By Abubakar Haruna
In Islam, character is paramount such that Allah and His Prophet (SAW) emphasized the importance of character (Khuluq) several times in the Quran and in the hadith.
Khuluq, as a character or disposition, plays an important role in Islamic psychology. It refers to the moral and ethical qualities of an individual and encompasses various aspects such as behaviour, attitudes, and virtues. In Islamic teachings, developing good khuluq is highly encouraged as it leads to personal growth, spiritual well-being, and positive interactions with people.
The Quran and Hadith provide guidance on the significance and role of shaping a person’s behaviour and character. Here are some of the major references related to the khuluq in Islamic psychology:
In the Quranic, Allah says:
“You are truly of a tremendous character.” (Quran 68:4).
This refers to the Prophet (SAW) himself and Allah has purified him with good manners.
“And speak to people good [words].” (Quran 2:83).
Allah instructed the Prophet (SAW) to speak truth to mankind when preaching.
“And hasten to forgiveness from your Lord and a garden [Paradise] as wide as the heavens and earth, prepared for the righteous.” (Quran 3:133).
For whatever one failed to do, seek forgiveness from Allah and paradise is prepared for those who did the right things.
Hadith from Sunan Abu Dawood, Sahih Bukhari and Sunan Ibn Majah emphasize the significance of khuluq and its role in spiritual position.
In Ahadith, the Prophet (peace be upon him) says:
“The heaviest thing to be placed in the balance of a believer on the Day of Resurrection will be good character.” (Sunan Abu Dawood).
Here the Prophet (SAW) emphasized doing good and good character. Those who behave with good character will see the benefit of it on the day of resurrection reflected in their scales, such that the weight of their good character will be a factor that grants them entry to Paradise.
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) advised his companions to strive for good khuluq:
“The best among you are those who have the best character.” (Sahih Bukhari).
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) advised his companions, the Sahabah, to embrace good character and the best among all is for good character.
“Indeed among the believers with the most complete faith is the one who is the best in conduct, and the most kind to his family.”
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized being kind not just to others but especially to one’s family.
In conclusion, khuluq plays an important role in Islam by shaping the moral behaviour of people in attaining high spiritual well-being. We are encouraged to deal with all people with a positive personality, especially our family, to attain Allah’s pleasure and paradise.
