Morality and Ethics in Islam

Culture is a set of habits, rules and regulations, which a group of people follows as part of their lives.

Islamic culture is how we Muslims should behave. It is the way Muslims are taught to live and is based on the two sources of the Noble Qur'an and Hadith. A Muslim should understand and practice this knowledge, since when these two sources are combined, we have the way and means to lead a life, which will lead to perfection and contentment.

There are countless examples of what we should do and how we should act, but the essence of all these actions is having good morality.

To have good Akhlaaq (Morality, Moral Values), you have to follow a very simple rule. The Prophet Jesus (AS), the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and Imam Ali (AS) have all emphasized one message and that is: Treat others the way you would like them to treat you. Whenever you do an action, ask yourself, "Would the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and Imam Ali (AS) do that?" Then think about answer before you perform the action.

To have good Akhlaaq (Morality, Moral Values), you have to follow a very simple rule. The Prophet Jesus (AS), the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and Imam Ali (AS) have all emphasized one message and that is:

Treat others the way you would like them to treat you.

Whenever you do an action, ask yourself, "Would the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and Imam Ali (AS) do that?" Then think about answer before you perform the action.

The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was once asked why he came to the world, what was his purpose? He replied,

"I have been sent to complete the nobility of your character."

This means that the main purpose of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was to improve and perfect the Islamic culture, the noble character of a person, and thus the community.

It is very important that we should have a good Islamic culture at home, since this is where the foundation is set for raising children. We should make sure that we all recite Salaat (daily prayer) on time. If possible, we should pray Salaat-e-Jamaat (congregational prayer) at home, with the father leading and the children following. The mother should teach the girls the importance of wearing Hijab and the parents should explain about the sins and habits, which Islam discourages.

We must make Islamic culture part of our day-to-day lives, not just something we put on for the mosque, or for school. Only then will we benefit both in this life, and the next.

Once Imam Ali (AS) was asked, who is a believer? He answered as to what the characteristics of a believer should include,

The believer is one with whom peoples' life, wealth and dignity are safe. When powerful, he forgives easily. He is generous in appropriate ways. His behavior is gentle. His actions and walk reflect modesty. People enjoy his affection and calmness. He is ready to bear pain in order to comfort others. In friendship, he is sincere. He honors his promises. He helps the oppressed and is concerned about the deprived. He does not abandon those in distress; he tries to relieve their burdens. He respects the rights of those who are absent. He accepts the apologies of those at fault. He assists those who have assisted him. He does not divulge peoples' secrets. He does not inquire into secret affairs, which do not concern him. He sets a good example for those who succeed him. His good deeds are not performed for the sake of being boastful. He does not fall into the same difficulty twice.