Emotional Intelligence: An Islamic Perspective

Emotional intelligence (EI), from an Islamic viewpoint, can be understood as the ability to recognize, understand, manage, and utilize emotions effectively in accordance with Islamic teachings. This concept aligns closely with the Islamic principles of self-purification (Tazkiyah), which emphasize the purification of the soul and character development.

Emotional Intelligence in Islam

Self-Awareness (Muraqabah):

• Definition: Self-awareness in EI is the ability to recognize one’s own emotions and their effects. In Islam, Muraqabah refers to the awareness and mindfulness of one’s actions and thoughts, constantly monitoring oneself to remain in alignment with Islamic values.
• Relation to Islamic Teachings: The Quran and Hadith stress the importance of self-reflection and self-awareness. For instance, the Quran states, “And be not like those who forgot Allah, so He made them forget themselves” (Quran 59:19). This verse emphasizes the significance of self-awareness in the context of being mindful of one’s relationship with Allah.

Self-Regulation (Sabr):

• Definition: Self-regulation in EI involves managing one’s emotions and impulses effectively. In Islam, Sabr (patience) is a key virtue, involving self-control and perseverance through trials and temptations.
• Relation to Islamic Teachings: The Quran frequently encourages patience and self-restraint, such as in the verse, “Indeed, Allah is with the patient” (Quran 2:153). The practice of Sabr is essential for controlling anger, jealousy, and other negative emotions, aligning with the principles of EI.

Motivation (Niyyah and Ihsan):

• Definition: In EI, motivation refers to the drive to achieve goals through a positive outlook. In Islam, Niyyah (intention) and Ihsan (excellence) play crucial roles in one’s actions and efforts.
• Relation to Islamic Teachings: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Actions are judged by intentions” (Hadith). This highlights the importance of having sincere intentions in all actions, which motivates a believer to strive for excellence (Ihsan) in their worship and daily life.

Empathy (Rahmah and Ta’aruf):

• Definition: Empathy in EI is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. In Islam, Rahmah (compassion) and Ta’aruf (mutual understanding) are fundamental aspects of social conduct.
• Relation to Islamic Teachings: The Quran and Hadith emphasize compassion and empathy towards others. For example, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “The merciful are shown mercy by The Merciful. Be merciful on the earth, and you will be shown mercy from above” (Hadith). This encourages Muslims to practice empathy and kindness.

Social Skills (Husn al-Khuluq):

• Definition: Social skills in EI involve managing relationships and building networks. In Islam, Husn al-Khuluq (good character) is crucial for maintaining harmonious relationships and contributing positively to society.
• Relation to Islamic Teachings: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized good character, saying, “The best among you are those who have the best manners and character” (Hadith). Developing good social skills and treating others with respect and kindness is a reflection of strong emotional intelligence.

Self-Purification (Tazkiyah) and Emotional Intelligence

Tazkiyah, the process of self-purification, is central to Islamic spirituality and moral development. It involves purifying the heart from negative traits and cultivating virtues such as sincerity, humility, and patience. This process directly relates to enhancing emotional intelligence by:

• Promoting Self-Awareness: Through regular self-reflection (Muraqabah) and remembrance of Allah (Dhikr), Muslims become more aware of their emotional states and intentions, which is essential for self-awareness in EI.
• Encouraging Self-Regulation: Practices such as fasting, prayer, and charity help Muslims develop self-control and patience (Sabr), aligning with the self-regulation aspect of EI.
• Fostering Motivation: The concept of Niyyah ensures that actions are performed with sincere intentions, driving motivation towards positive goals, akin to intrinsic motivation in EI.
• Enhancing Empathy: Islamic teachings on compassion (Rahmah) and mutual understanding (Ta’aruf) encourage believers to empathize with others, thereby strengthening empathy in EI.
• Improving Social Skills: Emphasis on good character (Husn al-Khuluq) and ethical conduct enhances social skills, facilitating better interpersonal relationships.

Empathy and Ithar in Islamic Teachings

Definition and Relation:

• Empathy: Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. It involves putting oneself in someone else’s shoes and experiencing their emotions.
• Ithar (Selflessness): Ithar means preferring others over oneself, even if one is in need. It represents a higher level of empathy where one not only understands and feels for others but also acts sacrificially to benefit them.

Quranic and Prophetic Teachings:

• Quran: The Quran highlights the virtue of Ithar in several verses. For example, “And [they] give them preference over themselves, even though they were in need” (Quran 59:9). This verse praises those who exhibit selflessness, showing how they prioritize the needs of others despite their own hardships.
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) exemplified Ithar in numerous sayings and actions. One notable Hadith states, “None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself” (Hadith, Bukhari and Muslim). This reflects the essence of both empathy and Ithar, encouraging Muslims to feel and act for the welfare of others as they would for themselves.

Examples of Ithar:

• Historical Examples: The companions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) often demonstrated Ithar. For instance, during the migration (Hijrah) from Mecca to Medina, the Ansar (residents of Medina) welcomed the Muhajirun (migrants from Mecca) with open hearts, sharing their homes and resources selflessly.
• Modern Examples: Acts of charity, volunteerism, and humanitarian efforts by Muslims around the world continue to reflect the spirit of Ithar. By supporting those in need, whether through financial assistance, emotional support, or community service, Muslims practice this profound form of empathy.

Integrating Ithar and Empathy in Emotional Intelligence

In the framework of emotional intelligence, integrating Ithar means not only understanding and sharing the feelings of others (empathy) but also taking actions that reflect a deep commitment to their well-being (selflessness). Here’s how this integration can be seen:

1. Enhanced Empathy: Ithar requires a higher level of empathy, where one’s understanding of another’s situation leads to selfless actions. This deep empathy aligns with Islamic principles of compassion (Rahmah) and mutual support (Ta’aruf).
2. Self-Regulation: Practicing Ithar involves significant self-control and patience (Sabr), as one must manage their own needs and desires to prioritize others. This aspect of self-regulation is crucial in emotional intelligence.
3. Social Skills: By prioritizing others’ needs, Ithar strengthens social bonds and fosters a sense of community and cooperation, enhancing social skills and relationships.

Conclusion

In summary, emotional intelligence from an Islamic perspective involves the alignment of one’s emotional skills with Islamic virtues, contributing to personal development and spiritual growth through the process of Tazkiyah. This holistic approach ensures that emotional intelligence is not just about managing emotions but also about cultivating a virtuous character and maintaining a strong connection with Allah.

Empathy in the context of Islamic teachings can indeed be related to the concept of Ithar (إيثار), which refers to selflessness or altruism. While empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others, Ithar goes a step further by prioritizing others’ needs and well-being over one’s own. This profound level of empathy and selflessness is highly valued in Islam and is seen as an embodiment of deep compassion and care for others.