In a world where those who raise their voices are often considered strong and those who show kindness are considered weak, Islam teaches us something different.
Kindness is a form of strength.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that Allah loves kindness in all things. This is not simply about being polite. It means consciously choosing not to hurt others when we could, controlling our anger, using respectful words, and behaving with dignity even when facing someone who does not share our views.
Kindness begins with small things: greeting others, smiling, listening, helping an elderly person, respecting our neighbours, being patient with our families, and not humiliating someone who has made a mistake.
The Qur’an reminds us:
“Tell My servants to say that which is best.”
(Qur’an, 17:53)
This teaching is particularly important today. A word can build a relationship, but it can also destroy one. This applies within the family, in the workplace, in society, and especially on social media, where people often write in a few seconds what they would not have the courage to say while looking someone in the eyes.
Being kind does not mean giving up the truth or accepting injustice. We can be firm without being offensive. We can defend what is right without losing respect for others.
For a Muslim, moreover, kindness is not reserved only for other Muslims. Respect for human dignity, good conduct towards neighbours, helping those in difficulty, and seeking peaceful coexistence are all part of the believer’s responsibility within society.
In our European cities, people of different religions, cultures, and backgrounds live side by side. Sometimes we think that building peace requires only major conferences and important agreements.
They are important. But peace begins much earlier.
It begins with the way we speak to another person.
It begins with the way we treat our neighbour.
It begins with the ability to respond to an offence without turning it into hatred.
Kindness is not weakness. It is having the strength to choose what is good even when confrontation would be easier.
European Muslims League – EML
Kindness in Islam Is Not Weakness
