The Definition and Scope of Futuwa
Futuwwa and civanimerlik (generosity and chivalry) are among the most virtuous levels within Islamic ethics. It’s not merely about performing acts of kindness, but about sharing in others’ sorrows, preferring a sibling even when one has their own needs. Fariduddin Attar summarizes Futuwa as “not arguing with the poor nor competing with the wealthy.” Civanimerlik involves bearing the burdens of the people, enduring their mistakes, and willingly spending what one possesses for their benefit. A Sufi traversing the spiritual path does not burden others; rather, they shoulder the community’s trials, thereby beautifying morality and reflecting divine light within their heart.
Covering Faults and Maintaining Confidentiality
A true civanimer does not investigate another’s faults but rather conceals them as if they were one’s own. The Most High (Allah) does not reveal the secrets of the civanimers, neither in this world nor in the hereafter; those who embody this character never disclose the secrets of others. They possess such immense burdens and compassion within their hearts that if these burdens were placed upon an ordinary creature, it would perish. One of the most beautiful qualities a person can possess is establishing a compassionate friendship. A person of irfan (gnosis) shows compassion to people, willingly fulfilling their requests and not burdening them with what they cannot carry.
The Pinnacle of Selfless Service
A defining characteristic of a civanimer is that they expect neither material nor spiritual benefit (not even reward) in return for their acts of kindness. They view worldly wealth with an eye of counsel rather than envy; and approach the poor with complete humility, not pride. The knowledge and secrets held within the hearts of the civanimers are also distinct from the common understanding; for this esoteric knowledge, hidden within the esoteric, is a special secret between the civanimers and Allah – there is no path to it for the general populace. Those who completely set aside their ego and prioritize their siblings wear the crown of Futuwa, attaining the highest stations of divine acceptance.