Dr. Ali Gomaa, a member of Al-Azhar’s Council of Senior Scholars, explained that gentleness is among the beautiful qualities loved by Allah.
He highlighted the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ teaching to Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her, about the importance of treating others with kindness and avoiding unnecessary harshness.
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Allah is gentle and loves gentleness.”
This teaching reflects the important place of kindness in Islam and its connection with mercy, emotional restraint, and respectful treatment of others.
Kindness and Gentleness Were Among the Prophet’s Qualities
Ali Gomaa emphasized that kindness and gentleness were central aspects of the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ character.
The Quran praises the Prophet ﷺ, saying: “Indeed, you are of a great moral character.”
Allah also says: “It is by mercy from Allah that you were gentle with them. Had you been harsh and hard-hearted, they would have dispersed from around you.”
These verses demonstrate how mercy and gentleness can bring people together, while harshness and a hard heart can push people away.
The Prophet ﷺ Encouraged Gentleness
The Prophet ﷺ encouraged believers to adopt a gentle and approachable manner.
He said: “Shall I not tell you who will be forbidden from the Fire? Everyone who is approachable, gentle and easygoing.”
He also taught Muslims to approach religious practice with balance and gentleness, saying: “This religion is strong, so go through it with gentleness.”
Another well-known teaching states: “Indeed, religion is ease.”
These teachings emphasize moderation and balance rather than unnecessary harshness or excessive difficulty.
Gentleness Is a Fruit of Good Character
Gentleness is closely connected to good character. Anger, harshness and excessive attachment to worldly concerns can contribute to aggressive behavior.
Imam Abu Hamid al-Ghazali described gentleness as a result of good character and inner soundness, emphasizing the importance of controlling anger and desires and keeping them within balanced limits.
Gentleness therefore does not mean weakness. It means choosing a balanced and thoughtful way of dealing with people while maintaining legitimate rights and principles.
The Danger of Hard-Heartedness
The Prophet ﷺ warned against losing mercy toward others, saying: “Allah does not show mercy to one who does not show mercy to people.”
He also said: “Mercy is not removed except from one who is wretched.”
These teachings show that mercy is not merely a social courtesy. It is an important moral quality that influences family relationships, community life and everyday interactions.
What Do the Words “Jazari” and “Jawwaz” Mean?
Some Prophetic narrations use strong descriptions for blameworthy character traits, including the terms jazari and jawwaz.
These expressions refer to forms of harshness, hardness of heart, arrogance and excessive attachment to worldly interests.
The use of strong descriptive language draws attention to the consequences of allowing harshness to become a permanent part of a person's character.
Gentleness as a Foundation for Good Relationships
Kindness can have a direct impact on family relationships, workplace interactions, relationships with children and communication within the wider community.
A gentle word can create an opportunity for dialogue, while unnecessary harshness may deepen disagreements and make conflicts more difficult to resolve.
Following the Prophet’s ﷺ example therefore involves more than speaking politely. It includes controlling anger, respecting others, showing mercy and choosing balanced responses.
Why Does Society Need Gentleness?
A culture of kindness can create greater space for understanding, forgiveness and constructive communication.
The Islamic emphasis on mercy, gentleness and good character provides a framework for building healthier relationships and reducing the harmful effects of harsh and hostile interactions.
What does kindness mean in Islam?
Kindness means treating others gently and respectfully while avoiding unnecessary harshness, without abandoning legitimate rights or principles.
Does gentleness mean weakness?
No. Gentleness refers to a balanced and wise approach to dealing with people; it does not require a person to surrender their rights.
What did the Prophet ﷺ say about gentleness?
The Prophet ﷺ taught that Allah loves gentleness and encouraged believers to adopt kindness and mercy in their dealings with others.
How is gentleness connected to good character?
Gentleness is one of the fruits of good character because it involves controlling anger, avoiding unnecessary harshness and treating others with mercy.
Why does Islam warn against a hard heart?
Because hardness of heart can lead to a lack of mercy and poor treatment of others, while Islam emphasizes compassion, kindness and good character.
