Do not mimic the personality of others

 

(For every nation there is a direction to which they face. So hasten towards all that is good.)  (Qur’an 2: 148)

 

(And it is He Who has made you generations coming after generations, replacing each other on the earth. And he has raised you in ranks, some above others…) (Qur’an 6: 165)

 

(Each [group of] people knew its own place for water) (Qur’an 2: 60)

 

Every person has his own set of talents, abilities, skills, and preferences. One aspect of the Prophet’s character was his ability to lead: he employed his Companions each in accordance with his talent and expertise. ‘Ali was both just and wise, so the Prophet (Blessings and Peace be upon him) appointed him to be a judge. The Prophet (bpuh) used Mu’aadh for his knowledge; Ubaee for the Qur’an; Zayd for rulings in matters of inheritance; Khaalid for jihad; Hassaan for poetry; and Qays ibn Thaabit for public speeches (may Allah be pleased with them all).

 

To melt into the personality of another, for whatever reason, is akin to suicide. And to imitate the natural traits of others is to deliver a deathblow to one’s own self. Among Allah’s signs that one should marvel at are the diverse characteristics of people --- such as their talents, the different languages they speak, and their different colors.

 

Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him), for example, through his gentleness and tenderness, greatly benefited Islam and this Nation. ‘Umar, on the other hand, helped lslam and its adherents to be victorious through his stern demeanor and austerity. Therefore, be comfortable with your inherent talents and abilities. Develop them, expand on them, and benefit from them.

 

(Allah burdens not a person beyond his scope) (Qur’an 2:286)