“This article explores the essence of humanity (insaniyat) and its profound connection with Islam. It emphasizes the importance of compassion, empathy, and justice toward all living beings, irrespective of religion, race, or nationality. The piece highlights the consequences of losing humanity, outlines acts that uphold or violate it, and urges individuals and societies to cultivate moral values and global peace through humaneness.”
By Dr.Mohammad Kafiluddin Sarkar
Q: What is humanity?
A: Humanity refers to showing kindness, love, and compassion to every living being on this earth. It is one of the highest virtues of human beings. Without it, a person cannot truly be called human. Those who possess humanity naturally show empathy and understanding toward others.
Q: What are the characteristics of humanity?
A: Humanity, or insaniyat, is the distinguishing quality that sets humans apart from other creatures. It includes traits such as kindness, love, and empathy. Among all human virtues, humanity is the most noble, often expressed through compassionate behavior.
Q: What is the relationship between humanity and Islam?
A: Islam is a religion of peace and humanity. The Quran forbids cruelty toward any creature. Allah commands, “O you who believe! Be steadfast in justice and bear witness for Allah, even if it is against yourselves” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:135). Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized treating others with kindness, even those who mistreat us. Humanity in Islam transcends religion; it extends to helping and showing compassion to everyone, regardless of their faith.
Q: How far does humanity extend?
A: Humanity is universal. It has no boundaries. It applies to all humans, irrespective of religion, race, or nationality, and even to all living beings. If humanity were widespread, people around the world would be free from suffering and injustice. The absence of mutual compassion and empathy has led to wars, violence, and social unrest.
Q: What are acts of humanity?
A: Every act of humanity is beneficial. It fosters empathy, respect, and moral character. Compassion toward animals naturally extends to fellow humans. Humanity helps build civilized societies and peaceful environments where justice prevails.
Q: What are acts against humanity?
A: Acts that intentionally harm innocent individuals or groups are anti-humanitarian. These include murder, abduction, torture, sexual violence, child abuse, oppression, slavery, genocide, discrimination, and other violations of human rights. Such acts are strictly prohibited and considered crimes against humanity.
Q: When did crimes against humanity begin?
A: The first act of cruelty occurred when Cain killed his brother Abel out of jealousy. This marked the beginning of human injustice. Since then, such acts have continued in various forms throughout history.
Q: What are the consequences of lack of humanity?
A: Without humanity, humans lose moral restraint. Cruelty becomes easy, empathy fades, and people act like unfeeling animals. The absence of compassion breeds violence, injustice, and social disorder. Humanity is essential for maintaining peace and order in families, societies, and the world.
Q: How should we treat followers of other religions?
A: Humanity transcends religion and race. Islam encourages respect, fairness, and compassion toward everyone, including non-Muslims. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) demonstrated empathy even toward non-Muslims. Islam grants them rights, aids the needy, and forbids oppression. Acts of kindness and justice should be extended to all, regardless of faith.
Q: Are human rights and humanity the same?
A: Human rights are fundamental entitlements of every person, regardless of nationality, religion, or social status. Humanity means respecting these rights and refraining from harming others. Human rights cannot be fully realized without cultivating humanity.
Q: Which comes first, humanity or religion?
A: Religion provides guidance for practicing humanity, but humanity itself transcends religious boundaries. A person can show compassion to all humans and creatures without limitation. Humanity fosters global peace and order, uniting people across social, economic, and religious divides.
Q: What is the importance of nurturing humanity?
A: Nurturing humanity develops moral behavior, discernment between right and wrong, and honesty. It strengthens empathy, cooperation, and social harmony, creating a just and peaceful society.
Q: Why is humanity in crisis globally?
A: Today, violence, war, destruction, and oppression dominate the world. Humans often act like predators toward one another. Schools, hospitals, and communities are destroyed. This global crisis calls for urgent collective action to revive humanity and compassion for all.
[The writer is an Islamic Thinker & Researcher. He can be reached by [email protected]]
