SPIRIT OF ISLAM JUNE 2O18

34 Spirit of Islam Issue 66 June 2018 THE WAY OF BALANCE AND MODERATION Practical Behaviour The best way is that of moderation. (Prophet Muhammad) B ALANCE and moderation are of great importance in religion, but this importance is not as an eternal principle. Rather, its importance is because of practical wisdom. In this regard, two points are of great importance. One is the fact that balance is required in practical matters and not in religious beliefs or principles . As far as principles or religious beliefs are concerned, what is always desirable is the ideal. In respect of religious truth, there is no middle way. The other point is that the way of moderation and balance is required because of practical necessity. In this world, every person has the freedom of thought. Because of this, differences arise between people. It is simply not possible to put an end to these differences and to get everyone to act and think in the same way. On account of this, in such matters you have to adopt the method of moderation and balance so that you do not clash with others and can lead your lives peacefully. As practical behaviour is related to external form and depends on the prevailing conditions, adjustment can be made in the external form so as to live harmoniously in society. But as religious beliefs are based on eternal principles there is no question of the middle path in this domain. o USA Centre for Peace and Spirituality 2665 Byberry Road, Bensalem, PA 19020 kkaleemuddin@gmail.com Practical behaviour is related to external form. Depending on the prevailing conditions, adjustment can be made in the external form so that we do not clash with others.