Forms of Arrogance and Means of Purification
In the April issue of Nahnu-Ansarullah, I wrote where the Promised Messiahعلیہ السلام emphasized to not make him an idol and after that he describes forms of arrogance and means of purifications. He says:
“It is easy for a person to discard the principal vices, but some vices are so subtle and hidden that one is not normally conscious of them, and even when one becomes conscious of them it is difficult to discard them. For instance, typhoid which is a severe illness and a high fever can be treated immediately with appropriate remedies, but tuberculosis which works its mischief out of sight is very difficult of treatment. Such are these subtle and hidden vices which keep a person from achieving exalted ranks”. (Essence of Islam, volume II, page 358)
In this paragraph the Promised Messiahعلیہ السلام makes a point that the major vices are easier to discard because they are visible to others and to oneself as well if he/she is looking for to reform or repent. Vices are defined as “immoral and evil behaviours” and most of the time one cannot recognize them except with deep, self-analysis. If other people point them out then natural reaction is to go into a self-defence mode. One may respond by saying, nobody is perfect or look into your own “greeban” meaning look into yourself.
Hidden and subtle vices are difficult to identify and discard and the examples of typhoid fever and tuberculosis are very remarkable to understand the point. Identifying and discarding such subtle vices can only be done when a strong belief in God who created us and gave us the capabilities and capacities and also gave us the freedom to choose.
I remember as a young man when got introduced to the Conditions of Bai’at, it was such a good tool for self-analysis and evaluation. I became aware many of my short comings which actually means that God made me aware of them. The point is that once becomes aware of one’s vices and virtues, then corrective measures can be taken for a better and peaceful journey of life.
“The Promised Messiahعلیہ السلام continues: “They are moral vices which cause disruption in social life. Slight differences generate rancour, hatred, jealousy, hypocrisy and arrogance and a brother begins to look down upon a brother”. (Essence of Islam, Volume II, page 358)
The above narrative by Promised Messiahعلیہ السلام is also full of wisdom. As a unit of society, we cannot live in isolation, so many moral vices cause disruptions in social life. It is like saying that “one bad fish spoils the whole pond”. Slight differences become bigger issues if they are not taken in proper context and discussed. I have seen that sometimes very trivial issues like food is not good, or the taste is not like my mother’s dinner and similar have resulted in hatred, rancour and ultimately divorce.
