MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, TANGERANG – The Secretary of Muhammadiyah Muhammad Izzul Muslimin emphasized the crucial role of Islamic ethics in the progress and development of the Muslim world. Izzul highlighted the need for Muslims to prioritize moral character.
Referencing the hadith “Al Islamu ya’lu wa laa yu’la alaih” (Islam is always superior and should never be surpassed), Izzul explained that the decline of the Muslim world is often attributed to the neglect of Islamic ethics.
Citing an Islamic scholar Muhammad Abduh, Izzul noted that the advancements of European civilization in fields like science and technology were due, in part, to a strong moral compass.
“Sheikh Muhammad Abduh observed that European civilization was far more advanced than the Islamic world at that time. This was not just in terms of cleanliness and punctuality but also in terms of knowledge. And yet, all these aspects are rooted in Islamic teachings,” said Izzul at the gathering of the Muhammadiyah Branch of Serpong Utara on November 3.
Izzul argued that a lack of moral character is at the root of many of the problems facing the Muslim world today. “No matter how intelligent or capable a person is, if their character is flawed, they will be of no use to society and may even cause harm,” he said.
Conversely, Izzul emphasized that good character not only benefits the individual but also has a positive impact on society as a whole.
“A person with good morals will have positive effects on their family, community, and even the environment,” he said.
The Secretary also highlighted the importance of Islamic teachings on ethics, quoting a hadith that states, “The best of you are those who have the best character.” He explained that a person’s character is a reflection of their faith.
To gauge the moral character of an individual, Izzul suggested looking at their interactions with others, such as their treatment of neighbors, guests, and their choice of words.
