Definition of Ihsan, Compassion and Empathy
As narrated by Abu Hurairah the Prophet ﷺ defined Ihsan as,
" أَنْ تَعْبُدَ اللَّهَ كَأَنَّكَ تَرَاهُ، فَإِنْ لَمْ تَكُنْ تَرَاهُ فَإِنَّهُ يَرَاكَ "
“It is to worship God as though you are seeing Him, for even if you cannot see Him, you know that He sees you.”
Ihsan therefore means that we are in a constant state of awareness of our Creator. What this has in relation with compassion and empathy - two qualities that possess being understanding of others and initiating the desire to offer help to them - is that we hasten at every given opportunity to do good for the sake of Allah S.W.T. These three principles hold great value and are in fact the core in becoming a true practising Muslim.
Rasulullah The Role Model For All Mankind
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is an important figure in Islam. His actions, his words and way of living act as a reference point for us Muslims. This is due to the fact that his very nature and being exemplifies complete beauty in character rooted in compassion and mercy. Honouring others before himself, having a forgiving heart and advocating for kindness at all times are just some of the many qualities that he showcases.
This is shown in the Prophet’s interaction with his companion & devoted khadim (servant), Anas ibn Malik:
" خَدَمْتُ النَّبِيَّ صلى الله عليه وسلم عَشْرَ سِنِينَ فَمَا قَالَ لِي أُفٍّ قَطُّ وَمَا قَالَ لِشَيْءٍ صَنَعْتُهُ لِمَ صَنَعْتَهُ وَلاَ لِشَيْءٍ تَرَكْتُهُ لِمَ تَرَكْتَهُ وَكَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم مِنْ أَحْسَنِ النَّاسِ خُلُقًا "
"I served the Prophet for ten years. He never said Uff and never blamed me by saying: 'Why did you do so' or 'why did you not do so?' And the Messenger Of Allah had the best character among all of the people.” (Jami’ At-Tirmidhi)
Regardless of social standing, there was never a time where Prophet Muhammad ﷺ would treat others with prejudice or arrogance. Instead we find that time and time again, he interacts with patience and love no matter the circumstance.
The Basis of Islamic Teaching
In addition to how compassion and empathy build the principles of Islam is how in order to gain the mercy of Allah S.W.T and closeness to Him, it requires us to embody a selfless and understanding character (Hamza Yusuf, 2012). The compulsory charity in Islam when income conditions are met or Zakat as well as the encouraged acts of charity - Sadaqah - are tangible examples of generosity and kindness aimed to alleviate the sufferings of others.
On top of that, we are highly encouraged to remember at all times that Allah is with us. In doing so we are always reminded to be in a state of sincere spiritual peace. Understanding that our creator is All Seeing (Al-Basir), wherever we are and whatever we are doing, we should strive to seek at every vacant moment to obtain His mercy through our good deeds and excellent character. Regardless of whether others acknowledge or applaud our good efforts, we have to understand that the one we truly seek our approval from is none other than Allah S.W.T.
Conclusion
The fabric of Islamic teaching is therefore closely linked to the concept of compassion, empathy and Ihsan. Demonstrated perfectly by our beloved Prophet ﷺ, we see how he is a testament on how we are able to practise these noble qualities in our life. Ultimately, the cultivation of these qualities is not merely about fulfilling religious obligations but about becoming a better human being and drawing closer to God. May Allah give us the wisdom, patience and strength to become better Muslims that can help the ummah.
References: Purification of the Heart, Hamzah Yusuf, 2012