The Characteristics of a Believer

Allah then mentions, as is usual, a number of points on the difference between those who do good and those who do otherwise. The verses from verse 19 onwards treat of the characteristics of a believer, and then describe the believers' ultimate end, and do so in a most beautiful way. Allah says:

These are all characteristics of the believers. To summarise what they are, and then what those who possess them ultimately receive: these are the ahl al-taqwā, the people of taqwā, and some eight to ten characteristics can be gleaned from the verses.

First, they fulfil their covenants and oaths: their promises they always keep, and they do not trifle with them. Second, whatever connections Allah has commanded to be maintained, such as those with relatives, and whatever relationships He has commanded to be kept, they are very particular about them. Many people have difficulty with this, and they should understand that it is something which detracts from their being good believers. Third, they fear their Lord. Fourth, they fear the ḥisāb, the accounting on the Day of Judgement. For the sake of Allah (swt) they exercise a great deal of ṣabr — and ṣabr is a theme that recurs constantly here. Next, they are establishers of the prayer, aqāmū al-ṣalāh. Next, they spend from what Allah has provided them, openly and in secret — they spend in every way. And next, they repel evil with good.