CHARACTERISTICS OF THE IGNORANT COMMUNITY IN THE HOLY QUR'AN

Fifth Characteristic

Within the other characteristics of both ancient and modern forms of Jahiliyyah is the modification in the values and criteria of preference among people. The actual divine criteria have been distorted into illusionary devilish ones. In the conception of the Holy Qur'an, piety is the criterion: "O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other (not that ye may despise (each other). Verily the most honored of you in the sight of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And Allah has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things). 49/13"

"Say: In the bounty of Allah and in His Mercy—in that let them rejoice; that is better than the (wealth) they hoard. 10/58"

In the conception of Jahillyyah, the criterion of superiority is fortunes, prestige and sons. Describing such criterion, the Holy Qur'an says, "The mutual rivalry for piling up the good things of this world diverts you from the more serious things, until ye visit the graves. 102/1-2" "They said: We have more in wealth and in sons, and we cannot be punished. 34/35"

This matter is too obvious to be discussed; therefore, it is sufficient to cite the following holy verses:

"Fair in the eyes of men is the love of things they covet: Women and sons; Heaped-up hoards of gold and silver; horses branded for blood and excellence; and wealth of cattle and well-tilled land. Such are the possessions of this world's life; but in nearness to Allah is the best of the goals to return to. Say: Shall I give you glad tidings of things far better than those? For the righteous are Gardens in nearness to their Lord, with rivers flowing beneath; therein is their eternal home; with companions pure and holy; and the good pleasure of Allah. For in Allah's sight are all His servants. 3/14-15"

"It is not your wealth nor your sons, that will bring you nearer to Us in degree: but only those who believe and work righteousness. These are the ones for whom there is a multiplied reward for their deeds, while secure they reside in the dwellings on high. 34/37"