In the Mosibat Nameh, Attar of Nishapur presents the story of Hatim al-Ta'i's brother, who aspires to replicate Hatim's legendary generosity (jood). However, their mother explains that true generosity cannot be merely imitated or acquired through superficial effort because it is an innate, divinely bestowed quality.

To illustrate this, she contrasts their behavior as infants:

• Hatim's Innate Altruism: As a baby, Hatim refused to nurse from one breast unless another hungry child was nursing from the other, showing a natural desire to share and care for others from birth.
• The Brother's Innate Selfishness: In contrast, Hatim's brother would refuse to nurse if another child was present, greedily holding onto the other breast to prevent anyone else from sharing.

Spiritual Significance

This allegory serves as a commentary on the nature of spiritual virtues (akhlaq). Attar emphasizes that:

1. Divine Bestowal vs. Imitation: Genuine virtues are deeply rooted in a person'...