“None of you has complete faith until he loves for his brother that which he loves for himself.”^[1]

Every deed, every word, and every transaction that we do not like for ourselves should not be liked for others, and every deed, word, and transaction that we like should also be liked for others. Most certainly, this is the secret behind our personal progress as well as that of society. If we adopt this pearl of wisdom in our lives, our society can reach new heights in a very short space of time.

Read the history of the blessed time of the Companions, the Followers, and their Successors عَـلَيْهِمُ الرِّضْوَانْ! At that time, Muslims were successful and prosperous. Why? Because they wished well for each other, they desired good for each other, and as a result, they all moved towards progress and success. Ever since hatred, discord, the love of wealth and power have entered our hearts, we are moving towards decline day by day. We must reflect on our current state and practically implement this magnificent pearl of wisdom mentioned in the Hadith about a perfect Muslim being someone who likes for others what he likes for himself.

Astonishing Reason for Refusal of a Transaction

Sayyidunā Sarī al-Saqaṭī رَحْمَةُ الـلّٰـهِ عَلَيْه was a major saint who used to trade. Once, he bought almonds for 60 dinars and wrote in his ledger that he would sell these almonds for 63 dinars. After a few days, the price of almonds increased. The same almonds he had bought for 60 dinars were now worth 90 dinars in the market. A man came to him and said, "I want to buy almonds."

Sayyidunā Sarī al-Saqaṭī رَحْمَةُ الـلّٰـهِ عَلَيْه replied, "Sure.”

The man asked, “What’s the price?" and the reply was given, “63 dinars.”