DAY 3 - BIJAK MENYIKAPI PUJIAN, DEWASA MENGHADAPI HUJATAN - Ustadzah Qonik Hanifa, S. Pd., Gr., M.M.

Summary

This speech emphasizes the importance of handling both praise and criticism with maturity, humility, and patience, as taught in Islam. The speaker reminds us that all praise is a gift from Allah, and we should remain humble, while criticism should be viewed as an opportunity for self-reflection and growth. Drawing from the example of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who faced mockery without retaliation, the speech encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, control their words, and strive for personal development through challenges. Ultimately, it teaches that patience is a key to becoming a better individual.

Takeaways

• 😀 Praise can lead to pride or arrogance, so we should remain humble and remember that all abilities come from Allah.
• 😀 Don't get distracted or deceived by praise; instead, stay focused on maintaining sincerity in your actions.
• 😀 Criticism or insults, even from distant people or strangers, shouldn't affect your faith or confidence.
• 😀 The true evaluation of a person is by Allah's standards, not by the judgments of others.
• 😀 When faced with criticism, it's an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth, rather than retaliation or anger.
• 😀 The example of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) teaches us not to seek revenge but to pray for guidance and mercy for those who criticize us.
• 😀 Sabar (patience) in the face of adversity or criticism is not a defeat but a path to dignity and elevated character.
• 😀 Words have great power, and we should be mindful not to hurt others with our speech. Even though the tongue is unrestrained, it can cause deep harm.
• 😀 Islam teaches us to control our speech, as emphasized in the Hadith: 'Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent.'
• 😀 The challenges of insults and praise are tests for the believers, and we should respond with maturity and wisdom.
• 😀 In the context of education, both students and teachers should treat each other with respect and reflect on their own actions.

Q & A

What is the central theme of the sermon?

The central theme of the sermon is about wisely handling praise and criticism, and maturing in how we respond to both. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining humility in the face of praise and exercising patience when facing criticism.

Why should we not be overwhelmed by praise?

Praise can lead to feelings of arrogance or pride, which can harm our sincerity. The sermon reminds us that any abilities or achievements we have come from Allah, and we should not be swayed by praise to the point of becoming conceited.

What does the Quran say about the danger of feeling self-righteous?

In Surah An-Najm, verse 32, the Quran warns us not to feel self-righteous, as Allah knows best who is truly pious. This highlights the need for humility, even when we receive praise.

What lesson can we learn from the example of Prophet Muhammad regarding criticism?

Prophet Muhammad's response to criticism and insults, such as being mocked and even physically harmed, teaches us to remain patient and not to retaliate. Instead, he would pray for the guidance of those who criticized him.

How should we deal with criticism according to the sermon?

Rather than harboring resentment or seeking revenge, we should use criticism as an opportunity for self-reflection and improvement. We should pray for those who criticize us, asking Allah to guide them.

What does the Quran say about patience in the face of adversity?

The Quran in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:153) instructs the believers to seek Allah's help with patience and prayer, assuring that Allah is with those who are patient. Patience is portrayed as a key virtue that leads to dignity and spiritual growth.

What role does humility play in handling praise?

Humility is essential in handling praise because it prevents us from becoming arrogant or prideful. Recognizing that any positive qualities or success we have are from Allah helps us stay grounded and maintain sincerity.

How can we practice good conduct when faced with criticism in a professional or educational setting?

In a professional or educational setting, we should focus on self-improvement and handle criticism with maturity. Instead of reacting negatively, we should use the feedback constructively and maintain respect for others, including teachers and students.

What is the significance of the tongue, as mentioned in the sermon?

The sermon emphasizes that while the tongue is not physically bound, it can still cause great harm. Words can hurt others deeply, and we must be cautious of what we say, following the guidance of Prophet Muhammad to speak only with good intentions.

Why is it important to reflect on ourselves before criticizing others?

It is important to reflect on ourselves because we might be prone to criticizing others without recognizing our own faults. Self-introspection helps us develop empathy and avoid unjust judgments, leading to more constructive communication.