8.2, Calling to Islam and Giving Counsel

In the Name of Allah, the Most Glorified and Exalted, who says in the Qur’an, “The believers are nothing else than brothers (in Islamic religion).” (49:10)

Allah also informs us in the Qur’an, “(Nuh said) I give sincere advice to you.” (7:62)

And in another place, “(And Huud said) And I am a trustworthy adviser (or well-wisher) for you.” (7:68)

Islam is a religion that teaches unselfishness. We want what is best not only for our selves but also for those around us; our family, friends, colleagues, neighbours and everyone else in contact with us, and what better treasure to share than that of Islam; a complete system of life that brings with it the ultimate contentment of heart, mind and soul.

Tameem bin Aus Ad-Daaree (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW) said, “Ad-Deen is sincerity.” We asked, “For whom?” He (SAW) replied, “For Allah, His Book, His Messenger and for the leaders of the Muslims and their masses.” (Muslim)

This short conversation stresses the importance and merits of general sincerity.

The goodwill (i.e. sincerity) for the Muslim rulers stands here for co-operating with them in their lawful orders. If they deviate from the Straight Path they should be counselled and persuaded to return to virtue.

The goodwill (i.e. sincerity) for the Muslim masses means that we should work for the betterment of their life in this world and the Hereafter. They should be provided right guidance, induced to perform good deeds and deterred from evils.

So important is this concept of giving counsel to one another that Jareer bin ‘Abdullah (RA) reported: "I made my covenant with the Messenger of Allah (SAW) on the observance of Salah, payment of Zakah, and giving counsel to the Muslims." (Bukhari and Muslim)

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of goodwill to all the Muslims to the extent that the Prophet (SAW) would require his Companions to vow for their goodwill giving counsel to each other in the same way as he did in the case of Salat and Zakat.

Lastly, Anas (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW) said, “None of you becomes a true believer until he likes for his brother what he likes for himself.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

We learn from this the importance and virtue of mutual love among the Muslims. If we were to act upon the injunctions mentioned in this Hadith we would be purged immediately of the evils like exploitation, bribery, dishonesty, falsehood, cheating, forgery, etc., which are rampant in our societies. Islam has taught us golden principles but because we do not live according to them and assist one another to do so we lead lives of disgrace and moral shame. May Allah guide us to the Straight Path.