Gus Miftah, a preacher, has garnered public attention after insulting a tea seller, Buya Yahya reminding everyone about ethics. Gus Miftah’s action of insulting a tea seller named Sunhaji has sparked public outrage. The incident went viral on social media, showing Miftah Maulana Habiburrahman, also known as Gus Miftah, leading a study session in Magelang and making inappropriate remarks towards the tea seller. Consequently, netizens exposed Gus Miftah’s past actions, including derogatory comments towards a senior artist, Yati Pesek. Following the backlash, Gus Miftah, who is also the head of Ora Aji Pondok Pesantren, resigned from his post as the President’s Special Envoy. In light of this incident, Buya Yahya warns against developing a habit of looking down on others.
Title: Akhlak: The Character and Etiquette of the Prophet, Peace Be Upon Him, and the Hadith "Nabi Saja Tidak Pernah…"
The term Akhlak in Islam refers to the moral character and conduct of an individual. It is derived from the Arabic root verb k-h-l-q, which means ‘to deem worthy’ or ‘to claim’. In the context of Islam, Akhlak encompasses the ethical and moral qualities that Allah has deemed worthy of being cultivated by humans. It includes virtues such as honesty, kindness, patience, humility, and righteousness, among others.
The Prophet’s Character, Peace Be Upon Him
The Prophet Muhammad, Peace Be Upon Him (PBUH), is renowned for his exceptional character and ethical conduct. His perfect Akhlak is a Beacon of guidance for Muslims worldwide. The Quran emphasizes the importance of emulating the Prophet’s character in several verses, such as:
- "Indeed in the Messenger of Allah, you have a good example to follow…" (Quran 33:21)
- "O you who have believed, why do you say what you do not do?" (Quran 61:2)
The Prophet, PBUH, sauntered an example of perfect humility, despite being the leader of the Muslim community. He was known to mend his clothes, repair his shoes, and visit his companions’ homes, fostering a sense of equality and brotherhood. He was also synonyms with kindsness and compassion, even towards his enemies. The hadith literature is replete with narrations that highlight his compassion towards animals and the weak.
The Hadith "Nabi Saja Tidak Pernah…"
The phrase "Nabi Saja Tidak Pernah…" (The Prophet Never …)" is often used in Islamic teaching and lectures to emphasize a particular moral or ethical point. It is a reference to the Hadith Qudsi, wherein Allah, through the Prophet, PBUH, says:
"Allah has decreed excellence in all matters. Thus, if one kills (slaughters), then let him do so well; and if (one) kills (slaughters), then let him sharpen (the blade); and if (one) wants to kill (slaughter), then let him slaughter well. He should sharpen his blade and let the animal face (the blade), and whoever does so, then he has been merciful to the animal." (Narrated by Muslim)
This Hadith Qudsi underscores the importance of excellence and compassion even in mundane matters. It serves as a reminder that Muslims should strive for excellence in all aspects of life, big or small. This teaching is encapsulated in the phrase "Nabi Saja Tidak Pernah…", which serves as a challenge and inspiration for Muslims to emulate the Prophet’s, PBUH, commitment to excellence and kindness.
Conclusion
Akhlak, the moral and ethical character, is a cornerstone of Islamic teachings. The Prophet Muhammad, PBUH, is the paragon of Akhlak, setting an enduring example for Muslims to follow. The Hadith "Nabi Saja Tidak Pernah…" serves as a call to action, encouraging Muslims to strive for excellence and kindness in all their affairs, much like the Prophet, PBUH, would have done. By adhering to such teachings, Muslims can cultivate a moral character that pleases Allah and benefits humanity.
