Alhassanain(p) Network for Heritage and Islamic Thought

Breach of Promise

Various Responsibilities

Man comes to realize his responsibilities only when he reaches the stage of distinguishing between right and wrong.It is then that he can bear to observe the commands of the system of life and adhere to the chain of decisive decisions on which man’s happiness and integrity depend. In other words, he is able to create harmony between his behavior and his bodily and spiritual needs.

Performing one’s material and spiritual responsibilities is a necessity attested to by both reason and conscience, which call on man to steadfastly pursue advancement, and condemn such factors that cause disturbances in the system of living. Performing one’s responsibilities plays a great role in furthering good manners and spirituality.

Despite some beliefs, responsibility is not slavery but real freedom. Responsibility draws for man the behavioral order that conforms to the most adequate system of living. Man’s responsibilities exist as long as man exists but in varying forms. It is only appropriate to expect a person to fulfill his responsibilities if he is able and willing to do so.

Irresponsibility and violation of the rules is just ignorance of the fundamentals of life and an introduction to misery and destruction. There isnot agreater mistake than carelessness about members of society. Therefore, we must prevent the process of eliminating individual duties for the sake of fulfilling our lusts. People who are captives of their own lusts prefer their own wishes and personal interestsover their duties, which is the root of their failure and inability to reach human integrity at all.

According to Dr. Carl:

“A man who considers himself free to do anything is not like an eagle that roams the endless heavens but is like a runaway dog that finds himself in the middle of a street crowded with cars. This mancan be compared to the dog that does whatever its cravings dictate, yet the man is more misguided than the dog for he does not know where to go or how to rid himself of the many dangers that surround him.

“We all agree that nature is subjected to certain laws. We must also realize that man’s life must contain a sequence of laws and regulations. We imagine ourselves as beingtotally independent of nature, and do whatever we wish. We do not want to admit that controlling our lives is not any differentthan driving cars from the viewpoint that both need adherence to certain rules. It is as if we think that the realgoal for man is to eat, drink, sleep have sexual intercourse, and own a car, radio, etc...”

Obeying the rules is essential for human society, and thiscannot be done without constantly observing the rules. Those who rely on their personal abilities can observe the facts of life with the light of reason and logic; and therefore, can bear to under-take various duties. They organize their lives according to the fundamentals of righteousness and truth and accept their duties without complaining. If a person fails in anyway, he still can find reason to be proud, for such failure comes not but after fulfilling his responsibilities.

We must search for happiness in real felicity.Felicity together with tranquility provide those who adhere to the calls of their conscience with success. The reward of those who observe their responsibilities is self-confidence and the harmony of both the mind and the conscience. This comforting feeling stems from the soul of those who carry out their responsibilities in life.

The Importance of Vows and Disadvantages of Violating Them

One of man’s vital duties in life is observing his vows. It is man’s nature to feel resentful for violating his vows and to feel satisfaction and goodness when fulfilling them in both individual and social cases, regardless of his religion. The fundamentals on which a personis brought up play a tremendous role in his future conduct. Thus, the necessity of an adequate upbringing and the development of its fruitfulness, and refraining from thethings which damage man’s nature become readily obvious. Proper upbringing is the key to behavioral perfection.

Morality deems it necessary to observe and respect all verbal vows (agreements) thatare contracted between parties, even if they lack legal guarantees. Violation of vowsis considered as abandoning the rules of honor and dignity.

According toBuzarjumehr :“The violation of vows isolates honor.”

He who diverts himself from the right path by violating his vows (agreements) plants the seeds of refusal and resentment in the hearts of others. Eventually the violator’s actions will bring shame on him, he will then attempt to cover up his actions beneathexcuses and contradictions and finally the people who know this person will see that he is a misguided hypocrite.

Violation of oaths is surely among the most active elements in creating social dissention and weakening ties between people. Undoubtedly, a society that is overwhelmed by dissention and mistrust will eventuallyloose the balance of its social life and as aresult its members will not be able to trust anyone not even the closest of relatives.

There is a type of individual who is not only careless about keeping his promises but he considers treason (betrayal of trust) to be cleaver and good management; these people even brag about their actions to others.

Fulfilling promises is essential for a person who wishes to live a social life; it is the basis for social happiness, development, and success.

Itis narrated that a group ofKhawarij were captured during the time ofHajjaj , who reviewed their cases and sentenced them as he wished. When the last man was standing in front ofHajjaj waiting for his sentence, time for prayer arrived.Hajjaj heard the call forprayer and turned the prisoner over to a noble and told him to bring him back in the morning.

The noble man left the palace with the prisoner. As they werewalking the prisoner said:“I am not one of theKhawarij .I ask Allah by His Mercy to prove my innocence, for I am an innocent hostage in their hands.I ask you to let me spend the night with my wife and children so I can leave my will with them. I promise that I will return before the roaster crows in the morning.” After a moment of silence, the noble man agreed to the man’s insistence and permitted him to go home for the night.

A short time later the noble man fell victim to his fear and imagined that he would be the subject ofHajjaj’s fury. That night the man woke up terrified and was astonished to hear the prisoner, who he had given permission to go home, knocking at his door as he had promised. This noble man was overwhelmed with surprise and could not help but exclaim:“Why have you come to my door’?”

The prisonerreplied: “He who recognizes Allah’s greatness and power, and makes Him a witness to his oath, must fulfill his promise.

The noble man proceeded with the prisoner to the palace ofHajjaj , and narrated to him the complete story.Hajjaj , whois known for his ruthlessness, was so moved by the man’s honesty that he allowed him to go free.

Now suppose that a commercial establishment disregarded its commitment in fulfilling its duties and regulations. Would this behavior lead anywhere but down, for the establishment would lose its credibility among the people.

There isnot amore stabilizing factor than exchanged trust between members of a society. Interpersonal relations would not become stable, nor would trust become manifested in any society unless everyone gave as much importance to their verbal commitments as he does to his official and legal contracts. For example, a merchant should transfer goods on time to his clients, a borrower should pay his debts to his lenders.. .etc. It is then that disputescan be eliminated , and life can reach its ultimate goal.

It is essential for a person to review his capabilities before making any promises, and to refrain from commitments that are outside his reach. Even if a person cannot fulfill his promises or meet hiscommitments he is responsible for them. Thus, if a person is not careful of what he says, he makes himself subject to blame and criticism.

Islam Prohibits Breach of Promises

Man is bound to behave reasonablyso as to be considered a human being. The success of human societies istotally dependent upon the unity of its members. Therefore, it is of special importance that every personconduct his life according to the fundamentals of truth and righteousness, and wholeheartedly endeavors to refrain from any action that may cause dissention or disunity.

Furthermore, if the sanctity of oaths and promises stem from one’s faith and morality they are more likely tobe observed .

Islam so greatly condemns the violation of promises that it has made it illegal and unethical for its followers to violate their oaths even if theywere made with tyrants and desolates. Imam al-Baqir (a.s .) said:“There are three affairs for which Allah gave no license (permission to violate): Conveyance of trust to both the righteous and the fallacious; Fulfillment of promises to both the righteous and the fallacious; And kindness to the parents whether they are righteous or sinful.” 1

The Holy Qur’an describes the believers in the following way:

“And those who are keepers of their trusts and their covenants.” (23:8)

Furthermore, the Messenger of Allah (S) counted breach of promises among the signs of hypocrisy. Hesaid: “There are four traits that if one possess he is considered a hypocrite. If one of them is found in a person he has the characteristics of hypocrite unless he abandon it: (The four characteristics are) He who lies when he speaks; He who breaks his promises; He who betrays when he makes a vow; and He who erupts when he quarrels (with someone).” 2

Imam ‘Ali (a.s .) wrote the following toMalik AlAshtar :

“Refrain from bragging to your subjects about your kindness (to them), and from preferring yourself (as governor) to your subjects, or to promise them and follow your promises with betrayal: for bragging thwarts kindness, preference conceals the light of righteousness, and betrayal deserves Allah’s and people’s resentment.Allah. Glorybe to Him, said: it is a great resentment to Allah that you say that which you do not do:” 3

Imam ‘Ali (a.s .) said:

“Fulfillment (of promises) is twin to truthfulness, and I know of no shield better than (truthfulness).” 4

Islam gives special importance to the raising of children. It has clarified to parents their moral duties towards their children through strict and comprehensive commands. Unless parents perform their duties in accordance to these moral principles, they cannot teach their children to adherence to moral excellence.

This is because actions speak louder than words. Therefore, the Messenger of Allah (S) prohibited men from breaking promises to their children. He said:

“And a man shall not make a promise to his child and not fulfill it.” 5

Dr.Alindi said:

“A sixteen old boy who robbed a car every day was brought to me for treatment. I discovered that when the boy was seven or eight years old, his father had forced him to give his toy to anaristocrats daughter, for whom his father worked. That toy, to the boy, represented an ultimate dream for he had worked hard to get it. The boy’s father promised to buy a substitute toy but had unintentionally forgot. The hopeless boy sought revenge by stealing a piece of candy from his father’s pocket. A daylater the boy broke into a house and stole some items.

“It was not difficult to treat the boy when he was brought to me. It is possible that the boy would have come to be a dangerous criminal if he was not properly treated. But now his chances of becoming a reasonable and self-confident individual are much greater.” 6

Imam ‘Ali (a.s .) emphasizes the way one should behave with his friends. He said:

“If you adopt an intimate friend, be his servant and grant him authentic faith and true sincerity.” 7

Only people who possess excellent qualities and good morals are eligible for love and relationships.

The Messenger of Allah (S) said:

“The happiest among people is he who associates with kind people; he who does not oppress people when he deals with them; he who when he speaks does not lie; and he who when lie promises does not betray. He is of those whose valor is perfected, whose justness is manifest, and whose brotherhood is essential.”

According to Dr. Smiles:

“When you associate with spiritual people who possess noble traits, you feel an invincible power calling your souls and manners to excellence and majesty. Friendship with those who hold strong reason, noble traits, and more experience is a very valuable matter for such a relationship gives an opportunity to achieve high spirits, teach us new ways of appropriate behavior and direct our views about others to the righteous paths.”

Associating with kind people teaches us goodness and kindness, for good manners are like alight which lights that which is around it and all that is near it. In conclusion, all men should know their responsibilities towards vows and promises.

Notes

1. al-Kafi v.2, p. 162

2. Bihar al-Anwar v. 15, p. 234

3.Mustadrak al-Wasa’il v.2, p.85

4.Ghurar al-Hikam p. 228

5.Nahj al -Fasahah p. 201.

6. MaWa Farzandane Ma.

7.Ghurar al-Hikam p. 223.

Treachery

Mutual Trust and Performing Duties

Mutual trust is an essential element for the survival of a healthy and united society. A societyis considered happy and tranquil if the relations between its members are based on trust. Thus, if people violate the borders of their duties and become disloyal to other’s rights, they then start to descend on the slope of social destruction.

There are variouslaws which rule mankind’s different affairs. Every man has his share of theselaws which he is compelled by reason, nature and religion to follow. The purpose of these laws is to manifest the lights of trust and harmony in man’s life. Without theselaws man would ignore or become careless about his debt to Allah and society.

Man, as a social being, has no choice but to interact with his atmosphere; hence, creating countless social relationships.As a result of these relationships a chain of rights and duties stem. These rights and duties safeguard society from dissention, and pave the way for solving any possibleproblems which naturally occur with any relationship.

Regardless of the difficulty and inevitablesacrifices which come with social duties, they must be fulfilled in order to grant man comfort and happiness. Yes, it is in mans nature to seek happiness and wish to do so without bearing any hardships, but he must realize that happiness cannot happen be simply performing his duties towards the children of his kind. Itwas once said that:

“Happiness is the reward for performing one’s duties.”

Not only is the happiness of a society more important than individual happiness, but individual happiness istotally reliant on social tranquility. It is also clear that treason of social rights violates the spirit of social justice andcreate disorder in the social system. It is every man’s responsibility to respect the lives and freedom of others.

Those who accustom themselves to the serious fulfillment of their duties and take their obligations to Allah and society seriously, add to the happiness of others and help them succeed in their affairs. They also acquire the trust of others and triumph in the field of life.

Dr. S. Smiles says:

“Duties are man’s debts. He who intends to upkeep himself from discreditable and immoral values in the eyes of others must pay off his debt. Yet, such actionscan only be performed by continuous and serious struggle. Undertaking one’sduties is the principal matter which occupies man from the first day he enters this world until the day on which he departs it.

“Consequently, the more power and capabilities one possesses, the more he is required to perform his duties; for man is like a clerk whose duty is to serve children of his kind. This duty is based on the love of justice and is not only an ideological obligationbut , also a basic necessity of man’s life. Yet, both traits manifest their affects in his words and actions.

“The sense of responsibility is a great talent of nations; and a nation has hope of success if its members enjoy the noble sense of responsibility with conceit,arrogance and selfishness. This type of action deserves only condolences, for nature will deem it unfit to continue to survive sooner or later.”

Treachery and its Faults

No one doubts that there are manyfactors which greatly influence the spread of corruption. When a thorough investigation is carried out regarding thefactors which cause immorality and social lowliness, it becomes evident that the most influential factor of all is the prevalence of treason on men’s minds and reasons. We also discover that the danger which is inflicted on society from treachery and its devastating effects on social spirituality, exceed all other factors.

Treachery makes man’s spirit gloomy and leads his thoughts and affections to misguidance and total loss. This threat arises from the prevalence of lusts, when evil thoughts dictate acceptance of lowliness, and humiliation instead of receiving inspirations from reason and faith.

Everyone needs others to trust in him. A worker or a merchant can make some material gains through various types of treachery, and perhaps he may be able to conceal his plots and fabrication for a short period of time, but one day the matter will be uncovered causing him toloose hiscredibility which is his main capital. He also will tarnish the dignity of his social class by such actions. The treacherous people live in constant fear. They fear anxiety and instability and are usually pessimists.

It is a given fact that public tranquility and order depend on public security. Since the insecurity and deadlyanxiety which batters the social environment is caused by treachery, it threatens the essence of social life. Indeed, where there is no security from treason there can be no freedom,brotherhood , or humanity.

Treason is not limited to certain affairs, but comprehends all of man’s actions. When we examine words, and/or deeds we discover precise and vivid limits to it, and if anyone slightly strays from suchborders he abandons trustworthiness and enters the field of treachery and falsehood.

It is reported that a great man gave the followingadvise to his son:

“Son, be poor and deprived while people become rich and wealthy from treachery and betrayal. Live without fame and position and let people reach high positions by insistence and struggle. Bear with pain, exhaustion, and deprivation and let people reach their goals and hopes by bragging and solicitation. Refrain from association with the prominent to whom people compete to be close to. Adopt the garment of piety and morals until your hairs turn gray, but never let gloomy shame tarnish you. Then thank your Lord and submit to Him with an innocent heart and an optimistic conscience.”

Honesty is man’s capital in life. People trust and rely on thehonest which allows him (the honest) to lead a clean and honorable life. When we rely on the honest, we observe honesty in every sector of life and may reach many conclusions and have many learning experiences; hence advancing in life feeling secure and happy.

Religion Condemns Treason

“Be not unfaithful to Allah and the apostle, nor be unfaithful to your trusts while you know.” (8:27)

“Surely Allah commands you to Allah, the Almighty, referred to the laws which He legislated for His creatures as“The Trust”. He, Glorybe to Him, also warned against treachery in many instances in the Holy Qur’an: make over trusts to their owners.” (4:58 )

The Commander of the Faithful, Imam ‘Ali (a.s .) said:“The worst from of treachery is betraying the intimate and faithful (friend), and breach of promises.” 1

He is also quoted as saying:“The worst of people is he who believes not in trust and refrains not from treachery.” 2

And:“Avoid treason for it is the worst of sins; surely the treacherous will be tortured in the fire for their treason.” 3

Imam as-Sadiq (a.s .) advised one of his a companions:

“Never say farewell to us without advising us of two traits: Adhere to uttering the truth, and convey trusts to both the righteous and sinful for they (the two traits) are the key to sustenance.” 4

Islam calls all people to a stable and happy life under the rule of performing assigned duties according to its exalted commands. It also stressed the importance of conveying trusts.

Imam as-Sadiq (a.s .) said:

“Adhere to conveyance of trusts. For, by HimWho sent Muhammad (S) as a righteous Prophet, even if the one who killed my Father entrusted me with the sword he used kill him. I would give it back to him.” 5

There is no consideration in Islam for the treacherous. Under certaincircumstances it even legislates the amputation of the hand of he who embezzles the property of Muslims. Islam severely implements the penal law against the treacherousso as to protect the social rights and preserve public safety. This procedure places the sense of responsibility in society, and helps bring about a righteous community.

Every wrong donehas its bad consequences in this world and the hereafter, in addition to being a factor in the downfall of humanity.

The Messenger of Allah (S) said:

“He who does evil shall be punished for it in this world.” 6

According to Dr. Rose Keen:

“Every error I made in my life will stand in my way and deprive me ofhappiness, it will distract my understanding and realization. The opposite is also true; every attempt, truth, or righteous act accompanies and motivates me to reach all goals and hopes.”

The MechanicalTheory which says that:

“Action and reaction are equal” applies to behavioral psychology too. Good and bad actions have equal opposite affects on individuals and those who surround or imitate them.

Imam ‘Ali (a.s .) said:

“Conveyance of trusts is the title of the true believers.” 7

Faith is the spirit’s defensive weapon. It is one of the more importantfactors which can reach deep to the soul, it organizes man’s deeds and conduct with precise order. Faith also re-establishes the sense of individual and social responsibility, warns man against the influence of social corruption, and guides society to righteousness and truth.

Faith prevents corruption and treachery. It holds parents responsible for paving the way for their children to live happy lives by carefully examining their children’s early habits, implementing faith in theirhearts and supporting praiseworthy traits in them.

ImamZain al-Abideen (a.s .) said:

“You are responsible for him to whom you are granted guardianship; his manners, guidance to his Lord, Glorybe to Him, and helping him to obey (his Lord).”

Dr.Raymund Peach said:

“It is not sufficient to generally adhere to the rules of religion. For only constant and precise attention to every detail regarding the children’s behavioral conduct and emotions in relation to religion can be enough to implement faith in their hearts. Implement the fundamentals of religion and its exalted holdings in their pure and kind hearts which are ready to receive youradvise and admonition. Do that without the added restriction to religion. This will protect their faith and confidence and guard them from straying and destruction.”

Imam ‘Ali (a.s .) said:

“Surely in men of reason there is a need for moral as much as crops need rain.” 8

Dr. C.Robbin said:

“Some may dispute the fact that manners like walking and talking are natural actions. In other words, they are among the initialmatters which we learn in life.

“It should be known that reason does not help man to learn good manners; rather, manners rule man before he realizes the importance of them, prior to any signs of mental maturity. In other words, manners are not dependant on reason but are advantageous to them.I therefore, feel bad when I hear a mother saying about her son’s behavior: ‘He will grow to learn the right thing.’

If children do not get used to good manners (behavior) at a youngage they will be unable to acquire them by reason and understanding. Yes, we can say that manners are the practicalreason which guides us and opens the gates to the shortest way to righteousness. This practical reason protects us from idleness in the same way that it opposes extravagant lusts andcravings, reason guards us against enmity, hatred and resentment. In other words, it makes us sociable and warns us against ignoring others and selfishness.

“Well-mannered individuals are never lonely; they can represent societies and help awaken people to the truth.” 9

Despite all attemptsbeing made to legislate strict laws to reduce crimes of treachery and the educational programs to make people aware of their consequences, and despite the many judicial and administrative establishments that fight treachery, treacherous acts are constantly increasing in number and are becoming a horrifying fact.

Notes

1.Ghurar al-Hikam p. 50.

2.Ghurar al-Hikam p. 446

3.Ghurar al-Hikam p. 150

4.Safinah al-Bihar v.1, p. 41

5.Amali as-Saduq p. 149.

6.Nahj a1-Fasahah.

7.Ghurar al-Hikam p. 453.

8.Ghurar al-Hikam p. 224

9. ChiMadanam

Miserliness

Cooperation and Assistance

Naturally every man has special talents and we need the cooperation of others in order to perfect and make our talents productive. Cooperation is an effective element in the process,advancement and success of both the individual and his society.

Allah created man as a social being;therefore it is in man’s nature to participate with the children of his kind in the task of solving the problems of life.

Both natural events and desire create a number of problemsfor man; hence subjecting him to various types of difficulties where he is in constant need of help from others. In light of this natural law, people’s duties are not limited to any one individual butare spread to different social classes. Aiding an individual, no matter how small and minor the task may be it is very advantageous to the development of society and fulfills one of its needs.

Since social statesare manifested in members of the society from many points, we may compare the social structure to the human body.For just as the human body consists of various members that are naturally related to each other and on which the survival of man relies, society also consists of different parts which make it whole.

Thus, each member of a society should know his vital basic duties and perform them to the best of his ability so that society can flourish. The members should explore all their material and spiritual talents, and exploit them for the sake of his society, all the time remembering to keep in the framework of abilities and social rule.

Nevertheless, collective tranquility and security for the society, and overcoming difficultiescan be achieved only if a sense of cooperation prevails over people’s relations with each other. Life is sweeter, actions are fruitful, and the wagon of society advances on the path of excellence, only with cooperation.

Miserliness Annihilates Affections

There are certainfeelings which originate deep in the hearts of men, the fruits of these feelings being invaluable; these are the roots of man’s cooperation. Thesefeelings which are manifested in helping needy individuals, are among the special spiritual and excellent traits of man. These are feelings that make man react when he sees pain or suffering that the another experiences; inspiring him to offer all types of sacrifices and overlooking personal wants for the sake of reducing the pain of others. Man does this without expecting any reward.

Dr. Carl said:

“Advancement in any field needs a certain degree of sacrifice, greatness, and sincerely; purity of the soul can be achieved only by sacrificing material gains and fame for the sake of one’s country or a greater goal.

“Self-sacrifice is the habit of those who understand the beauty of righteousness and truly believe in Allah. These are the people who sacrifice their souls in order to implement justice,love and harmony all over the world.

“Reason alone does not lead man to perfection. Love and affection are also important factors in this field. This is true because the soul excels through feelings more than it does through reason and reflection.

“Everyone can advance on this path passing the clouds into peak of light and reach the truth.”

There is a characteristic that may destroy the roots of affection, which can conceal itself in man’s subconscious. It known as miserliness. Miserliness paves the way for man’s nature to abandon his good morals.

Miserliness is an evil characteristic that is always associated with the breach of all moral and spiritual commitments. It subjects man to humiliation and public resentment, in addition to leading the miser to narrow mindedness.

As a result of miserliness and selfishness, the misers’ minds are centered around materialism and wealth. Theyare, therefore, deprived of the freedom of thought and subsequently from the facts of life and spiritual and moral values. The miser ignores the fact that wealth is a method of securing material need in life. After securing thebasic necessities of life in comfort, harmony or in treating anxieties and psychological pains, there is not a role for wealth.

Fear of imaginative poverty is an illness that affects the minds of the miser. For thisreason a miser person can never rid himself of worry and depression. Despite the wealth a miser may have, heis deprived of comfort and ease.

According to a British scholar:

“Some people hope for wealth as if there is nothing else worth hoping for.There are even some people who deprive themselves of knowledge and sleep because their primary goal is to acquire wealth. Individuals like this deprive themselves of the truth for they imagine wealth to be a goal and not a means.

“Wealth is like a bridge that rescues us from destruction. How wrong are those who spend their live strengthening the bridge itself while ignoring itspurpose. We should not give ourselves up for the sake ofmoney, instead we should give up money for our sake... Many people spend their whole lives searching for money and by the time they find it they need another life to spend it...but the days they long for shall never come.

There seems to be direct relationship between wealth and miserliness. Most wealthy people are misers. A survey would reveal thathelping the poor is usually done by the middle-class and not the rich .

The miser rich, who fall victim to the frustration and anger of the poor, are the subject of some social corruption. Thepressure which is put on the poor, and the subsequent psychological complication which befall them are factors in spreading corruption and disarray. No one denies the devastatingrole which this problem has in causing crimes and dissention.

There are many wealthy people who abandon the borders of humanityas a result of their intense inclination towards acquiring wealth to the point that they add to their oppression the act of depriving the poor of their rights. Such oppressors have certainly lost the human light in them. On the other hand, we have generosity, a factor of human integrity. It is a manifestation of the originality of human feelings and a sign of stable thinking. Generosity is also the best trait among all authentic characteristics.

Generosity enjoys a very high place among all traits.Hatim Tai’s name still shines throughout the centuries because of his well-known generosity.

It is evident that generosity can only be praiseworthy, if nearness to Allahis sought in reducing the suffering of the poor as its only aim. Bragging and fame should not play a role in generosity.

A Glance at Leaders’ Views on Miserliness

Islam has stressed all aspects of human society. It recommends sacrifices and abundant givingso as to strengthen the ties of love and mercy between the rich and poor. Islam also greatly resents miserliness and immorality.

Islam deepens the roots of love in the Islamic society by implementing human feelings and the sense of cooperation between Muslims. It prohibits the rich Muslims from being indifferent to the condition of thepoor, it also prohibits stinginess which prevents Muslims from paying the dues which Islam levied on them for the deprived Muslims.

The Messenger of Allah (S) said:

“Islam does not resent a thing more than miserliness.” 1

Miserliness is an eviltrait which deprives the individual of happiness and tranquility and leaves him in pain. The Messenger of Allah (S) also said:

“The least harmonious among people are the misers.” 2

A Western scholaris known to have said:

“He who lacks love and seeks it (even subconsciously) always blames himself and is never satisfied with it: for this reason most of us lust the lives of others and are greatly envious of them. This feeling is not limited to the poor toward the rich: envy effects all of us for there is an element in everyone’s life that they feel weak in, for instance, a man who has a wife, children, and a good position feels greedy over those who are deprived of such things.

Individuals like this consider their clothes, for example, as evidence of their superiority, or a man may see another man who is dressed better and thinks that the well dressed man is happier then he for if he wasn’t happier he would not have better clothes...” 3

The Messenger of Allah (S) besought Allah to have mercy on those who do not love wealth for its self but spend their surplus (wealth) on the deprived. He said:

“May Allah have mercy on he who restrains the unnecessary word and who spends the surplus of hisbelongings. ” 4

The Prophet (S) also said:

“Avoid stinginess for stinginess caused those who proceeded you to perish and lead them to shed their blood and violate their sanctities.” 5

Imam ‘Ali (a.s .) said:

“I am amazed at the miserable misers, for they cause the poverty from which they run to come faster, and miss the wealth which they sought. In this life they live the life of the poor and will be judged in the hereafter the judgment of the rich.” 6

A British scholar stated:

“Some people appear rich but are actually poor. They possess money but cannot even spend it on themselves. Their wealth becomes like a chain of gold tied around their neck from which they gain nothing save pain and torture. Here money becomes an affliction and wealth a disaster.” 7 .

Even the children of the misers complain about their fathers. This fact is clarified by Imam ‘Ali (a.s .) who said:“A man’s generosity makes his foes love him, and his miserliness makes his children hate him.” 8

He also said:

“Greed and stinginess arc built on doubt and lack of confidence” 9

Dr. Farmeris known to have said:

“The traits generosity and self-confidence which arise from harmony and trusting yourself and others, when found together in an individual, perfect social manners and allow perfect enjoyment of social life. The opposite is also true for when these traits are lacking, integrity of social manners is impossible, hence, an individual is unable to enjoy a social life.” 10

Imam Musa al-Kadhim (a.s .) explains the value of generosity by saving:

“The generous and the well-mannered are always under the protection of Allah. Allah does not abandon them but leads them to Paradise. Allah, Glory be to Him, did not send a prophet or a successor save a generous one; nor was there a righteous man who was not generous. Up to the day that he died, my Father commanded me to be generous.” 11

Once when Imam ‘Ali (a.s .) was fighting in a battle, the man that he was fighting asked him for his sword. Imam ‘Ali (a.s .) handed his sword to him which amazed the man. Imam All (a.s .) then stated that the miser are in urgent need of ideological guidance and if they are deprived of that guidance will remain in the trap of materialism, deprivation and misery.

Notes

1.Nahj al-Fasahah p. 549

2.Nahj al-Fasahah p.81

3.Ravankavi

4.Nahj al-Fasahah p.81

5.Nahj al-Fasahah p.8

6.Ghurar al-Hikam p. 497

7. DarAghushe Khush Bakhti

8.Ghurar al-Hikam , p. 368

9.Ghurar al-Hikam p. 488

10.Raz Khushbakhti .

11.Furu al-Kafi v.4, p. 38