A culture is a set of habits, rules and regulations, which a group of people follows as part of their lives.
Islamic culture is how we should behave. It is the way Muslims are taught to live and is based on the two sources of Noble Qur'an and Hadith. A Muslim should understand and practice this knowledge, since when these two sources are combined; we have the way and means to lead a life, which will lead to perfection and contentment.
There are countless examples of what we should do and how we should act, but the essence of all these actions is having good Akhlaq.
To have good Akhlaq (Morality, Moral Values), you have to follow a very simple rule. Prophet Isa (as), Prophet Muhammad (saw) and Imam Ali (as) have all emphasized one message and that is:Treat others the way you would like them to treat you.
This just means to have consideration, whether it is family, other relatives, or friends.
Whenever you meet others you are carrying the flag of Islam. This means people will look at you and say, "This is how Muslims behave".
Whenever you do an action, ask yourself, "Would Prophet Muhammad (saw) and Imam Ali (as)do that?" Then think about your answer before you perform the action.
Prophet Muhammad (saw)was once asked why he came to the world, what was his purpose? He replied, "I have been sent to complete the nobility of your character."
This means that the main purpose of Prophet Muhammad (saw) was to improve and perfect the Islamic Culture, the noble character of a person and thus the community.
It is very important that we should have a good Islamic Culture at home, since this is where the foundation is set for growing children. We should make sure that we all recite Salaat on time. If possible we should pray Salaat-e-Jamaat (Congregational Prayer) at home, with the father leading and the children following. The mother should teach the girls the importance of wearing Hijaband the parents should explain about music and dance, and all the other habits, which Islam discourages.
Some parents tell their children not to fast during examinations. This makes the children feel that fasting can be missed for such reasons and reduces its importance. How can you blame the children, when it is the parents who encourage them? The point that people do not realize is that if you obey Allah (SWT), He will help you. Allah (SWT) has said that for every 1 step you take towards Him, He will take 10 steps towards you. So make a Niyyat (intension) and fast. Do not look at fasting as if it is going to harm you, but think that it will help your concentration, it will help you to study, and you soon see how well you can actually do.
We must make Islamic Culture part of our day-to-day lives, not just something we put on for the mosque, or for Madressa. Only then will we benefit both in this life, and the next.
Once Imam Ali (as) was asked, who is a believer? He answered as to what the characteristics of a believer should include,
1.The believer is one with whom peoples' life, wealth and dignity are safe.
2.When powerful, he forgives easily. He is generous in appropriate ways.
3.His behavior is gentle. His actions and walk reflect modesty.
4.People enjoy his affection and calmness. He is ready to bear pain in order to comfort others.
5.In friendship he is sincere. He honors his promises.
6.He helps the oppressed and is concerned about the deprived. He does not abandon those in distress; he tries to relieve their burdens.
7.He respects the rights of those who are absent. He accepts the apologies of those at fault.
8.He assists those who have assisted him.
9.He does not divulge (tell) peoples' secrets. He does not inquire into secret affairs, which do not concern him.
10.He sets a good example for those who succeed him.
11.His good deeds are not performed for the sake of being boastful.
12.He does not fall into the same difficulty twice.
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