The Quran is a guide to transforming our entire being, and character is the hallmark of a true believer. 

The term ‘Khuluq’ (خُلُق) in Arabic, referring to character, disposition, and ethics, is deeply rooted in our tradition. It is the imprint of faith upon our actions, our words, and our hearts. 

Let us delve into some of the luminous verses that guide us towards this beautiful character.

1. A Quranic Verse on the Prophet’s (PBUH) Exemplary Character

Our journey into Quranic ethics must begin with the one sent as a mercy to all worlds, our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Allah Himself testifies to his magnificent character:

“وَإِنَّكَ لَعَلَىٰ خُلُقٍ عَظِيمٍ” 

Wa innaka la’alaa khuluqin ‘aẓeem

“And indeed, you are of a great moral character.” (Surah Al-Qalam, 68:4)

Contemplate the word ‘عَظِيمٍ’ (‘aẓeem). In Arabic, it doesn’t just mean ‘great’; it signifies something of immense, profound, and weighty significance, a character of unparalleled magnificence. 

This verse is not just praise; it is a Divine affirmation that sets the Prophet’s (PBUH) character as the ultimate standard for all humanity. His life was the Quran in motion. He embodied every virtue the Quran speaks of.

Exploring the context and interpretations of these verses, and seeing how the Prophet (PBUH) embodied them, can be a lifelong pursuit. Our Online Quran Tafseer Course at Quranica offers guided learning to delve deeper into such profound meanings, helping you connect the Divine word with the prophetic example.

2. A Quranic Verse on Generosity, Forgiveness, and Controlling Anger

Allah describes the characteristics of the Muttaqin (المتقين – the God-conscious, the pious) – those who are shielded by their awareness of Him. 

Among these defining traits are beautiful aspects of good character:

“الَّذِينَ يُنفِقُونَ فِي السَّرَّاءِ وَالضَّرَّاءِ وَالْكَاظِمِينَ الْغَيْظَ وَالْعَافِينَ عَنِ النَّاسِ ۗ وَاللَّهُ يُحِبُّ الْمُحْسِنِينَ” 

Alladheena yunfiqoona fis-sarraaa’i wad-darraaa’i wal-kaadhimeenal-ghaiza wal-‘aafeena ‘anin-naas; wallaahu yuhibbul-muhsineen

“Those who spend [in Allah’s Cause] in prosperity and in adversity, who restrain anger, and who pardon the people – and Allah loves the doers of good.” (Surah Aal-Imran, 3:134)

Generosity in all circumstances, whether easy or difficult. 

Then, notice the phrase ‘الْكَاظِمِينَ الْغَيْظَ’ (al-kāẓimīn al-ghayẓ) – those who restrain anger. The Arabic word ‘kaẓama’ (كَظَمَ) paints a vivid picture; it means to suppress or swallow something. It implies a conscious effort to control one’s anger, not merely to not show it, but to truly manage it internally. 

This is followed by ‘الْعَافِينَ عَنِ النَّاسِ’ (al-‘āfīn ‘an an-nās) – pardoning people. This is a higher station; after controlling one’s own anger, one elevates to forgiving others. 

And the verse concludes with ‘وَاللَّهُ يُحِبُّ الْمُحْسِنِينَ’ (wallāhu yuḥibbu al-muḥsinīn) – and Allah loves the Muhsinin, those who perfect their good deeds, who strive for excellence in their worship and their character.

3. A Quranic Verse on the Conduct of Allah’s Servants

How should a true servant of the Most Merciful carry themselves in this world? The Quran paints a beautiful picture of humility and peaceful engagement:

“وَعِبَادُ الرَّحْمَٰنِ الَّذِينَ يَمْشُونَ عَلَى الْأَرْضِ هَوْنًا وَإِذَا خَاطَبَهُمُ الْجَاهِلُونَ قَالُوا سَلَامًا” 

Wa ‘ibaadur-Rahmaanil-ladheena yamshoona ‘alal-ardi hawnanw wa idhaa khaatabahumul-jaahiloona qaloo salamaa

“And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth easily, and when the ignorant address them [harshly], they say [words of] peace.” (Surah Al-Furqan, 25:63)

Ponder the phrase ‘يَمْشُونَ عَلَى الْأَرْضِ هَوْنًا’ (yamshūna ‘alā al-arḍi hawnan). ‘Hawnan’ signifies walking with ease, humility, tranquility, and gentleness, without arrogance or boisterousness. 

And how do they respond to provocation? When the ignorant, or those prone to foolish or aggressive speech, address them, they do not retaliate in kind. Instead, they say ‘Salāma’ – words of peace. They disengage from negativity and offer peace, protecting their own hearts and often diffusing tension. 

This is the dignified conduct of the servants of Ar-Rahman.

Perfecting the recitation of such beautiful and calming verses truly enhances one’s connection to their message of peace. 

Many students find our Learn Quran with Tajweed course or even the Advanced Tajweed Course invaluable for this journey at Quranica, helping them articulate these words with the beauty and precision they deserve, making the experience of reciting and listening even more profound.

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4.: A Quranic Verse on Speaking Words of Truth and Appropriateness

Our character is profoundly expressed through our speech. Allah guides us towards words that are both truthful and fitting:

“يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَقُولُوا قَوْلًا سَدِيدًا” 

Yaaa ayyuhal-ladheena aamanut-taqul-laaha wa qooloo qawlan sadeedaa

“O you who have believed, fear Allah and speak words of appropriate justice.” (Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:70)

The term ‘sadīdan’ is rich. It means speech that is truthful, to the point, correct, sound, apt, and hits the mark. It is speech that is free from falsehood, harshness, and frivolity. It is speech that is constructive and appropriate for the situation. 

This verse reminds us that conscious awareness of Allah should directly translate into the integrity and righteousness of our words. 

Think of the power of ‘qawlan sadīdan’ – it can mend hearts, clarify truths, and prevent fitnah (discord). SubhanAllah, how comprehensive is this guidance!

5. Quranic Verses on Kindness to Parents

Among the most emphasized aspects of good character in the Quran is Birr al-Walidayn – dutifulness and kindness to parents. This is a cornerstone of Islamic ethics, second only to the worship of Allah.

“وَقَضَىٰ رَبُّكَ أَلَّا تَعْبُدُوا إِلَّا إِيَّاهُ وَبِالْوَالِدَيْنِ إِحْسَانًا ۚ إِمَّا يَبْلُغَنَّ عِندَكَ الْكِبَرَ أَحَدُهُمَا أَوْ كِلَاهُمَا فَلَا تَقُل لَّهُمَا أُفٍّ وَلَا تَنْهَرْهُمَا وَقُل لَّهُمَا قَوْلًا كَرِيمًا وَاخْفِضْ لَهُمَا جَنَاحَ الذُّلِّ مِنَ الرَّحْمَةِ وَقُل رَّبِّ ارْحَمْهُمَا كَمَا رَبَّيَانِي صَغِيرًا” 

Wa qaḍā Rabbuka allā ta’budū illā iyyāhu wa bil-wālidayni iḥsānā. Immā yablughanna ‘indakal-kibara aḥaduhumā aw kilāhumā fa lā taqul lahumā uffin wa lā tanharhumā wa qul lahumā qawlan karīmā. Wakhfiḍ lahumā janāḥadh-dhulli minar-raḥmati wa qul Rabbir-ḥamhumā kamā rabbayānī ṣaghīrā.

“And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], “uff,” and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word. And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, “My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small.” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:23-24)

Reflect on how Allah Almighty pairs the command to worship Him alone with the command for Ihsan (إِحْسَانًا – utmost good treatment) towards parents. 

Notice the delicate tenderness in the command: “say not to them [so much as] ‘uff'”. The word ‘uff’ (أُفٍّ) in Arabic is an expression of the slightest irritation, frustration, or contempt. Even this, the smallest utterance of displeasure, is forbidden. 

The Quran then guides us to positive action: “speak to them a noble word.” ‘Qawlan karīman’ means speech that is gentle, respectful, honorable, and kind.

The imagery continues with “And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy.” The ‘wing of humility’ is a powerful metaphor. Just as a bird lovingly shelters its young beneath its wings, children are to show humility and tender care for their parents, driven by mercy. 

The command to make du’a (supplication) for them – ‘My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small’ – seals this beautiful instruction, reminding us of their sacrifices.

6. A Quranic Verse on Avoiding ill Suspicion and Backbiting

Our character is also defined by how we interact within the community, particularly concerning what we assume about others and what we say about them. 

Surah Al-Hujurat provides profound guidance on social ethics.

“يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اجْتَنِبُوا كَثِيرًا مِّنَ الظَّنِّ إِنَّ بَعْضَ الظَّنِّ إِثْمٌ ۖ وَلَا تَجَسَّسُوا وَلَا يَغْتَب بَّعْضُكُم بَعْضًا ۚ أَيُحِبُّ أَحَدُكُمْ أَن يَأْكُلَ لَحْمَ أَخِيهِ مَيْتًا فَكَرِهْتُمُوهُ ۚ وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ تَوَّابٌ رَّحِيمٌ” 

Yā ayyuhal-ladheena āmanuj-tanibū katheeram-minaẓ-ẓanni inna ba’ḍaẓ-ẓanni ithm. Wa lā tajassasū wa lā yaghtab ba’ḍukum ba’ḍā. Ayuḥibbu aḥadukum an ya’kula laḥma akhīhi maytan fa karihtumūh. Wattaqul-Lāh; innallāha Tawwābur-Raḥīm.

“O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful.” (Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:12)

We are commanded to avoid much assumption. The word ‘ijtanibū’ (اجْتَنِبُوا) implies making an effort to stay away from something, to keep it at a distance. This protects the heart from baseless suspicions that can poison relationships and one’s own peace.

Then come two more crucial prohibitions: ‘وَلَا تَجَسَّسُوا’ (wa lā tajassasū) – and do not spy. This means not seeking out the hidden faults or private matters of others. 

And ‘وَلَا يَغْتَب بَّعْضُكُم بَعْضًا’ (wa lā yaghtab ba’ḍukum ba’ḍā) – and do not backbite each other. Backbiting (ghībah – غيبة) is to mention something about your brother/sister in their absence that they would dislike. 

7. A Quranic Verse on Honesty and Righteous Association

Truthfulness (الصدق – As-Sidq) is a cornerstone of a believer’s identity. It is not merely about speaking the truth but also about living in truth and choosing companions who uphold it.

“يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَكُونُوا مَعَ الصَّادِقِينَ” 

Yā ayyuhal-ladheena āmanut-taqul-Lāha wa kūnū ma’aṣ-ṣādiqeen.

“O you who have believed, fear Allah and be with those who are true.” (Surah At-Tawbah, 9:119)

After the call to Taqwa (fear Allah, be conscious of Him), which is the foundation of all good, comes the command: “and be with those who are true.” 

The verb ‘kūnū’ (كُونُوا) is a command form of ‘to be’. It implies not just occasional association, but a consistent state of being, of aligning oneself with, and becoming part of, the company of the truthful. 

As-Sādiqīn (الصَّادِقِينَ) are not just those who don’t lie; they are those whose words and actions are in harmony, who are sincere in their faith and upright in their dealings. Their entire being resonates with truth.

8. A Quranic Verse on Fulfilling Responsibilities and Judging Justly

A crucial aspect of noble character is integrity in fulfilling one’s obligations and upholding justice in all matters. Allah Almighty commands us:

“إِنَّ اللَّهَ يَأْمُرُكُمْ أَن تُؤَدُّوا الْأَمَانَاتِ إِلَىٰ أَهْلِهَا وَإِذَا حَكَمْتُم بَيْنَ النَّاسِ أَن تَحْكُمُوا بِالْعَدْلِ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ نِعِمَّا يَعِظُكُم بِهِ ۗ إِنَّ اللَّهَ كَانَ سَمِيعًا بَصِيرًا” 

Innallāha ya’murukum an tu’addul-amānāti ilā ahlihā wa idhā ḥakamtum baynan-nāsi an taḥkumū bil-‘adl. Innallāha ni’immā ya’iẓukum bih. Innallāha kāna Samī’am-Baṣīrā.

“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice. Excellent is that which Allah instructs you. Indeed, Allah is ever Hearing and Seeing.” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:58)

Consider the comprehensive nature of the word ‘الْأَمَانَاتِ’ (al-amānāt) – trusts. This isn’t limited to material possessions entrusted to someone. 

It encompasses all forms of trusts: leadership, advice, knowledge, secrets, responsibilities towards one’s family, community, and even one’s own limbs and faculties given by Allah. The command is to ‘render them to whom they are due’ – to fulfill these trusts with diligence and honesty.

Following this, Allah commands: “and when you judge between people to judge with justice.” Al-‘Adl (الْعَدْلِ) – justice – is to give everything and everyone its due right, without bias, prejudice, or personal inclination. 

For those drawn to memorizing the Quran, it’s a truly special endeavor. Quranica offers organized Quran Memorization and Hifz classes, including dedicated Hifz classes for Ladies and Sisters, to guide students on this fulfilling journey. It’s a commitment that brings positive change to all parts of life.

9. A Quranic Quote on Patience and Forgiveness

Patience (الصبر – As-Sabr) and forgiveness (العفو – Al-‘Afw) are not signs of weakness, but rather indicators of immense inner strength and resolve, highly praised by Allah.

“وَلَمَن صَبَرَ وَغَفَرَ إِنَّ ذَٰلِكَ لَمِنْ عَزْمِ الْأُمُورِ” 

Wa laman ṣabara wa ghafara inna dhālika lamin ‘azmil-umoor.

“And whoever is patient and forgives – indeed, that is of the matters [requiring] determination.” (Surah Ash-Shura, 42:43)

Sabr (صبر) here is not passive resignation, but an active endurance, a steadfastness in the face of adversity, provocation, or harm from others. It is to restrain oneself from reacting impulsively or vengefully. 

Coupled with this is Ghafara (غفر) – to forgive, to overlook the fault, to pardon.

The true beauty lies in the concluding statement: ‘إِنَّ ذَٰلِكَ لَمِنْ عَزْمِ الْأُمُورِ’ (inna dhālika lamin ‘azmil-umoor). ‘Azm al-umoor’ (عَزْمِ الْأُمُورِ) signifies matters of strong resolve, firm determination, and great fortitude. It tells us that patience and forgiveness are not easy virtues; they require conscious effort, strength of character, and a high degree of self-control. 

10. A Quranic Verse on Repelling Evil with Goodness

In our interactions with others, we will inevitably encounter that which is less than ideal. The Quran teaches us a powerful and transformative approach to such situations, elevating us to a station of immense virtue.

“وَلَا تَسْتَوِي الْحَسَنَةُ وَلَا السَّيِّئَةُ ۚ ادْفَعْ بِالَّتِي هِيَ أَحْسَنُ فَإِذَا الَّذِي بَيْنَكَ وَبَيْنَهُ عَدَاوَةٌ كَأَنَّهُ وَلِيٌّ حَمِيمٌ” 

Wa lā tastawil-ḥasanatu wa las-sayyi’ah. Idfa’ billatī hiya aḥsanu fa idhal-ladhī baynaka wa baynahū ‘adāwatun ka’annahū waliyyun ḥamīm.

“And not equal are the good deed and the bad. Repel [evil] by that [deed] which is better; and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity [will become] as though he was a devoted friend.” (Surah Fussilat, 41:34-35)

The word ‘Idfa” (ادْفَعْ) means to repel, to push away, to avert. It’s an active response, not mere passivity. 

And how are we to repel? Not with its like, but with “that which is aḥsan” – that which is better, more excellent, more beautiful. This could be responding to harshness with gentleness, to anger with a calm word, to injury with forgiveness.

The transformative potential of this approach is then described: “and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity [will become] as though he was a devoted friend.” 

The term ‘waliyyun ḥamīm’ (وَلِيٌّ حَمِيمٌ) signifies a close, loyal, protective, and warm friend. Imagine turning an enemy into such a friend through the sheer nobility of your response! This is the power of prophetic character.

11. A Quranic Quote on Fulfilling Covenants

Integrity in one’s commitments is a hallmark of a believer and a fundamental aspect of a trustworthy character. The Quran lays great emphasis on fulfilling one’s word.

“وَأَوْفُوا بِالْعَهْدِ ۖ إِنَّ الْعَهْدَ كَانَ مَسْئُولًا”

Wa awfū bil-‘ahd; innal-‘ahda kāna mas’ūlā.

“And fulfill [every] covenant. Indeed, the covenant is ever [that about which one will be] questioned.” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:34)

The command ‘awfū’ (أَوْفُوا) from the root W-F-Y (و-ف-ي) means to fulfill completely, to discharge perfectly, without any shortcoming. 

Al-‘Ahd (الْعَهْدِ) – the covenant – is a comprehensive term. It includes covenants made with Allah (like the covenant of faith), covenants made between people (promises, contracts, agreements, pledges), and even implicit societal trusts.

The word ‘mas’ūlā’ (مَسْئُولًا) means ‘that which will be asked about’, indicating accountability. On the Day of Judgment, we will be questioned about the covenants we made – whether we fulfilled them or violated them.

12. A Quranic Quote on Selflessness and Overcoming Miserliness

A truly noble character transcends mere personal piety and extends to how we interact with and prioritize others. 

The Quran highlights a magnificent quality displayed by the Ansar (the Helpers of Madinah), which serves as an ideal for all believers: Al-Īthār (الإيثار) – altruism, preferring others over oneself.

“…وَيُؤْثِرُونَ عَلَىٰ أَنفُسِهِمْ وَلَوْ كَانَ بِهِمْ خَصَاصَةٌ ۚ وَمَن يُوقَ شُحَّ نَفْسِهِ فَأُولَٰئِكَ هُمُ الْمُفْلِحُونَ” 

…Wa yu’thirūna ‘alā anfusihim wa law kāna bihim khaṣāṣah. Wa man yūqa shuḥḥa nafsihi fa ulā’ika humul-mufliḥūn.

“…but give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul – it is those who will be the successful.” (Surah Al-Hashr, 59:9 – part of the verse)

Yu’thirūn (يُؤْثِرُونَ) means they prefer others. This isn’t just sharing from abundance; this is giving to others what you yourself are in desperate need of. 

‘Khaṣāṣah’ (خَصَاصَةٌ) implies a pressing, personal need. This is the pinnacle of generosity and empathy.

Then comes a universal principle: “And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul – it is those who will be the successful.” 

Shuḥḥ (شُحَّ) is more intense than mere bukhl (miserliness). It refers to a deep-seated stinginess, a covetousness combined with an intense desire to withhold, not just wealth but also good. 

To be protected (يُوقَ – yūqa, passive voice, implying protection from Allah) from this “stinginess of the soul” is to achieve true falāḥ (فلاح) – success, prosperity, and salvation in this life and the Hereafter.

Read more about: Quranic Verses On Charity

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Conclusion:

Our journey through these Quranic verses on good character (Khuluq), presented in both Arabic and English, has highlighted the Quran’s comprehensive guidance for refining our conduct and beautifying our interactions. 

Emulating the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) magnificent character (68:4) – the ultimate standard – to cultivating virtues such as controlling anger and forgiving others (3:134), walking with humility and peace (25:63), and speaking words of truth, kindness, especially to parents (33:70, 17:23-24).

Indeed, these Quranic quotes on good character remind us that true faith is reflected in our actions and dealings – from fulfilling trusts and judging justly (4:58) to avoiding suspicion and backbiting (49:12), repelling evil with goodness (41:34), and embodying patience and selflessness (42:43, 59:9). 

Adorning ourselves with such noble qualities is not merely about personal piety but is fundamental to building a compassionate, just, and harmonious society. 

May these luminous verses inspire us to continuously strive towards the beautiful character praised by Allah, seeking His pleasure and embodying the sublime teachings of Islam in every facet of our lives.