Essay On Personality In Islam

Personality In The Light Of Islam

Definition

Personality is generally defined as enduring patterns of perceiving, relating to, and thinking about the environment and oneself. We generally react and deal with the world and those around us in a consistant and unique manner. As distinct as each of us is in our physical features, we are equally unique in our personalities.

‘People’s personalities differ’ (Sahih Bukhari) 1

‘Classification of people into neat and clear personality types is not easy. This is because each individual exhibits characteristics of more than one personality type depending on the situation. For example Abu-Bakr (RA) was known as a soft person whereas Omar (RA) was known as the tough person. When the prophet passed away, Abu-Bakr (RA) was firm while Omar (RA) temporarily overwhelmed. It was the soft-spoken Abu-Bakr (RA) who was determined to wage war against the apostates

So, for a good Islamic life, Allah wants a balance between all kinds of rights.’

‘That is why the extremist advancement in spiritual life has been declared as rahbaniyya (self-denial). It is prohibited in Islam. You cannot become a spiritual personality, neglecting the worldly needs. In the same way you also cannot become wholly a secular person, neglecting the spiritual needs. This is the beautiful balance which Almighty Allah wants us to create, maintain, protect and promote in our personal lives.’3

To develop the personality from within, the Qur’an and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) emphasise people to be truly righteous, to have good intentions, to be truthful, to be polite, to be kind, to be thankful, to be honest, etc. Developing all these qualities will make a person best in character. Thus once Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, “The best of people are those with the most excellent character.”