Shaamah (Distinctive Feature That Accentuates Beauty)
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Creator: Muhammad Al-`Abdah
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Identifier: http://www.islaam.com/Article.aspx?id=531
Language: en
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Subject: dawah
Title: Shaamah (Distinctive Feature That Accentuates Beauty)
Created on: Mon Jan 14 12:05:35 -0500 2008
Updated on: Mon Jan 14 12:05:35 -0500 2008
Version: 1
Abstract: ... ast. This expression denotes the importance in Da`wah of impressions portrayed externally in one's appearance, manners, and speech. An example is of a Caller to Islam I knew who always made a good impression and who was amply qualified in disciplines beneficial in this life and the hereafter, coupled with many practical skills. The result was of many people requesting his help; even those who opposed him in thought and methodology. Consequently, this had a beneficial and far-reaching effect amongst his community, and clearly this brother was nothing short of a shaamah. The Messenger of Allah elucidated this concept of shaamah in the hadeeth narrated by Abu al-Dardaa' and related by Abu Dawud when he said, "You are about to reach your brethren from travel, so adjust your attire and amend your vehicles until you become akin to the shaamah amongst the people by your distinctiveness." The intention of his teaching was to engender in each Muslim not only fine character but also its external realization - demonstrated in good taste in appearance, since an unappealing image is a cause for aversion. Yet again this reinforces the Prophetic recommendation for Muslims to reform their character in all aspects internal and external. The consequence of this equitable character is an understanding of the necessity of an appropriate appearance when giving Da`wah. Too often we find Muslims attired in a fashion that fosters derision or suspicion. Therefore, it is when the banner of Jihad is erected that one must don military attire, and similarly, when at work to wear what is practical, and crucially, when giving Da`wah to wear fine garments devoid of excess and pride. Is it an idealistic notion for the character of the Muslim to be refined and elegant? Nay, it is not an imaginary picture, and although it is not achi... [Full Article...]
