Good Deeds
Virtues of Righteousness in the Islamic Tradition
Omar Amanat & Sajj Ahmed
The monthly ASMA men's and women's group met to discuss and share the virtues of righteousness found in the Islamic tradition. It was found that in the Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah , Ayat # 177 embodies the highest and most noble principles for us to live by:
"It is not Righteousness that you turn your faces towards East or West; but it is Righteousness to believe in God...to spend of your substance, out of love for Him, for orphans, for your kin...to fulfill the contracts which you have made; and to be firm and patient..."
This Verse instructs us that we must not focus on mere rituals of religion. It compels us to look deep within ourselves to find love for God and our fellow human beings and act with kindness, humility, and generosity. God urges us to tend to the sick, care for the poor, the needy and protect the oppressed.
In another verse God also urges us to be good to our parents, relatives, neighbors and even to travelers. While God loves his devout servants, he also reminds us that he does not love the arrogant and boastful.
God reminds us to fulfill our promises and be firm and patient during times of trial and hardship. These are universal principles leading to the highest moral character in all human beings.
The participants in the Group also compiled their own list of virtues and small acts of kindness that can be practiced daily.
Top ten Virtues
- Listen without judging. Be a friend to someone.
- Focus on the good qualities of others while ignoring their bad qualities
- Offer the most of yourself while expecting the least from the other
- Treat others the same way you would want to be treated
- Let go of anger and resentment.
- Be Patient, it is the greatest gift
- Be quick to forgive others
- Always watch your intention, all actions are judged by their intention.
- Build bridges with those of other faiths
- Go out of your way for others.
Top Ten Acts of Kindness
- Smile at others.
- Call your Mother
- Donate used or new clothing
- Visit the sick & elderly
- Give a dollar to the homeless or needy
- Give a hug and feel the shift in their energy
- If you love someone make sure you tell them.
- Tutor a child
- Recognize and compliment people
- Help elderly neighbors and parents with small chores
Daily acts of Kindness for Bustling cities like New York
- Hold the elevator door for others
- Help people dig their car out from the snow or wherever.
- Give your taxi to others.
- Give blood.
- Be kind to tourists
- Share or give up your umbrella .
- Help people with money change for trains and buses
- Look for opportunities to help others like helping the women with strollers.
- Help in a soup kitchen
- Give a book as present
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