We have been looking at things to consider on our path to Jannah in a number of updates lately. In the last input, when discussing physical and moral benefits of Dhikr, I brought up the point of enhanced morality. It was only a brief mention that “a constant remembrance of Allah encourages muslims to hold to moral and ethical standards”. But while Dhikr, without a doubt, has positive effects on our morality, we can do more than remember our Creator in our efforts to improve…
سورة العنكبوت ٢
أَحَسِبَ ٱلنَّاسُ أَن يُتۡرَكُوٓاْ أَن يَقُولُوٓاْ ءَامَنَّا وَهُمۡ لَا يُفۡتَنُونَ
Surah Al-Ankaboot 29:2
Do men think that they will be left alone on saying, “We believe”, and that they will not be tested?
Enhanced morality touches on many aspects that we have covered in these inputs, and as I have said previously, let us consider how they are connected. One of the most important points (which I have discussed earlier) is self-awareness. That is the very key to improve our behavior… becoming more aware of ourselves.
* Self-Assessment: To regularly evaluate our actions, intentions, and behavior. We should try to make that a habit, as it will help us practice mindfulness. We often forget ourselves in this world. We are only human. Striving to improve our mindfulness and evaluate our actions and intentions will help us improve in many ways and help us make more ethical decisions, inshallah.
* Make Goals: We may benefit from striving with personal goals, such as being more honest, more compassionate, or more patient. If we do this, while keeping our minds focused on personal weaknesses, we may not only improve character but also develop a stronger self-awareness, inshallah.
* Read Literature: Indeed. Reading books and articles on ethics and morality may help us gain a deeper understanding and broader perspective. It doesn’t necessarily need to be a text tied to religion as there is research on ethics that may help us gain a larger understanding.
That being said, studying religious texts that provide guidance on moral behavior is certainly also advisable. Things that help us, one way or another, are always of benefit.
سورة البقرة ٢٦٩
وَمَن يُؤۡتَ ٱلۡحِكۡمَةَ فَقَدۡ أُوتِيَ خَيۡرٗا كَثِيرٗاۗ
Surah Al-Baqara 2:269
and whoever is given wisdom has been given much good
I hope the input has brought something to consider. We will continue to explore more points in the next input, inshallah, so be sure not to miss it. For now, I will take this opportunity to wish Jumma Mubarak and a beautiful time full of comfort and safety, for all of you, from the heart.
The best of times to you all inshallah.
Peace, happiness, and stay faithful.
1
1
1
1