As we go about our daily lives, we seldom take time to reflect on the patterns in The Almighty’s creation. Spring of each year comes alive with new growth. Trees sprout new buds that develop into leaves. Plants that were bare, spindly sticks grow green stems and new flowers, and the males of many species start to look favorably toward their females. 

Toward the end of the year, the landscape shows patterns of dormancy. Trees and plants shed their annual growth, animals prepare for cooler days and cold nights, and our beautiful lawns turn brown. 

Just as the Almighty has established patterns in His natural environment, He has also established patterns by which we are to govern our lives. In scripture, we find the following.  “So set your face steadily and truly to the Faith: Establish The Almighty’s handiwork, according to the pattern on which He has made mankind.” (Qur’an 30:30). 

This verse reminds us to direct our efforts and activities in a way that is pleasing to The Almighty. Remember Him much in our worship and devotion.

Also, we find,” In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity (seriousness), sincerity.”(Titus 2:7).

The central idea in this verse is the Divine displeasure with corruption. We are encouraged to be serious and sincere representatives of His pattern of human life.

These two verses provide a plain, simple message for humanity. If we want to receive guidance and blessings from our Creator, we must follow His pattern for human excellence. We should establish our lives based on honesty, and just treatment towards others in our hearts and follow His Divine guidance. 

Another important aspect of this Divine injunction is that we must be tolerant of individual differences. Historically this has been problematic in human society. All of God’s prophets and messengers possessed the characteristics mentioned and established for humanity an excellent pattern of conduct.

Our representative leadership should also be guided by these Divine dictates; if we truly are “One Nation Under God.” If on the other hand, governmental rule is established on racial, economic, political partitioning, greed, and self-interest competing for control, then the society suffers.

Let us remind one another that we “have indeed in the Messenger of God a beautiful pattern (of conduct) for anyone whose hope is in The Almighty and the Last Day.” (Qur’an 33:21).

QADIR ABDUS-SABUR, PH.D. is an Imam at the Islamic Center of Prince Edward. His email address is qas1944@gmail.com.