are you a GENTLEMAN?

GENTLEMAN

Today, we use the word 'gentleman' very casually, without understanding the depth in its meaning. Any audiences, large or small, are addressed by the terms ladies and gentlemen. On looking at the real deep meaning of the word 'gentleman' we realize how carelessly we use it. The word 'gentleman' has evolved over a long time. The word is associated with esteemed values and principles that should be possessed by a man to be called a gentleman. The connotation of the word 'gentleman' has changed over time. It once implied a man of conduct, a man of virtue while it has become an everyday word of the present times.

Characteristics of a Gentleman

Being a gentleman does not depend on the social standing of a man but more how his loyalty to his religion. Religion formed human's behavior and it is his behavior, which makes him a gentleman. According to an old story, a woman had requested the king to make her son a gentleman. The king had replied to her saying that he would only be able to make him a nobleman and only God would be able to make him a gentleman. During the Shakespearean Era, a man who bore a coat of arms was considered a gentleman. During the olden days, wearing a sword was one of the visible characteristics of gentlemen.

With the introduction of Islam, certain characteristics began to be associated with gentlemen. A gentleman was supposed to hold good moral values and be loyal and pious. A man who sought justice and always stood by humaneness with the right path was considered a gentleman.

With the passing time, the word 'gentleman' began to be linked to a wider range of characteristics. Today, one may associate a gentleman with gentleness. But the real significance of the word was a man's characteristic of gentility. A gentleman is one who treats others, especially WOMEN with RESPECT. It is he who bears great regard towards womanhood. It is he who understands her and TREATS HER HONORABLY. A gentleman is characterized by his courtesy and concern towards women. He gives ladies their due respect and acts with humility. It’s the decency in a man's behavior that characterizes him as a gentleman.

A gentleman is someone who does not take an undue advantage of his power or the weaknesses of those around him. He is a man who does not compel others to do anything against their wish. A gentleman never offends others physically or mentally. He never inflicts pain. In a broader sense of the term, a gentleman is the one who cares for the people around him, helps them with their problems and strives to remove every obstacle that impedes their lives. Easing and comforting everyone around remains the major concern of a gentleman. He is a thoughtful and has foresight. His wisdom helps him stay away from blunders.

Other characteristics of a gentleman include his humbleness, his prudence, his calm, his patience and his principles. A gentleman never boasts of himself. He is merciful and tender. He can keep his cool in all types of situations. He never looks at people with prejudiced eyes. He refrains from getting into conflicts or debates. He keeps himself away from badmouthing people and making unreasonable allegations. He dislikes gossip.

Above all, a gentleman bases his thoughts and actions on healthy philosophical principles. He submits to pain and understands that certain things in life are inevitable. He accepts death as a part of destiny. He adheres to righteousness throughout life.

Now think for yourself, how many 'gentlemen' do you know?