emotional intelligence in islam

Emotional Intelligence in Islam: The Prophetic Model for Leadership, Life, and Success

January 13, 2026 | | Shariah

Introduction:

Emotional Intelligence (EI) has become a key subject in modern psychology, leadership, and organizational behavior. Researchers (such as Goleman, John D. Mayer and Peter Salovey) highlight that the ability to understand and manage emotions is often more important than intellectual intelligence (IQ) for success in life, leadership, and teamwork.
However, as Muslims, we recognize that the concept of emotional intelligence is not new. Long before contemporary science emphasized its importance, the Qur’an, Sunnah, and the noble character of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) had already demonstrated the highest form of emotional intelligence more than 1,400 years ago.
This blogpost explores how Islam embeds emotional intelligence in its teachings, drawing from the Qur’an, Hadith, and examples from the Prophet’s life, and how these lessons can be applied in personal life, leadership, and the corporate world.
 

Emotional Intelligence in the Qur’an:

The Qur’an emphasizes empathy, compassion, patience, and self-control — all core components of emotional intelligence.

Emotional Awareness and Empathy 

Allah S.W.T says:
“And be humble with them out of mercy, and pray, ‘My Lord! Be merciful to them as they raised me in my childhood.” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:24)

This verse highlights empathy towards parents by recognizing their sacrifices and responding with humility and mercy.

Self-Control and Emotional Regulation 

Allah S.W.T also says:
“…and those who restrain anger and who pardon the people – and Allah loves those who act with excellence” (Surah Āl-‘Imrān, 3:134)

Here, Allah praises those who manage emotions, particularly anger — which can cloud judgment and harm relationships — while practicing forgiveness.

Emotional Intelligence in the Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ)

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) embodied emotional intelligence in every aspect of his life. His interactions show empathy, patience, emotional balance, and the ability to transform hearts through compassion.
 

Empathy with the Companion Who Felt Inferior 

A man once told the Prophet (ﷺ): “I am a man who is black and ugly. Will someone like me also enter Jannah?” The Prophet (ﷺ) responded with reassurance:
“Indeed, in the sight of Allah, it is not your appearance or color that matters, but your heart and your deeds.” (Sahih Muslim, 2564)
This dignified and compassionate response healed the man’s insecurity, showing the Prophet’s ﷺ ability to uplift others emotionally.
 

Balanced Grief at the Death of Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) Son Ibrahim 

When his infant son Ibrahim passed away, the Prophet ﷺ shed tears. When asked about it, he replied:
“The eyes shed tears, the heart feels sorrow, but the tongue does not say except what pleases Allah. Indeed, this is mercy.” (Sahih Bukhari: 1303)
This illustrates emotional balance — expressing grief naturally without losing control or uttering words of displeasure.
 

Transforming Desires with Wisdom 

A young man asked permission to commit zina (fornication). Instead of scolding him, the Prophet (ﷺ) calmly asked whether he would like it for his mother, daughter, sister, or aunt. Each time, the man said “No.” The Prophet (ﷺ) then prayed for him:
“O Allah, forgive his sins, purify his heart, and guard his chastity.” (Musnad Ahmad: 22211)
The man never again turned to sinful desires, showing how empathy and reason transformed him more effectively than anger would have.
 

Emotional Intelligence in Leadership and Corporate Life

The lessons of emotional intelligence are not limited to personal conduct, they are essential for leadership and organizational success.
 

Leadership with Compassion 

The Qur’an says:
“So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were gentle with them. And if you had been rude and harsh in heart, they would have dispersed from around you.” (Surah Al-Imran, 3:159)
This verse reflects the essence of emotional intelligence in leadership: gentleness attracts hearts, while harshness pushes people away. Leaders who understand emotions inspire loyalty, motivate teams, and foster unity.
 

Corporate and Workplace Ethics 

In professional settings, emotional intelligence helps avoid unnecessary conflicts, resolve disputes, and build supportive environments. Leaders who lose patience or pressure employees without empathy damage trust and productivity. Following the Prophetic model, patience, gentleness, and understanding ensure healthier workplaces.
 

Teamwork and Collaboration 

Emotional intelligence enables colleagues to support one another, especially during stress or crisis. A single act of empathy can turn workplace pressure into teamwork and growth.
 

Conclusion: Emotional Intelligence as Sunnah

Emotional Intelligence is not just a modern psychological concept — it is deeply rooted in Islam and embodied by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. From his empathy with individuals to his patience in grief, from his wise leadership to his compassionate teaching, he remains the best model of emotional intelligence.
In our families, workplaces, and communities, practicing emotional intelligence means managing our own emotions, understanding others, and responding with wisdom and mercy. For leaders, this quality is not optional — it is essential.
May Allah grant us the wisdom to follow the emotional intelligence of our beloved Prophet ﷺ, making us compassionate leaders, supportive teammates, and empathetic family members. Āmīn.
 

References

  • Al-Qur’an, Surah Al-Isra 17:24; Surah Āl-‘Imrān 3:134, 3:159
  • Al-Bukhari, M. ibn I. (d. 256 AH). Sahih al-Bukhari. Beirut: Mussasa al-Risalah, 2018.
  • Al Muslim, M. ibn H. (d. 261 AH). Sahih al Muslim. Dar al Tiba’a al Amira. 1433 AH.
  • Ahmad ibn Hanbal. (d. 241 AH). Musnad Ahmad. Beirut: Mussasa al-Risalah, 2001.
  • Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Bantam Books
  • Al-Ghazali, A. H. (2015). Ihya Ulum al-Din. Dar al-Minhaj — highlighting empathy and patience in Islamic character