Spread Coolness Like the Ice

Just as ice spreads coolness in the environment, a believer should likewise be a source of comfort rather than a source of trouble to people around him.

The Prophet is reported to have said: “When one person met another and did not eat or drink anything, it was as if he had met a dead person.” (Kashful Khifa 2493)

The obvious meaning of this tradition is that when anyone meets another, he is offered something, even if it is only some dates or a glass of water. At the time of meeting, offering something to drink or eat is a matter of social etiquette. Everyone does so, be he rich or poor, big or small, man or woman. This dissipates away any feeling of strangeness and the two people are brought close together.

But the real spirit of this prophetic saying is that everyone should be the well-wisher of others. When he talks to someone, he should be pleasant and speak well of him. When he gives a message to anyone, it should be clear and well-intentioned.

It has been said that at all times, a person emanates something of himself. It is like ice spreading coolness in the environment, or fire generating warmth on a cold night. Similarly, a person at every moment gives off something of himself. This phenomenon may occur consciously or unconsciously. Now the sincere person’s task is to remain positive about doing this. Just as ice spreads coolness in the environment, he should likewise be a source of comfort rather than a source of trouble.

Once one’s social instincts have been aroused, one will, of course, be amiable towards others. When anyone meets such a person, he will find it a pleasant experience. He will feel that he has passed through a valley of flowers without thorns.