Allah said, “He who created death and life to test as to which of you is best (ahsan) in deed.” [67:2] Ihsan is the essence of life. It is to grow, to aspire high, to develop skills and talents. It is overcome challenges, to contribute and to lead. It is to be the best you can possibly be and to do the most you can possibly do.

The Arabic word "ihsan" is a collective term that embodies all types of goodness. The words ‘excellence or best’—common translations for ihsan—fail to convey its breadth and depth. Ihsan includes (but is not restricted to) beauty, completeness, mastery, deliberation, wisdom, endurance, sacrifice, care and generosity. It also introduces the idea of being a pioneer and a leader in any field. All of this stems from two basic meanings of the word ihsan: (1) to do an action well and (2) to benefit and/or be charitable to others.