Musnad Shihab

Explanation—Sayyiduna Nawas bin Sam’an radi Allahu anhu asked the Prophet sallallahu alayhi wa sallam about the reality of virtue and sin. Regarding virtue, the Prophet sallallahu alayhi wa sallam said that virtue is good character. However, what the Prophet sallallahu alayhi wa sallam said regarding sin is not mentioned in this narration because it is abridged here. Nevertheless, in other books it is stated: “Sin is that which pricks your heart and you dislike that people should come to know of it.” (Muslim: 2553)

“Virtue is good character.” In this, there is also an indication towards the excellence of good character. Good character is also called noble character and good manners. It refers to those high qualities and behaviors of a Muslim which are beneficial for Allah’s creation and in accordance with Islamic teachings. The Noble Prophet sallallahu alayhi wa sallam has called it virtue—how great a virtue is this! Reflect on the following ahadith:

①: “The best among you is the one who is best in character among you.” (Bukhari: 3559)

②: “The most beloved to me among you is the one who is best in character among you.” (Bukhari: 3759)

③: “On the Day of Resurrection, nothing will be placed in the believer’s scale heavier than good character.” (al-Tirmidhi: 202, Hasan)

⑤: “The most complete in faith among the believers are those who are best in character among them.” (Abu Dawud: 4682, Hasan)