We define representation as the embodiment of the values one believes in and the practice of what one preaches. Representation is one of the essential qualities of the great Prophets. Just as the Prophets conveyed the Divine revelation they received from God to the people, they also exemplified it in their own lives in the best possible manner. They taught people servitude to God and meticulously practiced every act of worship and obedience. The acceptance of the religion brought by the Prophets was significantly influenced not only by their preaching but also by their representation. It can even be said that, in this regard, their representation preceded their preaching. Indeed, representation is the most crucial means for preaching to achieve its goal. Therefore, those who follow the path of the Prophets must first embody the values they believe in if they desire these values to be accepted by their audience.

A believer’s representation must always take precedence over their preaching. They must live out two or three times what they advocate in their practical life. Prophet Muhammad, the Pride of Humanity (peace and blessings be upon him), lived out perhaps ten times the obligations he enjoined upon others. This is why he inspired trust in those around him, and his words resonated with people’s consciences. No matter how eloquent one may be, like Firdausi, Jamī, or Rumi, one cannot be as convincing as the power of representation. The Qur’an gives an important warning to believers with the verse, “O you who have believed, why do you say what you do not do?” In essence, this means, “Do not say what you do not practice.” In fact, it means, “If you say it, then live it and apply it in your practical life”.

Heroes of Representation Who Remind People of God

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) stated in a hadith that a believer is someone who reminds others of God when seen. What an extraordinary criterion this is for evaluating a person’s servitude! A believer should embody and represent the truths they believe in so fully and visibly—through their demeanor, actions, heart, and outward appearance—that anyone who sees them is reminded of God. Today, although many people study the divine orders in nature, advance in sciences, and acquire knowledge, very few truly live by what they believe. People encounter few examples in this regard. Those who appear to be Muslims often do not bring their beliefs into their lives. However, the real issue is representation—being a role model.

You may create excellent philosophical systems. You may author literary works. You may write on various sciences. You may deliver eloquent speeches. You may compose utopias. But unless you live out the words that flow from your pen or your mouth, you cannot reach hearts or have a lasting impact. Indeed, many utopias have been created, many eloquent words have been spoken, and many philosophies have been developed, yet none of these have led to a world based on them. However, the Divine message brought by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) presented an example far beyond what is described in utopias and has continued to influence the world to this day. It still resonates with the dead souls of our time, who have distanced themselves from spirituality and are ultimately lost to oblivion. This is because he was an “uswa hasana“, a perfect example in every aspect.

You may create excellent philosophical systems, author literary works, write on various sciences, deliver eloquent speeches, or compose utopias. But unless you live out the words that flow from your pen or your mouth, you cannot reach hearts or have a lasting impact. Indeed, many utopias have been created, many eloquent words have been spoken, and many philosophies have been developed, yet none of these have led to a world based on them. However, the Divine message brought by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) presented an example far beyond what is described in utopias and has continued to influence the world to this day. It still resonates with the dead souls of our time, who have distanced themselves from spirituality and are ultimately lost to oblivion. This is because he was an uswa hasana—a perfect example in every aspect.

Being Inspiring

The decline in the power of representation is the main reason for our loss spanning five, or in some sense, eight centuries. Although there were strong representatives of faith during the early periods of the Ottoman and Seljuk empires, as well as among the Ayyubids, Zengids, and Ilkhanids, these figures were not long-lasting. Over time, representation weakened, leading to an eventual collapse that left us crushed under our own ruins. As Bediuzzaman expressed, we became like “moving graves.” Consequently, the impact of our faith diminished. At this point, our duty is to revive Islam by living it fully, uncompromisingly, and in a way that captivates others.

We should not be ashamed of our Islamic identity. There is nothing to be embarrassed about in our prayers, supplications, way of thinking, or beliefs. Engaging in dialogue with others, shaking hands, or sharing a meal should not harm our representation. We must first internalize the beauty of our religion, rectify any shortcomings, and then represent these values in every environment. Only then will we be convincing and inspire trust in those we interact with. We must remember that a dozen heroic representatives who firmly believe and fully live out their beliefs will be far more impactful than a thousand eloquent speakers or writers.

If we think that by resembling others we will appear more agreeable to them and win their favor, we are mistaken. Those who act with this mindset will face consequences contrary to their intentions. Instead of admiring others, we should strive to be inspiring through our own way of life. If we are to admire something, it should be our own values. We must be determined to be ourselves and remain true to who we are. If we can achieve this—genuinely represent our values and maintain a strong immunity to negative outside influences—then we need not worry about engaging with others. In this case, with God’s permission, we will not suffer any losses. Those who fear otherwise may close themselves off entirely, sealing their doors and windows, and condemning themselves to a narrow and airless existence. But why should we narrow the vastness that God has opened before us?

Sincerity and Genuineness in Representation

If we want the values we believe in to resonate deeply in people’s hearts, we must represent them authentically and ensure they manifest in our behavior. However, even in this endeavor, we must avoid artificiality and forced behavior. If we set out with the intention of showcasing our good qualities to others, the impact of our representation diminishes. When actions are taken with the aim of presenting a favorable image, there is a risk of hypocrisy and ostentation, which undermines sincerity. The essence of true representation lies in avoiding the pitfalls of self-expression and allowing any virtues we possess to naturally and sincerely flow from our actions and behaviors.

In some cases, when deliberate intent and will are involved, the spirit of sincerity can be extinguished. For instance, humility and modesty are among the most important virtues a believer should possess. However, the key is for humility to become an intrinsic part of one’s nature and to be reflected naturally in one’s actions and behaviors as part of the flow of life. Such a person does not need to make a special effort to appear humble; this quality will naturally be reflected in their conduct. Otherwise, the intention to be humble can destroy humility itself. If even a little willfulness enters into one’s actions, the spirit of those actions is lost. The same applies to other virtues related to good character. The true goal is to internalize these virtues and make them the voice of our inner self. When this is achieved, even those who do not know you will be influenced by your presence.

A person should internalize the truths they believe in so deeply that these truths become the true color and pattern of their nature, guiding them to always walk the same path and respond consistently. There should be no contradictions or inconsistencies in their behavior. Whether you are aware of it or not, the people around you will test you throughout your life. They will observe your behavior over a long period and form their judgments accordingly. Consider that even the polytheists testified to the reliability of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). They observed him closely for forty years and never witnessed him making a false statement or engaging in improper behavior. The perfect representation of the Prophet melted the hardest of hearts, softened the most callous souls, and brought even the most obstinate individuals to their knees.

Similarly, today’s advocates and guides of faith must strive with all their might to embody the values they believe in, living as paragons of integrity and purity. Those who reach this level of character instill trust and confidence in those around them. Their words are heeded, and those who see them say, “These are people worth following.” Even when Islam is only partially represented, we see the impact it has on those who encounter it. If it were represented in its entirety, who knows how many hearts would be won over? If we could rid ourselves of lies, hypocrisy, pretentiousness, and double-faced behavior—even from our thoughts and imaginations—and live a life of absolute integrity, the promise mentioned in Surah an-Nasr would manifest in all its glory.