Islam is the religion of humanity and peace. The core of Islam is based on mutual respect and humanity. Glorious Quran as well as the life of beloved Prophet Muhammad PBUH is full of the lessons of humanity and mutual respect. ALLAH swt has directed us to be polite with everyone, even with our enemies. Islam teaches us to honor others, and never fell down to the level of arrogance no matter what the case is.
ALLAH swt says in Glorious Quran; 16:125
“Invite (all) to the way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious”
One should not take this verse in the meaning of preaching only. Remember, a good Muslim is teacher. He teaches others with his behavior before he uses his words. Also, in case of argument, one should not let the talk go into uselessness. When talk drifts to the loose end, better is to let go of it.
In another verse, ALLAH swt says; 41:34
“And O prophet: goodness and evil are not equal. Repel evil with what is best. You will see that, he with whom you had enmity has become your closest friend.”
In this verse, ALLAH swt says that evil should not be answered with another evil. Enmity is the most common trait of most societies. People try to give teeth shattering replies to their enemies. In some areas, people live by hate for generations. When asked why they hate their neighboring tribes or people or countries, their answer mostly is that they were betrayed or harmed such and such time ago, hence the hatred.
This beautiful verse unveils a most important fact. Whenever hate is responded by love, enmity ends. There are plenty of examples in history which ended on the same fact. The biggest example of this is the life of our beloved prophet Muhammad PBUH. No matter how much people hurt Him, He never abused back. He always remained in the state of honor. This is why even His enemies could never find any mistakes in him. Such was the moral character of our beloved prophet PBUH.
Mutual respect can be achieved only with high morality. Those who do not respect others do not respect their own selves either. In order to expect others to honor you, you must yourself be respectful to others. Change always starts from home. To see a beautiful world around, one should be beautiful from inside.
ALLAH swt says in Glorious Quran; 13:11
“Lo! Allah changeth not the condition of a folk until they (first) change that which is in their hearts; and if Allah willeth misfortune for a folk there is none that can repel it, nor have they a defender beside Him.”
Always seek ALLAH’s forgiveness and try your best to remain distant from the evils.