Luqman: Counsel for a child

It is recounted that wisdom was given to Luqman and that he was asked to be grateful to Allah. Then, it transitions to the advice he gave his son. First, he tells him not to associate partners with Allah and states that this is a great injustice. The discourse proceeds through the words of a father speaking directly to his child.

The verses also remind one of kindness toward parents; the hardship and effort of the mother in carrying the child are commemorated. However, it is stated that if they force one to associate partners with Allah, one should not obey them in this matter. Nevertheless, it is requested that one treats them well in worldly life. The responsibility of faith and the maintenance of human relationships are addressed within the same framework.

Luqman says that even the smallest action, if it were within a rock, in the heavens, or on the earth, would not be hidden from Allah’s knowledge. He then advises to perform prayer, to seek good, to stand against evil, and to show endurance in the face of what happens. Thus, a connection is established between inner responsibility and outward behavior.

The final pieces of advice include not turning one's cheek away from people out of arrogance and not walking on the earth with pride. It is requested to be moderate in walking and to lower one's voice. In this part, the story descends from the great principles of faith to the seemingly small details of daily behavior. Wisdom is seen not merely as possessing knowledge, but as being able to carry that knowledge in relationships and attitudes.