Essential Characteristics of a Devoted and Practicing Muslim: Upholding the Path of Righteousness

As a devoted Muslim, one is not just a follower of religion but a conscious participant in the continuous struggle for the betterment of society and the perseverance in adhering to the teachings and principles of Islam. This dedication is not only expressed through prayers and adherence to religious observances but also through active engagement in the wider framework of Muslims' social and individual duties.

It is important to understand that each verse and tradition from the Quran and Hadith provides guidance on how a true Muslim should conduct themselves in the world today. The Quran refers to true believers and Muslims in an almost interchangeably way, emphasizing the qualities that define both these groups as the righteous and committed adherents of Islam. The passage from Surah Al-Ahzab 33:35, which highlights this concept, reads:

‘Indeed the Muslim men and Muslim women, the believing men and believing women are (as one unit in) their love for each other and their sympathetic care for each other.’

These individuals are called upon to fight for the cause of Allah, which encompasses both armed struggle (jihad) and spiritual and moral combat (the internal struggle against evil). Just as one cannot divorce the political and social dimensions from religious devotion, neither can one truly separate individual spirituality from the community's well-being. It is a continuation of the relationship of faith that has existed since the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Enduring Faith Amidst Adversity

A believer is defined not only by their obedience to the prescribed rituals but also by their response to the challenges and injustices in the world. The true test of faith lies in maintaining steadfastness in the face of hardship and oppression, a characteristic exemplified through the life of the Prophet Muhammad himself and the companions who followed him. As we see in the life of the early Muslims, there was a continuous struggle to establish a just and righteous society in the face of resistance from the oppressive and pagan society.

Upholding Justice and Protecting the Community

A devout Muslim would never remain inactive or indifferent towards the plight of oppressed Muslims or other communities. The Quran emphasizes the importance of standing up for justice and the support of oppressed individuals. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has said, “Whosoever removes one of the prohibitions of my nation, or buries one of their obstacles, Allah (SWT) will remove one of his prohibitions and one of his barriers on the Day of Judgment.”

The Road of Hijrah and Jihad

No discussion of the characteristics of a devout Muslim can be complete without mentioning the two crucial paths of Hijrah (migration) and Jihad (struggle). According to Islamic tradition, Hijrah (migration) can be both literal and metaphorical – it refers to the physical journey or the change of heart from disbelief to belief, as well as the willingness to move to a place where Islam can flourish.

Jihad, on the other hand, encompasses both internal and external forms of struggle. The internal jihad is the continuous struggle to cleanse one's soul from evils and to seek the pleasure of Allah, as described in the hadith narrated by Abu Hurairah: "The best jihads are for someone to say a truth in the presence of a ruler who disapproves of it; or to confront an oppressor with a strong word in the way of Allah; or to fight in the path of Allah." The external jihad, which includes armed struggle for justice and defense of Muslims, is only considered when peaceful means have failed and is subject to strict guidance from Islamic law.

A tangible Example from Early Islam

A great example of these characteristics in action can be seen in the hadith narrated by Saburah bin al Fakah, as detailed in the report:

“Shaytaan has intercepted the son of Adam on his path towards Islam and told him: Are you going to become Muslim and leave your heritage and the religion of your forefathers? But the son of Adam disobeyed him and became a Muslim and was forgiven. Then Shaytaan sat for him on his path to Hijrah and told him: Will you make Hijrah and leave behind your home and land? He disobeyed him and made Hijrah. He than sat for him on his path towards Jihad and told him: Are you going to fight and it is an exhaustion of your self and wealth? You would go to kill and would be killed and then your wife would be taken and your wealth divided. The son of Adam disobeyed him and went on Jihad. The Messenger of Allah then said: “Whoever does that it is incumbent upon Allah to admit him to Paradise or if he dies by his animal striking him he would go to Paradise.”

This narration vividly illustrates the profound commitment required to embrace faith fully, the sacrifices made in the name of one's beliefs, and the ultimate reward promised.

Concluding Thoughts

The journey of a devoted Muslim is one of continuous striving, learning, and action. True devotion is not mere lip service or adherence to rituals but a deep commitment to embodying the values and principles of Islam in one's everyday life. It is about being a shining example of righteousness and a voice for justice, and it is about the unwavering faith that drives one to make the necessary sacrifices and migrations for the greater good of humanity.

As we reflect on the teachings and practices of our faith, let us strive to embody these essential characteristics, drawing inspiration from the prophets, the companions, and those who have walked the path before us, and let us work tirelessly to uphold the path of righteousness.