Musa Kâzım GÜLÇÜR
Now let us look at ways that we can be saved from the ill will of others. The following verse commands that we seek refuge with God from “the evil of” four things:
“Say, I seek refuge in the Lord of the daybreak from the evil of what He has created, and from the evil of the darkness (of night) when it overspreads, and from the evil of the witches who blow on knots (to cast a spell), and from the evil of the envious one when he envies.” (Falaq 113:1–5)
Naturally, the one that applies to our subject here is the last one, envy. Actions produced by a heart that is filled with hatred can affect the person against whom harm is desired; we all know that a certain degree of envy can lead a person to physically attack another person. But we also know that under no circumstances can any harm or help come to a person without God’s permission. Further, if harm touches us, no one besides God can ward it off. So, taking refuge in God is the only way to be protected against evil.
These are the precautions that can be taken against hasad:
1. We must be patient with the one who bears us envy, and not sink to their level by losing our temper.
2. No matter if the antagonist does not fear God, nor feel shame before people, or acts in disgraceful, unfair ways, the one being antagonized should never be tempted to waver from belief and justice.
3. The antagonist should not be given too much attention or thought about too much. To dwell on such a person is the first step to allowing them to defeat one.
4. Do not inflict any ill treatment against the antagonist. Forgive them, and if you have the chance, do good to them. Do not pay any attention to the bad things they think about you.
5. Persevere and rely on God when confronted with resentment. When trust in God has truly taken root in a person’s heart that person no longer fears anyone else. [Mawdudi, Tafhim al-Qur ’an, 7/326]
Translated by Jessica ÖZALP
SELAM 