What Is Islamic Life, and How Is It Lived?

Islam demands a harmony of faith and practice. Simply embracing the label of "Muslim" does not suffice to fulfill Islam's profound intentions for humanity. The Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) once said, "Faith is not mere wishful thinking or adornment, but something that settles in the heart and is confirmed by deeds." The lifestyle that aligns with a Muslim's faith is called "Islamic life." Contrary to misconceptions, Islamic life is not an abstract concept that molds to individual interpretation or demands expertise for understanding and implementation. Rather, it is crystal clear and transparent. Islam is "din-i mubin," meaning a manifest religion that presents a straightforward path for all to tread. Let us revisit the foundation and construction of the Islamic way of life.

Every human who believes in the Oneness of Allah, the status of Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) as the final prophet, and the Day of Judgment is a Muslim. A Muslim acknowledges that the sole true sovereign is Allah, who has sent prophets as beacons of light to guide humanity. By endorsing this truth, a Muslim bears witness. Now, the responsibility to shape oneself and one's life according to this truth begins. Preparing before this worldly life ends and the Day of Reckoning arrives is essential. Primarily, one should learn and live Islam as Allah and His Messenger relayed, devoid of personal interpolations. Forging religious understandings based on individual beliefs and thoughts is flawed and void. 

Religion must be embraced as revealed by Allah. Islam is the sole authentic source of knowledge about the realities of this world and the hereafter. This wisdom originates from Allah, the creator of every entity, living or inert. Allah, with wisdom both comprehensible and beyond human grasp, has shaped and determined the course of every creation. Only He has absolute dominion and influence over them. We recognize that living in line with the principles of Islam is the true path. We trust and submit to Allah. Our ultimate hope is to be embraced by Allah's mercy in the hereafter. This belief grants Muslims a life of tranquility and security, radiating the same peace and assurance to their surroundings. The world indeed benefits from the presence of Muslims. By living as prescribed by Islam, a Muslim ensures the rights of all creatures, preventing their degradation or extinction. Allah has created the universe as an interconnected whole, where every element is interdependent, influencing others positively or negatively. As inherently Muslim beings, humans have a place in this divine plan. Deviating from one's nature leads to alienation, causing harm to oneself and, subsequently, to the environment. Islam establishes rules to prevent such detachment from the truth. It lays out the dos and don'ts, thereby carving out a safe haven for life.

Fiqh Books and Islamic Principles

Our ilmihal books elegantly compile the rules of the religion and the commandments and prohibitions of Allah in a manner that Muslims of all levels can easily comprehend. The renowned "Büyük İslâm İlmihali" by our late scholar Ömer Nasuhi Bilmen serves as an example and a source for this article. This fiqh book readily offers the fundamental principles and duties outlining how a Muslim should live. Muslims have responsibilities. They are endowed with obligations, things they should do, and others they shouldn’t. Some of these duties are mandatory, reflecting the absolute commands and prohibitons of Allah, either to be executed or refrained from respectively. For instance, some deeds like prayer (salah), almsgiving (zakat), fasting, and pilgrimage (hajj) are mandatory. Likewise, Allah the Almighty unequivocally commands us to refrain from acts like lying, stealing, and unjustly shedding blood. However, some duties are recommended but not obligatory. Observing these recommendations, though not religiously mandatory, indicates a person's moral maturity, earning them thawabs. Such actions lead to the admiration and praise of all, chiefly that of Allah, the Lord of the Worlds. While neglecting these acts might signify a lack, it doesn't necessarily subject one to scrutiny or punishment. Examples include voluntary prayers, aiding the impoverished, generosity, and exhibiting kindness and politeness. These duties pertain to the akhlaq section in our fiqh books, while mandatory responsibilities are addressed in the worship section. 

Islamic morality is not tethered to individual interpretations, personal tastes, interests, or the changing trends of eras. Its foundation is revelation, carrying a divine significance. Thus, it meets the spiritual needs of individuals, provides satisfaction, and fosters growth and maturity. Owing to Islam, a religion of virtue and wisdom, a Muslim must possess an elevated moral perspective. Naturally, it's expected that they live reflecting this understanding, as a testament to their faith. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wa salam) said, "I was sent to perfect good character." It is the duty of his community, his ummah, to perpetuate this elevated morality.

It would be well outside the norm, contradictory even, for a Muslim, who adheres to the religion conveyed by the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam), to spend their life exhibiting poor character. A Muslim should feel the virtue and nobility of the morality taught to them and, thus, follow in the footsteps of the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam). Every person has the potential to transform their adverse behaviors and embrace this noble morality. The Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) has commanded, “Beautify your character.” It is observed that many who wrestle with undesirable inclinations and desires gradually develop good character and manners as long as they do so under the guidance of a murshid with staunch adherence to the Qur'an and Sunnah. This self-discipline is referred to as “tarbiyyatun nafs,” and everyone is obligated to undertake it.

Four duties of a Muslim

The duties of Muslims can primarily be divided into four categories:

• Duties towards Allah Almighty,

• Duties towards oneself, 

• Duties towards one’s family,

• Duties towards society.

A Man Destined for Paradise

The esteemed companion, Anas b. Malik (radiyallahu anh) narrated: 

We were seated in the presence of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam). He told us, 

– Soon, a person from the people of Paradise will arrive.

Shortly after, a man from the Ansar appeared. Water from his ablution was dripping from his beard. He had his shoes in his left hand. The next day and the day after, Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) repeated the same words, and on both occasions, the same man appeared. On the third day, after the prayers, I followed the man and said to him:

– There's a disagreement between my father and I. I cannot return home. Would you host me?

He agreed. I stayed with the man for three nights. He never woke up for night prayers. He slept until the morning prayers. Eventually, I revealed to him that there wasn’t any discord between my father and I. I was driven by curiosity due to what Rasulullah had said, hence I stayed with him. But I mentioned I hadn’t seen any extraordinary acts of worship from him. The man responded,

– Apart from what you saw, I have no other special acts of worship.

As I was leaving, he called out to me:

– As I said, apart from what you witnessed, I do not have any other special acts of worship. But one thing is certain: I never harbor any deceitful intentions, malice, or envy towards any Muslim.

Duties Towards Allah

• Every sane person who has reached the age of puberty is obligated to know Allah the Almighty and worship Him exclusively. This servitude is the greatest blessing and honor for a human. Only by worshipping Allah does a person find tranquility. Just as a child should recognize their parents, a sibling should recognize their brother or sister, and a friend should recognize their friend, a person should be aware of their intrinsic state of servitude. Otherwise, one forgets his Lord, remains in darkness, and lives this worldly life in vain. In such a case, the eternal life of the Hereafter becomes a source of torment.

• We acknowledge and affirm Allah's existence, oneness, power, greatness, and His blessed commandments and prohibitions. This demonstrates our faith. Consequently, we enthusiastically perform the obligations we're bound by, such as prayer, almsgiving, fasting, and pilgrimage. 

• Protecting and defending the land of Islam is also among our duties towards our Lord. Serving the religion and the land of Islam holds great significance for a Muslim. It's stated in a prophetic saying: "Perform jihad against the polytheists with your wealth, lives, and tongues."

• A person's battle with his nafs is indeed a form of spiritual jihad, a task of profound divine significance. Those who, under the refined guidance of Islamic teachings, can master their nafs dutifully serve not only themselves but also the broader realm of Islam. Such elevated sacrifices are borne from the depths of a distinguished Islamic tarbiyyah.

Duties to Oneself

Every individual has responsibilities towards themselves, some directed at the body and others at the soul.

• For every Muslim, it's essential to maintain purity and have a strong physique. Our body is a divine gift from Allah and is one of His wondrous creations. This body, which serves us in countless ways, should be treated with the same care and reverence we give to our gardens, homes, and vehicles. Efforts must be made to keep it robust and healthy.

• One must avoid foods, drinks, and behaviors that harm health. When ill, it's crucial to seek appropriate medical attention.

• In Islam, the consumption of alcohol is prohibited, as is removing any organ without a definitive need. The act of suicide, a form of homicide, is also forbidden. These actions amount to an assault on the precious life bestowed upon humans by Allah.

• Extreme ascetic practices like abstaining from eating day and night or completely denying oneself even halal pleasures are not allowed in Islam. In Islam, there is no monasticism that involves isolating oneself from society to engage in worship alone. The rituals and ascetic practices prescribed by our religion strike a balanced approach, neither dampening life's joys nor frustrating one’s ability to find contentment.

• Individuals must possess a firm will. They should embrace beneficial knowledge and actions while eschewing harmful ones. One should not emulate the misguided behaviors of others. It's paramount to stand with truth and justice; under no circumstance should one side with oppression, cruelty, or injustice. Efforts must never be expended in valorizing anything evil or harmful.

• It's vital to enlighten the mind with knowledge and wisdom and to kindle noble emotions within the heart. In Islam, acquiring knowledge and understanding holds significant importance. People should lead thoughtful lives, forever in pursuit of truth. 

Duties Towards One’s Family

In Islam, significant importance is accorded to marriage and establishing a family, and members within this unit owe mutual duties to each other.

• A man’s primary responsibility is to treat his wife kindly, protect her, provide for her material needs, and remain committed to his family. The Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Only the honorable treat women with honor and integrity, and only the dishonorable treat women disgracefully."

• A woman, in turn, is tasked with safeguarding her husband's honor and dignity. She should exhibit contentment, avoid israf, meaning extravagance and wastefulness, and support a harmonious marital life by adhering to religiously appropriate requests from her spouse.

• Children must respect and heed their parents and refrain from even uttering a word of disrespect like "uff." Those who neglect their parents, fail to listen to their religiously legitimate commands, or don't assist them in times of need, cannot be deemed righteous sons and daughters. Such individuals risk losing their human dignity and earn the wrath of Allah.

• Parents, on their part, nurture and raise their children, instilling in them good morals and preparing them for life. They ensure fairness and avoid favoritism. By adopting calm and gentle methods of upbringing, parents avoid causing rebellious tendencies in their children.

• As for siblings, their primary duties are to love, respect, and show compassion towards one another. The bond between siblings must be safeguarded. One must never let material interests sow discord among them.

Duties Towards Society

People coexist and carry out duties towards each other. Without such interactions, societal life cannot endure. And achieving and maintaining a structured, peaceful life becomes challenging.

• Every individual has the right to live. One's life cannot be taken unjustly. Taking a life is akin to a grave sin, as grievous as killing all of humanity. Conversely, saving a life is as meritorious as rescuing all of humankind.

• All humans are born free. Without valid reasons, they cannot be enslaved. However, this freedom should not be misused to the detriment of society.

• Every Muslim should wish for the guidance and happiness of all. Islam places great emphasis on this moral stance. There's also compassion for those inclined towards wrongdoing, with efforts directed at guiding them onto the right path.

• People should strive to kindly advise and help one another improve. Effort should never be made to suppress others or exert overbearing pressure on them. Everyone will answer to Allah for their own conscious decisions. Harming others is not permissible.

• Everyone's honor and dignity must be safeguarded. Behavior that contradicts this, such as backbiting, slander, mockery, and swearing, is strictly forbidden. Those who respect their own honor and dignity will protect that of others.

• Islam prohibits attacking one's property, theft, and robbery. Coveting another's possessions is frowned upon. Everyone should respect the divine distribution and earn through lawful means.

• Building relationships based on love and respect transforms our society into a sanctuary of trust and tranquility. Everyone must fulfill their roles with patience and wisdom. Not witnessing immediate returns on good deeds should not lead to despair or cessation of such acts.

• One should endure the wrongs of others without reciprocating. It is vital to overlook others' flaws and befriend them. Support should be given to those in need, and every individual should be made to feel respected. It's essential to remember that being a Muslim is not our own accomplishment. Our most profound gratitude for the blessing of Islam is living as Muslims in the manner Allah wants from us.

Moral Qualities Every Muslim Should Possess

• A Muslim abstains from forbidden and dubious acts out of fear of Allah. They act with truthfulness and justice, honoring their word. They safeguard trusts and avoid deceit.

• They act with decorum in speech and conduct, reflecting a good upbringing.

• They avoid ostentation and hypocrisy. Their actions, initiated with sincere intentions, seek only Allah's pleasure, unpolluted by desires for material gain, flattery, promotions, or status.

• They love to do good, showing forgiveness and benevolence.

• They play their part in ensuring the peace and well-being of their community. They respect elders, experienced individuals, and superiors and guide and assist the younger ones.

• They cleanse their interactions and behaviors towards others from anger and impatience. They are not hasty and don't allow their relationships to devolve into prideful competitions.

• They are gentle and cheerful, avoiding scowls and arrogance, and do not make their surroundings unbearable.

• They act with calmness and prudence. They fulfill their responsibilities and leave the outcomes to Allah's will, accepting His decree.

• They respect every living and non-living entity, valuing them as Allah's creations. However, they distance themselves from those rebellious against Allah and befriend His devoted servants.

• They do not consider anything unlucky or interpret things negatively. Instead, they remain hopeful, seeing potential good in everything. Their words reflect optimism and confidence.

• They don't get disheartened by challenges. They know they are naturally resilient, so they overcome all hardships with patience.

• They know how to listen and don’t talk excessively. They don't hide the truth or what's right. Ultimately, they maintain conversations to foster love and bonding among fellow believers.

• They hold sacred values, honor, and dignity in high regard. They avoid indecent actions, cover others' flaws, and only seek to improve their own shortcomings.

• They remember and are grateful for the kindness others show them. They express gratitude with grace and politeness in their words and actions.

• They display their knowledge and skills beautifully without pretending to be more than they are. They don't seek supremacy, boast, or see themselves as superior.

• They are reliable friends and helpers, appreciating and valuing others. They show compassion, mercy, and loyalty and fulfill their promises.

• They strive to ensure their existence, words, and actions bring about good and carefully avoid causing harm.

• A Muslim is always aware of Allah's presence. They remember Him and live every moment with an awareness of His presence, seeking His love and closeness.

These qualities constitute the grand Islamic moral code, a balanced ethic free from extremes. A Muslim discerns the right path using intellect and wisdom, differentiating between good and bad morals. With effort, one can adopt virtuous behavior, adhere firmly to the faith, and act according to what Allah and His Prophet order. A life lived by these principles is a true Islamic life. Both earthly and celestial beings make dua for such a person. The world is grateful to them. And inshallah they, "attain tranquility, returning to their Lord pleased and pleasing, joining the company of His chosen servants. They enter Paradise."