One who seeks success in nurturing...

One who seeks success in nurturing, must himself display impeccable virtue and moral conduct, so that his words and advice have the desired effect; otherwise, if he is lax in performing his own duties, it is obvious that his efforts at nurturing others will be in vain. This is especially the case when his actions and manners are closely observed by the students who then find his words inconsistent with his acts.

When a mentor’s inner self is devoid of taqwa of the all-Creator and he himself does not lead a virtuous life, people will evaluate and judge him and find his conduct wanting, and consequently common trust in him will be shaken and weakened. People will not then be prepared to accept him as a guide and role model in order to achieve moral excellence.

In the verses under discussion, through a series of his recommendations and sagacious counsel, we are introduced to the wisdom of Luqman, who had access to the ultimate source of knowledge and information. His radiant face was familiar and famous amongst his people; and the best utterances and insights of the day could not match even excerpts of his statements. This learned sage turns his attention to the moral training of his son with particular care and creativeness.

He addresses his son by giving him beneficial advice, and by explaining to him the correct course and the nature of his duties. He shows him how to lead a noble life, through which the maxims of spiritual and moral values can best be experienced. In the beginning, in order to motivate his son, to energise the intuitive truths latent in him and to guide him towards his ultimate goal, he clearly sets out for him his duties towards his Creator and reminds him of God’s unity.

This is to illuminate his mind and insight so that he becomes able to prevent himself from deviating from the path of monotheism ( tawhid ) and straying into polytheism ( shirk ).