In a time that can be loosely defined as mediocre. There is a concept, a way of living that is the anti-thesis of the mediocrity of modernity. Lets discuss Ihsan & Arete.
Within the Islamic paradigm this is the concept of Ihsan. Ihsan is the apex of human development and should be sought after by all of us. However, this concept is not completely unheard of within the European tradition. Within the Western tradition there once existed the concept of Arete. I believe that this was the classical world’s attempt at achieving Ihsan, however diluted from the source it became.
What is Ihsan?
Ihsan is an Arabic term rooted in Islamic theology and spiritual practice, often translated as “excellence” or “perfection.” However, its meaning goes much deeper than this. It is an all encompassing reality consisting of performing acts and living with utmost sincerity and awareness of God. Ihsan represents the highest level of faith and spiritual consciousness, focusing on the purity of one’s intentions and actions, and it is a concept that permeates both personal and communal aspects of a Muslim’s life.
Ihsan in the Context of Islam
In Islam, faith (Eeman), practice (Islam) and holistic excellence (Ihsan) are interconnected. While Islam pertains to the exoteric acts of worship and Eeman to the esoteric Ihsan transcends both by integrating them into a holistic way of life that is characterised by sincere devotion, mindfulness of God and MORAL BEAUTY in every action.
The concept of Ihsan is famously discussed in the Hadith of Gabriel (Jibril, peace be upon him). In this narration, Gabriel PBUH visits the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and asks him about Islam, Eeman and Ihsan. Concerning Ihsan, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) replied:
“Ihsan is to worship Allah as if you see him, and if you do not see him, then indeed he sees you.”
This definition encapsulates the essence of Ihsan. Ihsan is ultimately an awareness of the presence of God. We humans are naturally forgetful, we slip into auto-pilot. Ihsan, perhaps is a removal of this faculty, a constant state of awareness. A person striving for Ihsan performs their duties not merely out of obligation but with a profound consciousness of God, seeking his pleasure in all that they do.
Ihsan in Daily Life
Ihsan is not limited to acts of worship such as prayer and fasting. It extends to every facet of human activity. In everyday life, Ihsan means striving for excellence in everything. For example, it can be practiced in relationships, social dealings and even in how we treat the environment. A person practicing Ihsan will go beyond the bare minimum and do things with sincerity, care and attention to detail.
For example, in business dealings you must remain honest and fair, even if it costs personal profit. In our family life, to treat your dependants and loved ones with Ihsan entails treating them with kindness, patience and understanding. In our communities it manifests as generosity, compassion and contributing positively to the welfare of others.
An interesting and somewhat unique aspect of Ihsan in it’s inward intention. Ihsan is not just about the external quality of actions but also the inward intention. All of your actions must be for God alone, when we do something we believe to be right, it must be coupled with the intention to please God. As we know, at times we are susceptible to expecting something in return, when we perform a good action. However, to truly achieve anything close to Ihsan, we must understand that God in is control of outcomes. Doing the right thing is an end within itself.
Ihsan as a Path
Ihsan represents a journey towards spiritual refinement and moral beauty. By focusing on God’s presence in every aspect of life, believers are encouraged to develop qualities like humility, patience, gratitude and compassion. This inner journey brings the believer closer to God and deepens their faith.
What is Arete?
Arete is a concept from ancient Greek philosophy and culture, often translated as “virtue” or “excellence.” However, like many Greek terms, it carries a depth that goes beyond these simple translations. In its original sense, arete refers to the pursuit of the highest potential in all aspects of life, encompassing moral virtue, intellectual excellence and physical prowess. To live with arete means striving to be the best version of oneself, not only personally but also collectively.
Arete in Greek Philosophy
The term arete plays a central role in Greek thought, particularly in the works of philosophers such as Plato, Aristotle and the pre-Socratic thinkers. It was initially tied to the idea of personal excellence in the context of warfare of athletic competition, but over time, the meaning of arete expanded to include intellectual and moral dimensions. For instance, for Socrates and Plato, arete is closely related to the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. Socrates believed that true arete could only be achieved through an understanding of what is good, emphasising that knowledge and virtue are inseparable. In Plato’s dialogues, arete is often discussed in relation to justice, courage, moderation and wisdom.
Aristotle, in his ethical works, particularly the “Nicomachean Ethics,” offers a detailed analysis of arete in terms of human virtues. He distinguishes between moral virtues, such as courage, temperance, generosity and intellectual virtues. Aristotle defines arete as the “mean” between extremes, arguing that the mean between cowardice and recklessness, while generosity if the balnce between wastefulness and stinginess. In this sense, arete involves us finding a balance in living. Living in accordance with reason, to achieve a flourishing life (eudaimonia).
Arete in Ancient Greek Culture
Beyond philosophy, arete was a core value in Greek culture, particularly concerning heroism and leadership. In Homer’s epics, such as the Iliad and the Odyssey, arete is a defining characteristic of the heroes. Achilles, for example, exemplifies physical arete through his unmatched prowess in battle, while Odysseus demonstrates mental and strategic arete through his cleverness and cunning.
In the context of Greek athletics and warfare, arete was often associated with physical excellence and bravery. The Greeks believed that personal excellence on the battlefield or in athletic competitions was a way to honour the gods, one’s family and one’s community. Olympic athletes and warriors were expected to embody arete by pushing their physical and mental limits to achieve victory and glory. However, as Greek society evolved, the Greeks began to also associate arete with intellectual and ethical qualities, highlighting the importance of a well-rounded excellence.
Arete and Eudaimonia
For the ancient Greeks, living a life of arete was the key to achieving eudaimonia. However, this is not just about personal pleasure of contentment. It is fulfilling one’s potential. As we can see, living with Arete was the method of achieving Eudaimonia. Therefore, to live with arete, according to both Plato and Aristotle, is to fulfill one’s purpose or “telos,” as a human being. This involves not only the cultivation of moral virtues but also the exercise of reason. The defining characteristic of humanity, according to the Greeks.
Arete in Modern Context
Though rooted in ancient Greek thought, the idea of arete has utmost relevance in a modern context. It speaks to the timeless pursuit of personal excellence within the European tradition. I find it interesting to see that this concept which is obviously refined and perfected in the form of Ihsan within the Islamic tradition, was observed, albeit in a diluted form within classical antiquity.
Ihsan & Arete
Ihsan and arete, in my opinion are closely related concepts. However Ihsan is a pure form of what can be defined as arete. Both concepts center on the idea of striving to achieve the highest form of human potential.
Pursuit of Excellence
At their core, both Ihsan and arete are about striving for excellence. A focus on continual self improvement is necessary. When we train in a modern gym, we are encouraged to focus on progressive overload. We aim to become that little bit stronger every time. This idea can be applied to all aspects of life and I feel as though this is a method of striving to attain excellence. For example, becoming at least 1% better everyday.
Moral and Ethical Foundations
Both concepts emphasise moral virtues. Ihsan calls for believers to act with compassion, humility and sincerity. Similarly, arete in Greek thought involves the cultivation of virtues like courage, wisdom and justice. For both, true excellence is not only about outward actions but also about the inner quality of one’s intentions and character.
Societal Contribution
Ihsan and arete also share a commitment to benefitting society. Ihsan encourages believers to not only perfect their own worship but to reflect that excellence in their treatment of others, fostering justice and compassion. Likewise, arete is about fulfilling one’s role in society, excelling in ways that contribute to the common good, reflecting a sense of responsibility toward others.
Ihsan as Arete Purified
As I have metnioned previously, arete is merely the remnants left of what once was the concept of Ihsan. Ihsan is a pure form of arete. It is the striving for excellence in all of your affairs. Increasingly and classical society developed the absence of the spiritual aspect surrounding excellence superseded what had been previously. However, understanding as striving to achieve Ihsan is a revival of the classical endeavour. Therefore, I suggest you embrace this struggle wholeheartedly and understanding that out tradition is not opposed to Islam. In actuality, Islam is a revival of what we lost.