“Bismillah (In the name of God)”
True strength is not loud or forceful, it is quiet, patient, and humble. Here’s how Allah describes His servants:
“And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth easily, and when the ignorant address them, they say, ‘Peace.’” (25:63)
In reading this verse, you might think that it is an easy thing to do. However, when someone hurts your feelings, belittle you or do things to make you angry. It’s almost impossible to restrain yourself from doing the same thing to that person.
What does humility look like?
When I think of humility, the story of Prophet Joseph (PBUH) comes to mind. (12: 24-27). She tried to seduce him, but he ran from her. When the truth was revealed, he could have puffed himself with pride by telling people that he refused her but instead of showing off, he stayed quiet.
Why do I consider that humility?
Because Joseph (PBUH) was her slave. He should have obeyed her. His refusal had taken her power, thus giving him room to boast or show his superiority over her.
Also, in (12: 36-41), this is when the two prisoners asked him to interpret their dreams for them. He listened to them and explained the meaning of each dream without boasting or showing off. He went as far as to tell them that his ability to interpret dream was a favor from the One God because he knew that they were not believers nor worshippers of the God that he worshipped.
He said, “No food is served to you, but I have informed you about it before you have received it. That is some of what my Lord has taught me. I have forsaken the tradition of people who do not believe in God; and regarding the Hereafter, they are deniers.” (12:37)
Finally, after years of hardship and separation from his father, Prophet Joseph met his brothers who had put him in the well. He was a powerful man now. He could have flaunted his position and his power to them, but he didn’t. Instead, he gave them whatever they had bought by returning their money to them. At the end, when they returned to him in poverty, after he asked about what they did to Joseph, he could have reminded them of their previous actions and shown them off. Instead;
He said, “There is no blame upon you today. God will forgive you. He is the Most Merciful of the merciful.” (12:92)
How amazing is that? He forgave his brothers.
Humility softens hearts, reduces conflict, and strengthens relationships with Allah (God) and people. Ramadan is the perfect time to practice humility: in speech, actions, and thoughts. Let’s strive to be one of the servants who are described by Allah (God).
Ask yourself
- Where can I practice humility today?
- How do I respond to ignorance or criticism?
- What does strength mean in the eyes of Allah?
Prayer
O Allah, make me humble in heart, soft in speech, and strong in faith. Ameen