In this introduction we will present some general issues...

In this introduction we will present some general issues with the aim of clarifying the subject which is discussed in this book and these are summarized as follows: The word ‘adab’ used in classical and colloquial ‘Arabic has various meanings such as: • Elegance, gracefulness and meticulousness in affairs • Coming together of a community on an issue • Obedience and respect to others • Sciences and knowledge, praiseworthy conduct and good behaviour • A positive force in a person that enables him to refrain from evil deeds Adab also refers to some introductory sciences like the study of language, grammar, correct use of similes and idioms, eloquence in speech and poetry.

It also refers to nobility of character, purity of the soul and perfection of the self. As for ‘adeeb’, it refers to the teacher, the author and the orator. Similarly, it is used for anyone who has mastery over poetry and language, use of metaphors, effective speech and eloquent presentation. The word ‘sunnah’ also has many meanings amongst which are: growth, maturity, clarity of speech, the graceful galloping of a horse, brushing the teeth, crying and flowing.

Sunnatullah refers to Allah’s commandments, His Will and pre-ordinances as well as His punishments and rewards. Sunnah is also used to mean: the conduct, nature, origin, divine laws, choosing a particular route and following of desires and opinions. These are the different meanings of the words adab and sunnah .

However, that which fits in with our discussion here is that: all actions that are accepted by the intellect and religion, if acted upon in the best and most excellent manner, would be referred to as ‘adab’. The person who has adab always performs his actions and dealings in the most graceful and elegant manner.

As for the attributes that are concerned with purity of the soul, perfection of the self and the innermost part of the human being – like generosity, courage, justice, forgiveness, mercy and all other humanly attributes – these come under the title of ‘akhlaq’. To put it in another way, adab forms the attributes of the actions of a person as they are performed in the ‘real’ world whereas akhlaq consists of the attributes of the inner self. These two meanings are in this way linked to each other.