The Ones Who Possesses Ghayrah1

Tradition

إنَّ اللّهَ تَعالَى يُحِبُّ مِنْ عِبادِهِ الْغَيُورَ

The Prophet (S) is narrated to have said: “God the Almighty loves those of his servants who are Ghayur.”2

Brief Commentary

Ghayrah is in reality a sense of loyalty and protectiveness over one’s religion and family. It can even extend to wanting to protect one’s country as well. A Ghayur individual feels responsible towards protecting these things and becomes extremely upset when a stranger encroaches upon them. Ghayrah is one of the prominent characteristics of the prophets and the men of God. Ghayrah is a powerful characteristic that is critical against attacks by outsiders against one’s religion, family, and people.

• 1. This term refers to those who have a protective sense towards their religion, their people, and their family. An individual who possesses this feeling of protectiveness is called Ghayur.
• 2. Nahj al-Fasahah, p. 15.