berbers, Buddhists, Brahmans and people of other beliefs.

One of the main reasons why the golden age of Islam was one of peace and security was the Prophet (saas)’s just attitude, itself a reflection of Qur’anic morality.

The justice of the Prophet (saas) also awoke feelings of confidence in non-Muslims, and many, including polytheists, asked to be taken under his protection. Allah revealed the following request from the polytheists in the Qur’an, and also told the Prophet (saas) of the attitude he should adopt towards such people:

If any of the idolators ask you for protection, give them protection until they have heard the words of Allah. Then convey them to a place where they are safe. That is because they are a people who do not know. How could any of the idolators possibly have a treaty with Allah and with His Messenger, except for those you made a treaty with at the Masjid al-Haram? As long as they are straight with you, be straight with them. Allah loves those who do their duty. (Surat at-Tawba: 6-7)

In our day, the only solution to the fighting and conflict going on all over the world is to adopt the morality of the Qur’an, and, like the Prophet (saas), never to depart from the path of justice, making no distinction between different religions, languages, or races. The Prophet (saas)’s human love, kind thought and compassion, which turned those around him to true religion and warmed their hearts to faith, is that superior morality which all Muslims should seek to reproduce. (For further reading about the attributes of the Prophet (saas), see “The Prophet Muhammad (saas)” by Harun Yahya)

1 Sunan Abu Dawud, Book 41, Number 5097

2 Ahmad, 158/4

3 Prophet Muhammad’s Last Sermon (http://www.stanford.edu/~jamila/Sermon.html)

4 The Pact of Najran, Article 6, http://www.islamicresources.com/Pact-of-Najran.htm

5 The Constitution of Madina, http://www.islamic-study.org/jews-prophet-p.-2.htm

6 The Constitution of Madina, http://www.islamic-study.org/jews-prophet-p.-2.htm

Under the pen name of Harun Yahya, Adnan Oktar has written some 250 works. His books contain a total of 46,000 pages and 31,500 illustrations. Of these books, 7,000 pages and 6,000 illustrations deal with the collapse of the Theory of Evolution. You can read, free of charge, all the books Adnan Oktar has written under the pen name Harun Yahya on these websites www.harunyahya.com