In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Abdullah Ibn Mas’ud, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: [اللهم كما حَسَّنْت خَلْقِي فَحَسِّنْ خُلُقِي – O Allah! Just as You made my external form beautiful, make my character beautiful as well]. [1]

Imran Bin Muslim, may Allah have mercy upon him, narrated that Umar ibn Al-Khattab, may Allah be pleased with him, said: “Acquire knowledge and teach it to the people, learn to show respect and tranquility towards it, be humble to those who impart knowledge to you, and be humble to those whom you impart knowledge, and do not be arrogant scholars, for your knowledge will not be established through your ignorance (or ignorant behaviour)”. [2]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymin, may Allah have mercy upon him, discussed the six distinct signs of beneficial knowledge, and then stated that one of these signs is the increase in humility as knowledge grows, and that one should not become arrogant. The Imam then added that if there is a conflict between humbling oneself to the truth and humbling oneself to people, precedence is given to humbling oneself to the truth. For instance, if there is a person who reviles the truth and rejoices due to his enmity towards those who follow it, in this case, one should not humble themselves in the presence of this person. Instead, one should remain humble to the truth and engage in debate with this person. Even if they belittle or speak against you, do not be concerned about what they say because the truth must be upheld. [3]

A measure of genuine fear of Allah connected to establishing justice

The bitter truth uttered by a brave person!

[1] https://salaficentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Admonitions-of-The-Scholars-Regarding-Good-Manners.pdf

[2] Al-Mad’khal Ilaa Sunan al-Kubraa 2/153

[3] Sharh Hilyati Taalibil Ilm pages 253-254