Shaykh Hammad Mustafa al-Madani al-Qadri deliveres his first keynote lecture on “Introduction to Futuwwa (Chivalry) and the Concept of Adab”

Shaykh Hammad Mustafa al-Madani al-Qadri delivered his first keynote lecture titled: “Introduction to Futuwwa (Chivalry) and the Concept of Adab”. This marked the beginning of the enlightening series, “The Spirit of Chivalry in the 21st Century,” as part of the Grand Mawlid Camp. Shaykh Hammad Mustafa Qadri began by emphasising that before embarking on the journey of knowledge, one must first attain Adab (etiquette and good manners). He explained that Adab stems from the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet ﷺ, serving as the foundation for all spiritual and worldly pursuits. Without Adab, acts of worship may lack acceptance by Allah.

Shaykh Hammad Mustafa Qadri explained that true worship requires reverence, purity, and humility. When standing in prayer, one must imagine being in the presence of the King of Kings, reflecting on His majesty and attributes. Without this level of Adab, even years of worship can be rendered fruitless, as was exemplified by Iblis, who was cast out of proximity to Allah due to arrogance and a violation of Adab. Conversely, even the lowest of people can be elevated through Adab, as seen in the story of the magicians during the time of Sayyiduna Musa عليه السلام. Despite their initial disbelief, their reverence toward Musa عليه السلام before the confrontation led to their guidance and elevation.

Shaykh Hammad Mustafa Qadri also illustrated that Adab extends beyond worship to how we interact with others. Shaykh Hammad Mustafa Qadri highlighted the importance of delicacy of thought and consideration for others’ feelings, recounting the example of a great saint who demonstrated Adab by accepting a gift from another scholar, despite personal discomfort, in order to honour the giver and avoid causing him embarrassment. This act of humility and sensitivity exemplified how Adab fosters respect and harmony. Shaykh Hammad Mustafa al-Madani al-Qadri narrated another story about three great scholars who were sentenced to death due to false accusations. When one of them stepped forward to sacrifice his life for his companions, it demonstrated the ultimate act of Adab and chivalry—prioritising the well-being of others over one’s own life. This act of selflessness moved the judge and the caliph, leading to the scholars’ release. Shaykh Hammad Mustafa Qadri explained that such acts of self-sacrifice embody the principles of Futuwwa (chivalry), where a person sacrifices not just material possessions but also pride, honour, and even life for the sake of others and Allah.

Shaykh Hammad Mustafa al-Madani al-Qadri elaborated on the key qualities of Futuwwa: generosity, noble manners, and self-sacrifice. He described how Futuwwa teaches individuals to place the needs of their brothers above their own, showing mercy, compassion, and kindness at all times. In a world driven by self-interest and competition, Futuwwa serves as a counterbalance, reminding believers that another’s gain is not a loss but a shared victory. Shaykh Hammad Mustafa Qadri highlighted the importance of developing a pure and generous spirit, where one is not only content with giving but finds honour in it. Drawing from the examples of saints and scholars, Shaykh Hammad Mustafa Qadri emphasised the transformative power of Adab. He explained that maintaining Adab brings one closer to Allah and enables one to achieve the presence of Allah. Those who practise Adab are like those who ascend spiritual ladders, while those who neglect it risk undoing their progress and being cast down.

Shaykh Hammad Mustafa Qadri concluded by stating that the ultimate aim of those travelling toward Allah is not paradise but His presence. This lofty goal, he said, can only be achieved through Adab. The lecture ended with a reminder that the path of Futuwwa and Adab requires constant vigilance, humility, and selflessness, ensuring that every action reflects the values of chivalry, generosity, and reverence.