kh-y-r

Description

The Arabic root خير (kh-y-r) fundamentally conveys the concept of goodness, excellence, and that which is superior or preferable in both material and moral dimensions. In the Quranic context, this root appears in various forms to describe beneficial deeds, righteous actions, ethical choices, and divine blessings, often contrasted with evil (sharr) to emphasize moral distinctions and guide believers toward virtue. The root's significance lies in its comprehensive application to both worldly and spiritual prosperity, making it central to Islamic ethics by defining what is truly valuable and worthy of pursuit, whether referring to good deeds that benefit one's afterlife, material provisions that are lawful and beneficial, or the comparative superiority of God's guidance over human desires.