SEVEN VIRTUES SPRING UP FROM WISDOM (HIKMAT) (I)

1– The first is intellect. It is a faculty, a habit (malaka). Through the help of this, one deduces unknown things from the known ones. One can pool together the proofs and then reach a conclusion about the researched topic. Developing this faculty requires studying the subject which teaches how to arrive at a conclusion about unknown facts by analogy from the known ones, in addition to an ability to solve problems of mathematics and geometry.

Human beings possess varying degrees of intelligence. The highest degree of intelligence is called genius. Intelligence is measured by testing. One of the famous psychiatrists of the twentieth century, American Terman [Terman was still alive in 1380 Hijrî, 1960 A.D. while this book was being written] says that historically the measurement of intelligence through tests was first performed by Ottoman Turks. Ottoman armies were moving through Europe, conquering one country after another. They were at the doorsteps of Vienna. They knew that if they conquered Vienna, it would be easy to conquer the rest of Europe. The Ottomans were bringing Islamic civilization to Europe. Lights of knowledge, learning, and ethics were illuminating the countries that had been darkened by Christianity, and were spreading vitality, humanity, peace, and happiness. For centuries, Europeans had been enslaved by dictators, capitalists, and clergy and had become barbarians. With the introduction of Islamic justice, knowledge, and ethics, Europeans were being liberated and enjoying human rights. But, the dictators and especially the Christian clergy were putting their last efforts against the Ottoman armies. One night, Great Britain’s chancellor in Istanbul sent his historic letter to London. In his letter he wrote: Eureka!...Eureka!..! I have discovered the reason for the success of the Ottoman armies. I have found the way to stop the advancement of their armies. He also wrote as follows: