(The qualities in which the Arabs enjoyed supremacy over other nations – continued)

6. Eloquence of Language and Expression:

No other language can parallel the Arabic language in eloquence and expression. In fact, no other language can justifiably claim to possess books specifically compiled on ‘Ilm-ul-Balaaghah (the science of eloquence and expression) and even if some may be found, they have been taken from the Arabic books. Allah Ta‘ala had entrusted them with these outstanding morals, exceptional abilities and excellent skills by instilling them within their very nature and disposition. However, due to their ignorance and foolishness, they were more inclined to focus these Allah-given talents in the wrong direction. However, when these same skills and talents were adorned with divine knowledge and heavenly direction, then the same people whose practices were once worse than that of wild beasts now became superior to even the celestial angels. When these same people, who were blatantly steeped in vicious hostilities and ferocious conflicts, chose to surrender their lives in the path of Allah Ta‘ala, the celestial angels arrived, dressed in white, yellow or black turbans, fighting side by side with them and assisting them against their mutual enemy.

Nonetheless, although the Arabs were immorally corrupt in behaviour and deed, they were relatively decent as far as their morals, disposition and talents were concerned.

It is possible and relatively easy to rectify one’s actions. However, amending one’s innate disposition is almost impossible. It is for this reason that Allah Ta‘ala selected such a family for His prophethood, so that the Prophet who hails from this family would also be a man of upright morals, untarnished nature and immaculate disposition. It is absolutely crucial for a Prophet to be a man of flawless character as this will enable him to rectify others.

(Extracted from Seeratul Mustafa 1/42)

Abu Salamah Khuzaa‘ee (rahimahullah) mentions:

Whenever Imaam Maalik (rahimahullah) intended to go and narrate the Ahaadith of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), he would first perform wudhu, as a person performs wudhu for salaah. He would also wear his best clothing, wear a topi and comb his beard. When somebody asked him the reason for this, he replied, “I do this to honor the Ahaadith of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam).”

(Tahzeebul Kamaal 27/110)

The Prophecy of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) regarding Hazrat Abu Zar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) Passing Away Alone

Hazrat Abdullah bin Mas‘ood (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) narrates:

When Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) departed for Tabook, some people began to remain behind in order to abandon the expedition. As this would happen, the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) would inform Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) saying, “O Rasul of Allah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam)! So and so has remained behind.” On hearing this, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) would say, “Leave him. If there is any good in him then he will soon join us. If there is no good in him then Allah Ta‘ala has relieved you of his presence.” This continued until someone eventually called out to Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), “O Rasul of Allah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam)! Hazrat Abu Zar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) has remained behind on account of his camel not being able to move.”

(The qualities in which the Arabs enjoyed supremacy over other nations – continued)

2. Valor and Heroism:

The extent of their valor was such that whilst the Romans or Persians reduced the rest of the world to subjugation or slavery, the Arabs, in spite of their modest material possessions, were not intimidated into imperial subjugation. Their spirit of determination was such that the most pitiable destitute among them would not be left overawed whilst conversing with the greatest of emperors.

3. Generosity and selflessness:

They were so big-hearted that they would not hesitate to slaughter a healthy camel in honor of a guest. They were prepared to remain hungry, but it was impossible for them to allow the guest to go hungry.