Khulq
Definition
Khulq — singular of akhlaq — refers to a settled, stable disposition of the heart that produces habitual patterns of action without requiring deliberate decision-making. Al-Ghazali argues that character traits are neither purely innate nor purely chosen: they are formed through the repeated practice of specific actions over time, until the action becomes natural and the deliberate effort is no longer required. This is both the challenge and the hope of riyadha: the virtues feel unnatural and effortful at first, but consistent practice gradually transforms them into second nature — the person of good character does not deliberate about being honest; honesty is simply what they do.
As understood in the classical tradition of Imam al-Ghazali and the scholars of his school.
Appears in
1 book in the library
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