An interesting quote

Ibn Hazm al-Andalusi (rahimahullah) said:


Whoever is pleased with his courage, which he applies in matters that are not for the sake of Allaah, the Exalted, full of Majesty, should know that the tiger is braver than he, and that the lion, wolf, and elephant are more courageous than he.

Whoever is pleased with his bodily strength should know that the mule, bull, and elephant have stronger bodies. Whoever is pleased with his ability to lift weights should know that the donkey can lift heavier weights. Whoever is pleased with how fast he can run should know that the dog and rabbit are faster than he. Whoever is pleased with the beauty of his voice should know that many birds sing more beautifully than he and that the winds in the wood sound sweeter than he.

Hence, what sort of pride or pleasure should one feel in traits in which the animals excel more than he does?

But the one whose mind is strong, whose knowledge is broad, and whose deeds are good should feel true happiness, because he is surpassed in these matters only by the angels and the best of men.


(al-Akhlaq wa'l-Siyar)