What is the difference between adab (proper conduct) and akhlaq (character), and does good adab fall under the saying of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him): “The closest of you to me in status on the Day of Resurrection…”?

The questioner:
May Allah reward you, Honorable Shaykh. This questioner asks: What is the difference between adab and akhlaq? And does good adab fall under the saying of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him): “The closest of you to me in status on the Day of Resurrection are those with the best character”?

The Shaykh:
Yes, character is adab; it is the same thing. Adorning oneself with noble character and honorable traits—these are the adab. Yes.

The presenter:
May Allah reward you, our brother.

The Shaykh:
Adab, or call it character? It is one meaning. But when character is mentioned in general, it implies a broad-mindedness. The hadith means that a person should be broad-minded with his brothers, accommodating them with his character, being gentle with them, and being kind to them. Yes.