Expressing Empathy in Islam: The Significance of Acts of Charity, Kindness, and Forgiveness
Empathy is a powerful human quality that allows us to connect with others, understand their experiences, and share in their joys and sorrows. It is an essential part of building strong relationships and creating a more compassionate and just society. In Islam, empathy is not just a virtue but a fundamental aspect of the faith, and it is expressed through acts of charity, kindness, and forgiveness.
The Quran contains numerous passages that emphasize the importance of empathy and compassion in our daily lives. One of the most well-known verses is Surah Al-Hujurat, verse 10, which states:
إِنَّمَا ٱلْمُؤْمِنُونَ إِخْوَةٌۭ فَأَصْلِحُوا۟ بَيْنَ أَخَوَيْكُمْ ۚ وَٱتَّقُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُرْحَمُونَ
“The believers are but one brotherhood, so make peace between your brothers. And be mindful of Allah so you may be shown mercy”
This verse highlights the importance of brotherhood among believers and encourages us to work towards peace and reconciliation in our relationships. It reminds us that we are all part of a larger human family and that we have a responsibility to care for and support each other.
Another verse that emphasizes the importance of empathy is Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 83, which states:
وَإِذْ أَخَذْنَا مِيثَـٰقَ بَنِىٓ إِسْرَٰٓءِيلَ لَا تَعْبُدُونَ إِلَّا ٱللَّهَ وَبِٱلْوَٰلِدَيْنِ إِحْسَانًۭا وَذِى ٱلْقُرْبَىٰ وَٱلْيَتَـٰمَىٰ وَٱلْمَسَـٰكِينِ وَقُولُوا۟ لِلنَّاسِ حُسْنًۭا وَأَقِيمُوا۟ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ وَءَاتُوا۟ ٱلزَّكَوٰةَ ثُمَّ تَوَلَّيْتُمْ إِلَّا قَلِيلًۭا مِّنكُمْ وَأَنتُم مُّعْرِضُونَ
“And ˹remember˺ when We took a covenant from the children of Israel ˹stating˺, “Worship none but Allah; be kind to parents, relatives, orphans and the needy; speak kindly to people; establish prayer; and pay alms-tax.” But you ˹Israelites˺ turned away — except for a few of you — and were indifferent.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of respecting and valuing human life, and it encourages us to work towards creating a society that is based on mutual respect and understanding. It highlights the importance of empathy and compassion in our relationships and encourages us to strive towards a world that is free from violence and conflict.
There are many instances in the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) where he displayed empathy towards others. One such instance is the story of the old woman who used to throw trash on the Prophet every time he passed by her house.
Despite her behavior, the Prophet did not get angry or retaliate. Instead, he showed her kindness and empathy by continuing to greet her every day and asking about her well-being when she did not throw trash at him.
One day, when the Prophet did not see the old woman throwing trash at him, he went to her house to check on her. He found out that she was sick and needed help. He immediately offered to help her with her chores and even went to the market to buy some food for her.
The old woman was surprised and touched by the Prophet’s kindness, and she embraced Islam as a result.
In Islam, empathy is not just an abstract concept but is expressed through acts of charity and kindness. When we give to those in need, we show that we understand their struggles and are committed to helping them overcome their challenges. Through our generosity and kindness, we create a sense of belonging and connection, and we foster a culture of caring and compassion.
Forgiveness is also a powerful expression of empathy in Islam. When we forgive others who have wronged us, we show that we understand their humanity and their struggles, and that we are committed to healing and reconciliation. Through forgiveness, we create a space for healing and growth, and we demonstrate our commitment to creating a world that is based on compassion and understanding.
In conclusion, empathy is a crucial aspect of building strong relationships and creating a more compassionate and just society. In Islam, empathy is valued and celebrated as a fundamental aspect of the faith, and it is expressed through acts of charity, kindness, and forgiveness. Through these actions, we create a space for love and compassion to thrive, and we build a world that is based on justice, peace, and harmony.