“Attributes of Slaves” The idea of serving Allah, the Most Beneficent, is fundamental to the spiritual path in Islam. Renowned Islamic scholar Sheikh Dr. Saalih Ibn Sa’d As-Suhaimi lists fifteen characteristics of the real slaves of the Most Beneficent. These qualities act as a set of rules for Muslims who want to live moral lives and get closer to Allah.
Sincerity (Ikhlas):
Sincere worshippers and servants of the Most Beneficent are motivated solely by Allah’s pleasure and serve Him with sincere intentions.
Humility (Tawadu):
They have a humble attitude, acknowledging their own frailties and inadequacies in comparison to Allah’s magnificence.
Gratitude (Shukr):
They recognise Allah’s kindness in all facets of their lives and are ever-grateful for the blessings He has bestowed upon them.
Patience (Sabr):
They show patience and perseverance in the face of hardship and adversity, putting their faith in Allah’s knowledge and will.
Repentance (Tawbah):
They humbly turn to Allah in remorse and sincerity, asking for His pardon and mercy for their transgressions.
Trust (Tawakkul):
They totally rely on Allah, seeking His guidance, protection, and provision in every situation.
Satisfaction (Qana’ah):
They are happy with whatever Allah has planned for them and find contentment and satisfaction in His decree.
Forgiveness (‘Afuw):
They show forgiveness to those who have wronged them, imitating the Most Beneficent Himself.
Generosity (Sakha’):
As a reflection of Allah’s generosity towards them, they are giving in their interactions with others, lending their resources and wealth to those in need.
Justice (‘Adl):
According to Islamic teachings, they treat others with equity and righteousness and uphold justice and fairness in their deeds.
Mercy (Rahmah):
They treat everyone and everything with kindness and compassion, mirroring the mercy of the Most Beneficent, who is the embodiment of mercy.
Knowledge (‘Ilm): They strive to increase their comprehension of Islam and put it into practice in their daily lives by seeking knowledge of the Quran and Sunnah.
Paternal ties (Silat al-Rahm):
They value family ties in Islam and uphold close relationships with their relatives.
Good character (Husn al-Khuluq):
They aspire to the high standards set by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), displaying qualities like honesty, integrity, and humility.
Constant Remembrance (Dhikr):
They keep their hearts linked to their Creator at all times by regularly remembering Allah through prayers, supplications, and Quran recitation.
The essence of serving the Most Beneficent is encapsulated in these 15 attributes, according to Sheikh Dr. Saalih Ibn Sa’d As-Suhaimi. Muslims can work towards spiritual ascent and intimacy with Allah by emulating these traits, ultimately pursuing His pleasure and achieving success in this life as well as the Hereafter.
