Islam_in_Focus_text

itual reform and moral maturity, in which case many fine
qualities of man would subside and many moral potentials
may never be actualized.
Tt is common knowledge that the people who are taught
to forgive under all circumstances do not, and probably can-
not, practice their teachings, because it is not in the interest
of humanity in the long run, nor is it in the interest of moral-
ity itself. Likewise, the people who are taught to practice
stern retaliation have little or no respect for human virtues
and careless for moral values as universal rules. But Islam,
the Divine foster of human nature, has given the right an-
swer to human problems. To those wrong doers who are
looking for a second chance, who may improve or benefit by
granting them pardon, forgiveness is recommended and pre-
ferable. But against those who might misunderstand the mo-
tives of forgiveness or be tempted to pursue the wrong
course, equal retaliation is authorized. Thus, the attitude of
the Muslim in either case is sound and beneficial when he
forgives, he pleases God, retains the upper hand and contrib-
utes to the reformation of the delinquent. And when he retal-
iates, he defends the right, establishes order and justice, and
helps to arrest evil. Now, which is sound morality? The atti-
tude of the person who is a ruthless avenger indiscriminate-
ly? Or the attitude of a Muslim who makes room for mercy
and forgiveness, and who allows for extraordinary circum-
stances? And who is morally sound? The person who for-
——