The Qur’an, a divine revelation, offers humanity a comprehensive guide to life, encompassing spiritual truths, ethical conduct, and social justice. Among its profound narratives is the counsel of Sage Luqman to his son, found in Surah Luqman (Chapter 31). This particular section is renowned for its timeless moral injunctions, acting as a beacon for personal development and harmonious societal interaction. While often focusing on verses 13-17 for their emphasis on monotheism and parental respect, verses 18-20 delve deeper into the nuances of human character and our relationship with the Creator and creation.
Understanding the Context: Luqman’s Admonition
Luqman, a figure revered in Islamic tradition for his wisdom, is believed to have been a righteous man, though not a prophet. His advice to his son is a testament to the universal principles of virtue and sound character, transcending time and culture. Following his counsel against polytheism and urging kindness to parents, verses 18-20 pivot to interpersonal conduct, self-comportment, and a foundational understanding of divine benevolence. These verses collectively lay the groundwork for a balanced personality that is humble, moderate, respectful, and deeply appreciative of God’s blessings.
Dissecting the Moral Lessons from Q.31:18-20
Let us analyze each verse to extract its core ethical teachings:
Q.31:18 – The Call to Humility and Modesty
The eighteenth verse of Surah Luqman directly addresses the pitfalls of arrogance and self-admiration:
“And do not turn your cheek away from people in contempt, nor walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like those who are self-deluded and boastful.”
This verse delivers two distinct yet interconnected admonitions:
- “And do not turn your cheek away from people in contempt” (وَلَا تُصَعِّرْ خَدَّكَ لِلنَّاسِ): This phrase vividly depicts an arrogant posture, where one turns away their face from others, signifying disdain, pride, or a sense of superiority. The moral lesson here is a strong condemnation of arrogance, haughtiness, and looking down upon others. It calls for humility in interaction, urging individuals to approach others with respect and an open countenance, recognizing the inherent dignity of every human being.
- “Nor walk through the earth exultantly” (وَلَا تَمْشِ فِي الْأَرْضِ مَرَحًا): This part warns against walking with an air of excessive pride, boasting, or self-importance. To “walk exultantly” implies a swaggering gait and demeanor that broadcasts one’s perceived greatness, often at the expense of others’ feelings or due to an inflated sense of self-worth. It teaches modesty in one’s bearing and actions, discouraging ostentatious displays of wealth, power, or achievements that might stem from an ungrateful or self-aggrandizing spirit.
- “Indeed, Allah does not like those who are self-deluded and boastful” (إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يُحِبُّ كُلَّ مُخْتَالٍ فَخُورٍ): This concluding statement provides the divine rationale for the preceding prohibitions. It serves as a potent reminder that such traits are abhorrent to God. “Mukhtal” (self-deluded) refers to one who is conceited and sees themselves as superior, while “fakhūr” (boastful) refers to one who brags excessively about their possessions, status, or lineage. The ultimate moral lesson here is that true honor and acceptance come from God, not from human praise or self-glorification. It emphasizes the importance of cultivating inner humility and recognizing that all blessings are from Allah.
Q.31:19 – The Virtue of Moderation and Gentle Communication
The nineteenth verse continues with practical advice on demeanor and speech:
“And be moderate in your pace and lower your voice. Indeed, the harshest of sounds is the braying of donkeys.”
This verse offers further guidance on refining one’s external presentation and communication style:
- “And be moderate in your pace” (وَاقْصِدْ فِي مَشْيِكَ): “Qasid” (moderate/balanced) here implies a balanced walk, neither too fast (suggesting haste or recklessness) nor too slow (suggesting laziness or arrogance). The moral lesson is to maintain moderation and balance in all aspects of life, including one’s physical movements. It speaks to a calm, dignified, and purposeful demeanor, reflecting an inner state of peace and self-control. This principle extends beyond merely walking, encouraging temperance in habits, consumption, and emotional responses.
- “And lower your voice” (وَاغْضُضْ مِن صَوْتِكَ): This instruction advocates for soft, gentle speech, avoiding shouting or speaking in an unnecessarily loud or harsh tone. It highlights the moral significance of respectful communication. A lowered voice conveys humility, thoughtfulness, and consideration for others, creating a more pleasant and effective communicative environment. It discourages aggression, rudeness, and any form of verbal abuse.
- “Indeed, the harshest of sounds is the braying of donkeys” (إِنَّ أَنكَرَ الْأَصْوَاتِ لَصَوْتُ الْحَمِيرِ): This striking analogy serves as a vivid deterrent against loud and unpleasant speech. The braying of donkeys is universally recognized as grating and discordant. By likening harsh voices to this sound, the Quran underscores its undesirability and the discomfort it causes. The moral lesson is that effective and respectful communication relies on a pleasant tone, and that harsh, loud voices are not only uncivil but also counterproductive, often alienating listeners rather than persuading them.
Q.31:20 – The Foundation of Gratitude and Divine Providence
While not a direct admonition from Luqman to his son in the prescriptive sense of verses 18-19, verse 20 immediately follows Luqman’s advice and provides a profound theological foundation that underpins all moral conduct:
“Do you not see that Allah has subjected to you whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth, and has completed His favors upon you, [both] apparent and unapparent? And among the people is he who disputes concerning Allah without knowledge or guidance or an enlightening Book.”
This verse, directly from Allah, serves as a powerful reminder of divine benevolence and omnipotence:
- “Do you not see that Allah has subjected to you whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth, and has completed His favors upon you, [both] apparent and unapparent?” (أَلَمْ تَرَوْا أَنَّ اللَّهَ سَخَّرَ لَكُم مَّا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الْأَرْضِ وَأَسْبَغَ عَلَيْكُمْ نِعَمَهُ ظَاهِرَةً وَبَاطِنَةً): This rhetorical question prompts deep reflection on the countless blessings bestowed upon humanity. It emphasizes God’s absolute sovereignty and His continuous provision, encompassing both the visible (e.g., natural resources, health, family) and the invisible (e.g., faith, intellect, peace of mind). The implicit moral lesson here is profound gratitude (shukr) towards the Creator. Recognizing these immense favors naturally fosters humility, prevents arrogance (as all good comes from God), and instills a sense of responsibility to use these blessings wisely and righteously. It cultivates an ‘attitude of gratitude’ that is central to a fulfilling and moral life.
- “And among the people is he who disputes concerning Allah without knowledge or guidance or an enlightening Book” (وَمِنَ النَّاسِ مَن يُجَادِلُ فِي اللَّهِ بِغَيْرِ عِلْمٍ وَلَا هُدًى وَلَا كِتَابٍ مُّنِيرٍ): This final part warns against engaging in baseless arguments or disputing divine truths without proper knowledge, guidance, or an authoritative scripture. It underscores the importance of seeking knowledge, critical thinking, and adhering to revealed truth. The moral lesson is to grounded in informed belief, avoiding dogmatism born of ignorance, and respecting the limits of one’s knowledge. It subtly links back to humility (not claiming to know what one doesn’t) and the pursuit of wisdom that Luqman himself embodies.
Step-by-Step Guide: Applying Luqman’s Wisdom in Daily Life
Integrating these profound moral lessons into one’s daily routine requires conscious effort and consistent practice. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Cultivate Humility and Abandon Arrogance (Q.31:18)
- Practical Application: Begin by self-reflecting on your interactions. Are you quick to dismiss others’ opinions? Do you unconsciously project an air of superiority? Practice active listening, giving full attention and eye contact to those speaking to you, regardless of their status. When receiving praise, acknowledge it gracefully but internally attribute success to divine blessings and collective effort. Avoid turning your face away, literally or figuratively, from anyone. Engage in service to others, which naturally fosters a sense of shared humanity and diminishes self-importance.
Step 2: Practice Modesty in Demeanor and Actions (Q.31:18)
- Practical Application: Be mindful of your posture, gait, and general conduct. Walk with a calm, dignified stride, neither haughty nor sluggish. Dress appropriately without ostentation, choosing attire that is clean and modest. When discussing achievements, do so with gratitude and measured words, avoiding excessive boasting. Recognize that true worth lies in character and contribution, not in outward displays of wealth or status. Be content with what you have and avoid belittling others for what they lack.
Step 3: Master Gentle and Respectful Communication (Q.31:19)
- Practical Application: Consciously monitor your voice’s volume and tone. In conversations, speak clearly but softly, especially in public spaces or when addressing subordinates. Avoid shouting, interrupting, or using harsh language, even during disagreements. Practice empathy in your speech; choose words that are kind, constructive, and considerate of others’ feelings. Remember that the goal of communication is understanding and connection, not dominance or aggression. If emotions run high, take a moment to compose yourself before responding.
Step 4: Embrace Moderation and Balance in All Aspects (Q.31:19)
- Practical Application: Apply the principle of moderation (“be moderate in your pace”) beyond physical movement to all areas of life. This includes eating, spending, working, and resting. Avoid extremes: neither overindulgence nor excessive asceticism. Seek balance in your emotional responses, not being overly joyous in success nor overly despondent in failure. Prioritize self-control and temperance to maintain equilibrium in your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. A planned and disciplined approach prevents recklessness and promotes stability.
Step 5: Foster Gratitude and Reflect on Divine Blessings (Q.31:20)
- Practical Application: Make gratitude a daily practice. Regularly reflect on the countless “apparent and unapparent” favors from Allah – your health, family, sustenance, knowledge, peace, and natural environment. Keep a gratitude journal, thanking God for specific blessings each day. Recognize that everything you possess, from your abilities to your resources, is a gift from the Divine. This mindset naturally cultivates humility, contentment, and a deeper connection with the Creator, mitigating feelings of entitlement or dissatisfaction.
Step 6: Seek Knowledge and Avoid Baseless Arguments (Q.31:20)
- Practical Application: Cultivate a lifelong habit of learning and critical inquiry. When engaging in discussions, especially on matters of faith or profound truth, ensure your arguments are based on sound knowledge, reliable sources (Quran, Hadith, scholarly consensus), and logical reasoning. Avoid speculating on matters beyond your understanding or engaging in petty disputes based on ignorance or personal bias. Be humble enough to admit when you don’t know and seek guidance from those who are knowledgeable. This promotes intellectual honesty and respectful dialogue.
Conclusion
The admonition of Sage Luqman to his son, particularly within Q.31:18-20, offers an invaluable blueprint for constructing a life of virtue, ethical excellence, and spiritual depth. These verses are not mere abstract ideals but practical guidelines for daily conduct – urging humility over arrogance, moderation over extremism, gentle communication over harshness, and profound gratitude towards the Creator. By consciously adopting these step-by-step practices, individuals can cultivate a balanced character, foster harmonious relationships, and live a life that is pleasing to both God and humanity. Luqman’s wisdom remains a timeless testament to the enduring power of sound moral principles, accessible and applicable to all who seek guidance.
References:
- Ibn Kathir, Ismāʿīl ibn ʿUmar. (n.d.). Tafsīr al-Qurʾān al-ʿAẓīm. (Commentary on Surah Luqman, Verses 18-20). Available in various translations and editions.
- Maulana Maududi, Sayyid Abul A’la. (1972). Tafhim al-Qur’an: The Meaning of the Qur’an. (Commentary on Surah Luqman, Verses 18-20). Islamic Publications, Ltd.
- Al-Qurtubi, Muhammad ibn Ahmad al-Ansari. (n.d.). Al-Jāmiʿ li-Aḥkām al-Qurʾān. (Commentary on Surah Luqman, Verses 18-20). Available in various Arabic editions.
- Al-Ghazali, Abu Hamid Muhammad ibn Muhammad. (2007). Inner Dimensions of Islamic Worship. (Translated by M. Holland from Iḥyāʾ ʿulūm al-dīn). The Islamic Texts Society. (Relevant for understanding the internal spiritual states like humility and gratitude connected to external actions).
- Essays and articles on Islamic ethics from reputable academic institutions specializing in Islamic studies (e.g., accessed through university libraries or journals focusing on Quranic exegesis and ethics).
