Exploring the profound guidance of Luqman the Wise—his teachings on monotheism, humility, gratitude, and patience that remain relevant across ages and cultures
By Kousar Ahmed Rather
Luqman (also known as Luqman the Wise or Luqman al-Hakim) was a wise and righteous man mentioned in the Quran. He is not considered a prophet, but God gave him the gift of wisdom. The 31st chapter of the Quran is named after him, “Surah Luqman”, which recounts his profound advice to his son. The instructions of Luqman to his son, often referred to as “Luqman’s Instructions”, are a collection of moral, spiritual, and ethical teachings found in the Quran. These teachings, from a wise man named Luqman to his son, are not just for a specific individual but serve as a guide for all humanity. They emphasise the importance of monotheism, good character, and responsible conduct in life. The instructions are revered for their simplicity, profound wisdom, and timeless relevance.
The most fundamental instruction Luqman gives his son is the prohibition of shirk, or associating partners with God. He warns his son that this is the greatest of all injustices. This teaching underscores the core principle of Islam: the absolute oneness of God. Luqman’s emphasis on this point highlights its importance as the foundation of all righteous action and belief. He explains that any form of worship or obedience directed towards anything or anyone other than God is a grave error.
Luqman instructs his son to be grateful to God and to his parents. He explains that gratitude is a cornerstone of faith. Gratitude to God for His countless blessings and to parents for their sacrifices is a moral obligation. This theme reinforces the interconnectedness of one’s relationship with God and one’s duty to fellow human beings, particularly one’s family.
Luqman’s instructions are rich with guidance on how to conduct oneself in society. He advises his son to be humble and to avoid arrogance. He tells him to walk with a moderate gait and to lower his voice, as a loud voice is likened to the braying of a donkey. These instructions are not just about etiquette; they are about cultivating a character that is modest, considerate, and respectful of others. They teach that true dignity comes from humility, not from a sense of superiority.
The instructions also emphasise the importance of patience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Luqman advises his son to endure whatever befalls him with patience. This teaching prepares the individual for life’s inevitable challenges, teaching them to remain steadfast in their faith and good deeds, regardless of the circumstances. It encourages a resilient spirit that does not waver in the pursuit of righteousness.
A significant part of the instructions is the reminder of God’s all-encompassing knowledge and the concept of accountability. Luqman tells his son that God is aware of everything, no matter how small or hidden. He uses the analogy of a mustard seed hidden in a rock to illustrate that God will bring forth even the most minute action for judgment. This instils a deep sense of a divine consciousness, encouraging a life lived with awareness and responsibility.
The instructions of Luqman to his son are as relevant today as they were centuries ago. They provide a universal blueprint for a life of purpose and virtue. In a world often plagued by arrogance, materialism, and a lack of moral direction, Luqman’s words offer a powerful antidote. They remind us that true success is not measured by wealth or status but by the quality of our character and our relationship with our Creator.
The father-son dynamic in these instructions makes them particularly poignant. They represent a father’s deep love and concern for his son’s well-being, both in this life and the next. This relationship serves as a model for intergenerational wisdom transfer, emphasising the role of parents as primary educators of faith and morality.
Luqman’s instructions to his son are more than just a list of dos and don’ts; they are a comprehensive guide to spiritual, moral, and social well-being. They teach us to build our lives on the foundation of monotheism, to cultivate a character of humility and gratitude, to persevere through trials, and to live with a constant awareness of God’s presence. These teachings are a timeless legacy of wisdom, offering guidance to anyone seeking a meaningful and righteous path in life.
The writer is a teacher at Higher Secondary School, Pattan
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