Chapter 14: Treachery

This summary will be different, two quotes will be shared on the chapter take away that I feel do a good job at highlighting some of the leading thoughts in regards to the topic of treachery, with this light intro.

The topic of treachery is explored as a character trait which neglects rights, honesty and trust. Interested in sharing your thoughts? Please email: [email protected].

The excerpts:

1.

" Those Who accustom themselves to the serious fulfillment of their duties and take their obligations to Allah and society seriously, add to the happiness of others and help them succeed in their affairs. They also acquire the trust of others and triumph in the field of life." (p.190)

2.

Chapter: Breach of Promise

Various Responsibilities

The Importance of Vows and Disadvantages of Violating Them

Islam Prohibits Breach of Promises

The first section of this chapter speaks about how responsibilities are simply a part of our nature once we sense what is right and wrong. We sense care to maintain order and be responsible with what is right which in turn is beneficial to our own selves as we progress and build with our freedom. Freely believing and doing what we are told is not being responsible. Learning and understanding with reason, is part of responsibility.

Following lusts and selfish desires in the name of "freedom", is actually abhorrent and a neglect of the rights of one's self. Are lusts and desires goals, or do they matter to be navigated? Goals have to do with a higher destination and aiming to improve one's self with learning and applying that learning (for it to be truly "learnt").

One's nature comes in fulfilling vows he has made. We can follow this natural instinct, and see that across the globe, regardless of faith or culture, there is a commonality to be honest with one's decisions and words - to maintain one's vows.

In Islam breach of promises is prohibited. Quoted from the book: "The success of human societies is totally dependent upon the unity of its members. Therefore, it is of special importance that every person conduct his life according to the fundamentals of truth and righteousness, and wholeheartedly endeavours to refrain from any action that may cause dissention or disunity."

Also quoted:

Chapter 12: Anger

Advantages of Self-Control

The Diverse Consequences of Anger

Guidance from the Leaders of Religion

Advantages of Self-Control

Our strength in character comes from our ability to think and reason. Anger debilitates our moral compass; it debilitates our ability to reason and grotesquely hinders us from peace, creativity, ideas, thought or thinking.

“A strong will is a determining factor in a happy life; it allows man to resist events which can have influential consequences on his life.” (p.165)

The Diverse Consequences of Anger

Consequences are a multitude, some being inability to make good action, due to poor reason; and quickly as one gets anger, one becomes regretful once they have calmed down again; “The veil of anger blinds the mind and can turn a man into an animal which lacks any realization of reality”. (p.167)

Guidance from the Leaders of Religion

Chapter 11: Enmity and Hatred

Why Should We Not Forgive?

Setbacks Caused by Enmity

Imam Al-Sajjad’s Reaction to Those Who Mistreated Him

Why Should We Not Forgive?

Social relations are necessary for the success of people as individuals and for the progress and functioning of society - also being one of the biggest factors related to a person's success in development/progress.

Seldom it is found people of consistent and positive stable natures, most people have slips or make mistakes and forgiveness is key and important for maintaining good relations and a progressive society.

“Confessions are an essential part in everlasting and deep-rooted peace.” (p.151)

The ones who forgive, are the ones practicing a reflection of great strength, courage and strength variations.

Being able to forgive gives one heightened spiritual peace and tranquility, and symbiosis of heart and mind.

Those whose forgiveness excels continuously eventually become a mercy for others or on the earth.

Forgiveness also contributes to the higher chance of transformation by the enemy, “affects the enemy’s feelings, which creates speedy transformation in his thinking and conduct.” (p.152)

“...With forgiveness we are able to defeat our enemies without fighting, and force them to be humble towards us.” (p.153)

Setbacks Caused by Enmity

Hatred and Enmity comes from “the power of anger” (p.153) - it is a disease in the heart and opposite from the goodness, psychological balance and peace of forgiveness.

If one takes action from this great kind of extended anger, they can do something so evil that will take a toll on their conscience and hurt their mind and soul for long runs to come.

Those who get angry easily are not good with receiving feedback, and reflect lack of maturity.

Some suffer from complexes of ‘insignificance’, and get angry easily. This likely had stemmed from childhood trauma or negative experiences. The way for them to abandon the evils of anger and afflicting harm on others, is “the observance of sacred goals in life” (p.155), “Because, he who purifies his soul and manners, and disregards all other goals, will then disregard mistreatment by others.”

Imam Sajjad’s Reaction to Those Who Mistreated Him

The story of what al-Muthanna did, insulting the Imam, and how he referenced 1:134 from the Qur’an to his company followers, and went to the man’s house, asked for him, and when he came, said to him: “My brother! You have come to me and have said somethings. If you have said that which truly lies in me, I seek forgiveness from Allah; and if you have accused me of that which I am innocent, I ask Allah to forgive you!” (p.157). The man who was also a distant relative of the Imam, in response kissed the Imam’s forehead and said: “Indeed I accused you of that which you are innocent of. These words describe me.” (p.158) Eventually he looked to reform, by first softening, acknowledging and seeking forgiveness.

Chapter 10: Oppression

The Role of Justice in Society

The Destructive Flames of Oppression

The Role of Religion in Fighting Oppression and the Oppressors

The Role of Justice in Society

Justice is a word that has inspired many societies over time to stand up against oppression that they may have been facing or under influence of. Despite this, not many have been successful.

Not many societies have been successful to overthrow oppression, as “the secret behind their failure becomes apparent with a little reflection on an important issue. That is to say that a society which looses (loses) track of the natural course of development and becomes accustomed to failure and backwardness will be unable to bear a just system and will be unable to tolerate just order.” (p.141)

“A just law is a basic requirement for any social structure. A just law guarantees the rights of all classes and individuals in accordance with the welfare of the public, accompanied by behavioral implementation of its various codes.” (p.141)

Allah SWT has made everything to be dependent on a just system or justice. The example of the human body and all its different organs is give, where in that order and the body’s functioning there is a just system, thus that concept can be applied to all life and living/existence.

Since humans have been given the capacity to learn, think, and do good, it is a responsibility of humankind to aim to establish justice and order in society; “...it becomes his duty to establish the pillars of Justice in his society”. (p.142)

Justice is the source behind excellence, as well brings peace and serendipity between people.

Beautiful quotes you need to read in this book, and chapter as well.

“...Justice is the basic element in an organized social life.” (p.143)

The Destructive Flames of Oppression

Oppression indisputably destroys societies “ruining behavior, and violating social security”. (p.143)

Recount of the story of an oppressor, Muhammad Ibn ‘Abd al-Malik, who would torture innocent people in a horrid way, and who eventually died the same way by the torture machine he had built.

Oppression is not limited to a certain position or class; “Any person in any position who intentionally or unintentionally attempts to exploit (the) life of others for his own sake, or tries to go beyond the limits of the laws of reason or legislation can be classified as an oppressor.” (p.144)

Modern day oppression has reached new peaks.

The Role of Religion in Fighting Oppression and the Oppressors

Verse 59, of Surah 18, Surah Al-Kahf: And (as for) these towns, We destroyed them when they acted unjustly and We have appointed a time for their destruction.

“According to the Holy Qur’an, the conduct of the leaders of religion is an important factor in awakening people against oppression” (p.145) - reference to verse 25 of surah 57, Al-Hadid: Certainly, We sent our apostles with clear arguments, and sent down with them the Book and the Balance that men may conduct themselves with equity.

The ultimate goal of Islam is collective justice as the book mentions; and perhaps the main part of our purpose on this earth, as in how we will act, what we will do.

To see in the Holy Qur’an: 5:8, and 4:58.

The rights of being just to one’s children is brought up, and parents being just to each other in front of them. 

Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.h.f.) has been quoted in Nahj-al-Fasahah, p.66: “Be just to your children with gifts if you would like them to be just to you in kindliness.”

Chapter 9: Conceit

The Light of Love in the Horizon of Life

Conceit Leads to People’s Resentment

Our Leaders and Modesty

The Light of Love in the Horizon of Life

Man’s spirit and expansiveness of life comes by love.

disappointment, loneliness take heed if “we extinguish the light of love from the horizon of life” (p.129)

socialization is a part of our nature and makeup, and preference for loneliness or seclusion stems from “mental imbalance” (p.129)

soul requires love

(the intensity of) difficulties are repelled by the light of love in one’s life

“Indeed it is true to say that there is no cure for pains, sorrows and hardships except through love.” (p.130)

We gain the ability to love others by being generously kind, and by understanding the responsibility we have towards others, to be kind, “to grant them love and affection” (p.130).

Conceit Leads to People’s Resentment

Self-love is a basic human instinct and essential.

However maladies also stem from excess of self-love, such as extravagance of it or further, conceit.

“The most fatal danger to happiness and the worst enemy of mankind are conceit and exaggerated self-confidence.” (p.132)

Those who are limited to loving themselves cannot possibly be fair in their relations or judgement and become overwhelmingly selfish and essentially conceited; making it difficult to understand other people and their feelings as well.

There is also an inappropriate expectation by the conceited on for other people’s respect, book terms it specifically as "stubborn anticipation” (p.132)

Other side evils of conceit are pessimism and suspicion, which seems to be validated when people resent the individual due in fact to their initial conceited behaviour.

These all have negative consequences that add to each other, taking more peace from the individual suffering/exhibiting.

“A brief review of the world’s history reveals that it is the conceited ones who have always resisted the calls of Prophets and Messengers” (p.133)

“Most conceited individuals are delinquents who were brought up in unstable homes and were able to obtain position in the society.” (p.133)

Genuinely distinguished individuals do not look to assert themselves by arrogance or conceit, also understanding that is not where real respect, life, happiness, etc. comes from.

Our Leaders and Modesty

Modesty is one of the best ways leading to excellent morals.

There is a difference between modesty and self-abasement: “Modesty is the manifestation of a noble trait of a great and self-confident character, while self-abasement arises from moral lowliness and loss of self-confidence.” (p.134).

Luqman advises his son, with the ayat from the Qur’an re conceit, 31:18.

“And do not turn your face away from people in contempt, nor go about in the land exulting overmuch; surely Allah does not love any self-conceited boaster.” (31:18, Holy Qur’an)

Conceit makes even ill actions of the conceited seem good to them, because their conceit “embellishes” the act, as described by Imam Musa Al-Kadhim (A.S.) in Wasa’il al-Shiah, vol. 1, p. 74.

Conceited people suffer from weakness of the mind.

“He whose mind is weakened, his pride is strengthened.” - Imam Ali (A.S.) - Ghurur al-Hikam, p.651

Chapter 8: Envy

An Enigmatic and Corrupt Desire!

The Envious Burn in the Fire of Failure and Deprivation

Religion versus Envy

An Enigmatic and Corrupt Desire!

Hope brings happiness and light in one’s life, against the waves of struggles (or tests) of life.

Individual desires are related to the spiritual and psychological integrity that individuals attain; “and rescue us from hardships and miseries” (p.117).

Misery comes from instincts such as conceit, stinginess and envy.

Envy involves the inability to see others in states of happiness; and reflects a deeper deficit in understanding as well the bounty of Allah (swt); i.e. one person’s happiness or wellness does not deter another person’s.

Envy is a negative energy and it consumes the one who feels it.

“Not only do the envious lack the title of humanitarian, but they are lower than animals. For he who does not care about the pains of others cannot be a real manifestation of humanity”. (p.118).

The Envious Burn in the Fire of Failure and Deprivation

Envy takes space in one’s being and not only blocks the heart from goodness, but destroys good that is already in it - as envy is not reflective of truth, or love, kindness and compassion for others.

Envious people become deprived naturally because they cannot enjoy the feelings of kindness and cooperation, or simply wanting good for others.

Envious people, if they expose their traits publicly, will also receive rejection or “waves of hatred and public resentment” (p.119).

Envy brings upon inner sadness.

Reference to the story of Cain and Abel; how Cain was envious of his brother’s sacrifice being accepted. Envy deprived Cain of the brotherly feelings he could have felt towards his brother; all that kind of goodness was replaced with evilness and falsehood that deterred him further from the right path.

“According to Schopenhauer: Envy is the most dangerous of human feelings. So it is necessary that man considers it as his arch enemy, and works to eliminate it from the path of his happiness.” (p.120).

Societies that suffer from envy are drowning in problems, and instead of seeing other members of society with integrity, they see them as “obstacles”, (and I would add, perhaps, competition).

Religion Versus Envy

Verse from the Qur’an (4:32): 

“And do not covet that by which Allah has made some of you excel others; men shall have the benefit of what they earn and women shall have the benefit of what they earn; ask Allah of His grace; surely Allah knows all things”.

Quote of Imam Jafar As-Sadiq (A.S.):

“Envy originates from the blindness of the heart and the refusal of Allah’s blessings (glory be to Him) which are (the two factors) two rings of infidelity. It is with envy that Adam’s son fell victim to the sorrow of eternity and became afflicted with eternal damnation from which lie shall never be rescued.”

One of the elements that cause envy is ill upbringing at home.

Be fair in gifts towards children - as advised by Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.h.f.).

Envy deteriorates the body - as taught by Imam Ali (A.S.).

“Safeguard yourselves against envy for it ridicules the soul.” - Imam Ali (A.S.) (Ghurar al-Hikam, p.141). (p.124).

“Compete in desirable traits, great hopes and exalted ideas and your rewards will become greater.” - Imam Ali (A.S.) (Ghurar al-Hikam, p.355) (p.125).

Chapter 7: Fault-Finding

Ignorance of One’s Own Faults

The Sarcastic and the Insulters

Religious Teachings Versus Sarcasm

Ignorance of One’s Own Faults

One of the greatest shortcomings of an individual, and that comes through the practice of ignoring what is unpleasant, until it becomes a normalized subconscious act.

The first step towards “salvation” (p.105), as quoted from the book, or personal progress, is to recognize one’s shortcomings.

Ripple effect of goodness should be expected when one starts to try and identify and address their shortcomings, albeit even what is initially seen as simple or little, I.e. in behaviour, routines, or habits.

Recognition paired with a “strong will” (p.106) necessitate for action to be taken to address one’s behavioural shortcomings.

The Sarcastic and the Insulters

How often those who are concerned with the faults of others, indeed suffer with lengthy faults of their own.

“Insulting others is an evil trait which pollutes man’s life and degrades his behavioural characteristics.” (p.107).

Finding faults in others never benefits us, and is also inaccurate; (as we try to make judgement based on our imperfect spectrum and lack of rights to do so - how often is making judgement necessary, and how often are we qualified?).

“Those who constantly criticize others waste their efforts in manners unacceptable to observing their friends’ faults in order to insult and downgrade them, ignoring the fact that by doing so they deprive themselves of any opportunity to notice their own mistakes, thus leading themselves from the path of guidance and righteousness”. (p.107).

Excellent excerpts, hence the quoting…

“Those who lack courage neither observe any rule nor respect the honor of others - they cannot live in harmony with the closest people to them. When these people cannot find acquaintances to insult, they turn to relatives and friends; for this reason, these people are unable to make real friends whose love and respect they can enjoy.” (p.107).

“One who wishes to socialize with others has to define his own duties and responsibilities, one of which is to always look for the virtuous traits and good deeds of others in order to be able to glorify them.” (p.108).

“Teach people without being teachers”. (p.109).

Religious Teachings Versus Sarcasm

Islam forbids “slander and sarcasm in order to avoid dissension and the weakening of brotherly relationships” (p.109).

Reference to Surah 104, ayah 1: “Woe to every slandered, defamer.”

The book goes on to quote the Imams and other personalities in regards to the matter, some:

“Avoid the companionship of those who search for people’s shortcomings, for their companions are not safe from their plots.” (Ghurar al-Hikam, p.148).

Chapter 6: Slander

A Society Polluted with Sins

The Disadvantages of Slander

What Causes Slander to Spread

Religion Versus lll Manners

A Society Polluted with Sins

Present day societies have become especially drowning in sins, or spiritual pollution or pain, as they “have failed to develop their manners at the same pace that they were able to secure material luxuries for themselves” (p. 93).

In present societies when people are longing spiritual, or are in grief, etc., they (in general, modern problem) go to “lowliness in order to reduce their spiritual pains and anxieties” (p.93)

In modern societies that are struggling spiritually (i.e. with high mental health problems, in common terms), they could have alleviated much of this if investments and energy were spent on moral projects, as opposed to too often materialistic advancements.

“Needless to say that unless noble traits become the judging point for good personalities in any given society, the members of that society will not observe them but rather will become overwhelmingly influenced by the social mind which leads them to imitate others actions, ignoring any possible adverse affects” (pp. 93-94).

Slander is defined by google dictionary as “the action or crime of making a false spoken statement damaging to a person’s reputation.”

The  Disadvantages of Slander

“Most dangerous disadvantage of slander is the destruction of the spiritual personality of the slanderer’s conscience” (p. 95).

Slander is a type of lie that people commit, but that actually completely eradicates their moral compass. Also the thought (wiring of the brain) is played dishonestly and the one who slanders loses their excellence in behaviour and morality, since their soul (mind) is corrupted now. People who slander do this to their own selves. 

The effects are substantial, take place effectively immediately, and are unfortunate.

In a society where slander persists people cannot grow because they harbour suspicion of one another and lack of trust (reflecting their own inner worlds).

For a society to heal and flourish, they must be able to foster brotherly/sisterly thoughts and feelings of one another.

What Causes Slander to Spread

A manifestation of sin, and directly connected to our spirituality, scholars have sought to find out what spiritual maladies cause or are the source of slander, and they mention many, “The most important being: Envy, anger, conceit, self-righteousness and suspicion” (p.96).

Many people notice other sins more easily but not slander, and commit slander more easily, and detrimentally to them!

An intense quote from the book: “Those who do not observe their own or other’s dignity are not abiding by the law of ethics; and a person who makes life an arena for his lusts encroaching upon other’s rights deserves misery.” (p.97).

Poor quality of manners comes from a weak faith.

The author says here, something interesting to note: “Everyone has an opinion as to the best method of rescuing people from deviation and moral corruption. In my opinion the most effective way is to encourage the qualities of good will in people by awakening the calls of goodness and human instincts in them and leading them to exploit the treasures of their minds on the path of obtaining happiness.” (p.97).

Knowing what effects a bad habit or act does, helps us to choose not to do that act.

Our nature cares in its core essence to do what makes sense - and so understanding helps us toward rightfulness.

Religion Versus Ill Manners

From the Holy Qur’an:

“Does one of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? But you abhor it. (49:12)” (p.99).

Chapter 5: Hypocrisy: 

Endeavour to Cherish Your Personality; 

Hypocrisy: The Ugliest Trait; 

Burn Down the Dwellings of Hypocrisy

Endeavour to Cherish Your Personality

In order to venture and work on personal development, we need to do that from a place of honesty, and that comes with cherishing our personality, recognizing who we are and moving forward from there.

“There is nothing more capable of giving him the strength to venture into the rough sea of like than personality”.

Personality is a gift from Allah swt, each one of us are unique in our ways of thought, being and thinking, thus our ways to Allah swt are also unique.

Personality is incomparable to material belongings, if there is the concept that materials will bring contentment - it is our state of being that brings contentment.

The importance of understanding/finding one’s own unique skills and strengths, referred in this book to as “hidden powers and capabilities” (p.80); and alongside that, identifying traits that may not be favourable or pose difficulty in one’s “path of perfection” (p.80).

It is important to know our own value.

Our words are a reflection and manifestation of our deeper hidden thoughts, beliefs and or feelings.

Hypocrisy: The Ugliest Trait

One of the most detestable traits is hypocrisy.

Hypocrisy flourishes in personalities that lie, breach agreements or violate promises - and becomes more acute overtime.

Hypocrisy “contradicts the life of happiness which relies on spiritual perfection” (p. 81).

“Hypocrisy is a dangerous epidemic which threatens man’s honor and dignity, leads to irresponsibility and lowly traits, and replaces his self-confidence with suspicion, pessimism, and anxiety” (p.81).

Characteristic traits of hypocrites: “false compliments; unconditional acceptance of other ideologies; and refraining from the defending (of) righteousness when it is essential” (p.82).

“Because the hypocrite is unable to win the hearts of those he deals with or gain love and respect, his life is full of humiliation and disgust. His attempts to conceal the facts prevent him from living a secure, stable, and anxiety free life; for he is in constant fear of the inevitable discovery of what he really is.” (p. 82)

Hypocrisy is becoming  a more normal trait, and practiced more publicly, unfortunately, inevitably.

“Sincerity and honesty are manifestations of a pure conscience and are the most honorable traits of life.” (p.83)

Burn Down the Dwellings of Hypocrisy

Hypocrites were some of the first to go against the teachings/spreading of Islam when it was advancing.

Story of the “Mosque of Dissension” is shared here; a mosque built not out of good intentions but to create problems, and so Allah (swt) made prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.h.f.) aware of this, and the building was burnt down before being opened.

Hypocrisy is a spiritual disease, where the outward appearance of people with it seems ‘pure’.

Quote in book by Dr. H. Shakhter: 

“There are some people who argue for no other reason except to become famous. These people are not sure about their beliefs nor do they really believe in what they argue about, yet they would rather criticize others instead of remaining silent as it is difficult for them to tolerate others' indifference to them. Another type of people are those that when they notice people’s indifference to them, follow the path of hypocrisy to create dissension and hence prove their existence.” (p.86).

The prophet (p.b.u.h.h.f.) revealed to us three signs of hypocrites when he said:

“And there are three signs of hypocrites: When they speak they lie. When they make promises, they do not keep them. And when they are trusted they cheat. (Bihar al-anwar, vol.15, p.30)” (p.86)

Chapter 4: Lying: The Position of Manners in Society; The Disadvantages of Lying; Lying is Prohibited by Religion

The Position of Manners in Society

Manners are elements connected to our innate humanity, and are not advocated for only by religious governments or societies, but by any societies who wish for there to be order and clarity in conduct.

Quoted, Samuel Smiles, a British scholar: “Those who have reached the peaks of excellence and greatness are like bright lights clearing the way for humanity and guiding people towards the paths of morality and piety. If the members of a society anywhere lack good behavior, they will be unable to reach excellence regardless of how much freedom or political rights they enjoy.” (p.66)

Knowing is separate from acting on what we know, though a necessary prerequisite.

Being aware of animalistic tendencies, or struggle between “the traits of evil and goodness” (p.66), will help us with the next step, and that is choosing the good. To enable that, we can identify foreign evil traits, and not succumb to them, thus naturally enabling us in the right way/ with goodness, in line with our nature (spiritual nature).

The Disadvantages of Lying

Truthfulness possesses as many benefits as lying possesses disadvantages.

Lying seems to stem from two places, as mentioned in this book: one either from envy or enmity, stemming from anger, and two, from stinginess or habit, reflecting the “effects of the burning lusts of man” (p.68).

lying slowly eliminates the light of an individual, and also “has an amazing (negatively) effect in terminating the ties of unity and harmony between mena and spreads hypocrisy” (p.68).

“As a matter of fact, a great deal of misguidance springs from false claims and empty words. For men with evil intentions lying is an open door to help them reach their selfish goals by concealing the facts behind their magical words and capturing innocent people with their poisonous lies.” (p.68).

Liars have bad memories.

Why do people lie? Some think no one will ever find out the truth. Some are encouraged to not face truths.

Lying is a great sin; I.e. great blocker of light, love, and peace.

Lying is an illness and should especially not be practiced in front of children lest they “be affected and in turn be inflicted with the same illness” (p.70).

Lying is Prohibited by Religion

“The Holy Qur’an explicitly categorizes liars as disbelievers: Only they forge the lies who do not believe in Allah’s communications, and these are the liars (16:105)” (p.71)

“It is understood from this verse that believers due to subject themselves to the filth of fabrication” - what an eloquent way to describe, once again.

Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.h.f.) has stated that “...truthfulness guides to Paradise…And avoid falsehood; for it leads to the Fire.” - Nahj al-Fasahah, p.418 (p.71)

A quality liars have is that they only believe after “annoying insistence” (p.71)

People who doubt others easily are projecting most likely their own qualities, I.e. they are likely often dishonest themselves.

Courageous honest people cannot bear qualities such as lying.

“Liars suffer a mental disorder which keeps them from speaking the truth.” (p.72)

Quote by Imam Ali (AS): “If entities were materialized, surely truthfulness would stand with courage and cowardice would stand with lying.” Ghurur al-Hikam, p. 605 (p.72)

Prayers and Fasts are not indicators of good character as honesty and protecting of trusts are.

SubhanAllah, lying is a very ugly trait, there are many quotations, Islamic ones and general ones included in this chapter.

Religious feelings reduce material desires

“In the Holy Qur’an lying is considered to be an unforgivable sin… (24:4)” (p.74)

Chapter 3: Pessimism: The Bright and Dark Points in Life; The Negative Effects of Pessimism; Islam Versus Pessimism

The Bright and Dark Points of Life

Life is composed of pain and comfort, however it is greatly on our thoughts how this will play.

Often the problems we complain about are not the actual problem, but our way of approaching or perspective of the matter.

“Yet, after we come to realise the deep meaning of this life, we can direct our vision towards the beautiful side of existence and cast away the ugly entities which tarnish the fact of life in this vast universe;...” (p.51)

We choose our thinking, to focus on the positive and dwell on the bounties of purpose of existence, for each creation, and our own, or dwell on the negative, which does not have much but gloominess.

It is important to choose, choose positive, and practice self-control, or “Otherwise, we may face irreplaceable loses, or even fall victim to the typhoons of misfortune”. (p.51)

“Optimists never abandon the borders of modesty, restraint and patience.” (p. 53)

A segment of a quote mentioned by one unnamed scholar: “...and if you are merciful and truthful, you will find people around you who will love you and open the treasures of love and respect of their hearts to you.” (p.53)

Pain is also a bitter reality of life, however it helps us to reach our spiritual potential. This is in reference not to that humans should cause challenges for others, but the God given life challenges that come naturally.

The Negative Effects of Pessimism

“Pessimism is a painful misfortune that tortures the human soul and leaves incurable defects on man’s personality which cannot be erased.” (p.53)

Pessimism can be a sort of revolt in the face of challenges, one needs to accept, embrace and go through challenges, not disvalidate them.

If we are pessimistic we “cannot comprehend conduct of innocent individuals clear of evil aims” (p.54).

Pessimism affects not only the soul of course, but the body as well, naturally as it is connected to the soul.

Pessimism causes people to “destroy their abilities to develop and advance” (p.55)

“If we examine any sector of human society, we will find that backbiting and gossip stem from suspicion that is paired with a lack of examination and reflection.” (p.55)

Islam Versus Pessimism

“O you who believe! Avoid most suspicion, for surely suspicion in some cases is a sin.” (Holy Quran, 49:12).

“A Muslim is sacred to another Muslim: his blood, his property and (it is prohibited) for one to think negatively of another.” - Jami al-Salah of al-Tirmidhi, ch. 18; al-Sunan of Ibn Majah, ch. 2; al-Sahih of Muslim; ch. 32, al-Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal, vol. 2, p.277 and vol. 3, p.491.

Multiple quotes are shared regarding suspicion, and for example, having suspicion of a doer of good, is even considered oppressive.

“Sometimes suspicion diverts the suspected persons from the straight path and leads into corruption and lowliness.” (p.57)

Lack of self-confidence leads to being easily inflicted with negative memories by minor setbacks, which feeds, often unknowingly, into weighty, burdened souls or attitudes, i.e. more easily depressed or suspicious. (p.59).

Chapter 2: Optimism: Trust and Peace of Mind; The Effects of Optimism; Islam Calls for Optimism and Trust

Part 1: Trust and Peace of Mind

The important need for stability in an already “unstable life” (p. 39)

Need for stability increases as one’s responsibilities increase, emphasizing a duty to foster stability, with note on avoiding anxiety.

Aiming for acquisition of material things will not lead to fulfillment, as “happiness lies in his own soul” (p.39)

Apictatus quote, just a concise part of it: “The Roman Ceasers were unhappy despite their great power”. Power referencing their wealth, materials, acquired land, etc.

Unsolved questions in nature, and rapid increase in machinery is not enough to bring a worry free life.

To find our souls we need to enlighten our minds.

“Clear mindedness is a fluent spring which advance man to a more excellent degree than material gains can by introducing him to a vast new world.”

Good thinking prevents us from being taken advantage of.

World challenges described also as “waves of negligence and exaggeration” (p.40)

Quote mentioned in chapter by unnamed scholar, small segment: “...Our souls are directed to the path of our thoughts. In other words, our thoughts direct us in any manner they wish; because of this we should not allow ourselves to hold any evil thoughts or to occupy our minds with that which we resent.” (p.41)

Part 2: The Effects of Optimism

As the body can be affected by visible ailments or diseases, so can the mind be affected by invisible evil thoughts.

Good thoughts need to be reflected in good practice, i.e. mannerisms/states of being - for fostering happiness.

“Two elements which help create harmonious thinking are optimism and a positive outlook towards life and others.”

“Optimism can be best described as a light in darkness which widens as the horizon of thinking does. With it the love of kindness grows in a man…”

Amazing quotations, one will have to read the full book to enjoy.

For society to move forward deeper social connections are needed.

Trust is a necessary component for this.

Leading social fruits of optimism are: harmony, cooperation, and trust.

Trust does not mean that one should totally submit; conduct is in fact built upon “precaution and carefulness” (p.43)

Part 3: Islam Calls for Optimism and Trust

Islam gives faith, leading to comfort and stability.

Notes on the confidence of the last Prophet of Islam (p.b.u.h.h.f.) - to the extent that hypocrites would criticize him for it.

Islam says to assume good intentions of one another in each other’s actions, and not as corrupt, especially without proper evidence for such judgement.

“Expect good from your brothers, unless something happens that makes you rule otherwise; and do not assume a word of his evil when there is still the possibility of it being good.” - Imam Ali (A.S.), Jami al-Sa’adat, vol.2, p. 28

Trusting one another nurtures good friendships, as well as seeing the good in others, and in our friends, not looking for faults, but appreciating them for their goodness. This is different from having people we call friends who actually present their worst sides, and don’t influence us positively.

Trusting others, and expecting good from them can lead to them acting on those good beliefs of them.

Imam Ali (A.S): “Trust is a comfort to the heart and security in faith.” Ghurur al-Hikam, p. 276, also, 

“One who refuses ill expectations of his brother, has healthy reason and his heart is at peace.” (Ghurur al-Hikam, p. 676)

Samuel Smiles: “It has been proven that those who have strong natures and spirits are naturally happy and hopeful in life.” (p.47)

“Among the rights of a believer to another believer…, is not to doubt him.” - Imam al-Sadiq (A.S.), (Usul al-Kafi, vol. 1, p. 394)

For optimism and trust, one needs faith.

Chapter 1 Summary/Reflections:

Chapter 1: Ill Nature: The Value of Friendship; Ill-Natured Individuals are Resentful; The Prophet of Islam

Part 1: The Value of Friendship

Human nature is drawn to and thrives off of love, we came from the greatest source of all love, however a few things are pointed out in this chapter’s bit: that there is natural affinity for love, but reciprocity is a reflection of our own selves or hearts, so we cannot expect what we cannot give; that sometimes the facade or masks that people put are broken due to our relations with them, because they cannot maintain false images; and a quote for its effective eloquence will simply be shared: “Indeed one of the prerequisites of happiness and an effective method of spiritual development is real friendship with righteous people. This is because personal thoughts develop under the shadow of such relationships, wherein the spirit rises to levels of piety and excellent traits.” (p.29)

Part 2: Ill-Natured Individuals are Resentful

Ill-temper sometimes ruins chances for us that we could otherwise have.

It is important to understand the essentiality of how to interact in the first place with others, in manners, as that is the foundation that will lead us to being able to build our social relations, “happiness between people”.

“In fact, good conduct allows man to make use of his abilities and become effective on the general level of managing society”. (p.30)

Part of good manners means knowing not to weigh others down with our own struggles, in that we do not “manifest” our sad sides to others.

This is a universal concept, not simply Islamic, as we can see, for example, the element of good behaviours and manners being important for the success of businesses in society.

Not all individuals presenting good manners are honest, of course. However the message here is to encourage our own selves to try and be kind and positive, especially in regards to others and the energies that we are giving/reflecting.

Part 3: The Prophet of Islam: The Perfect Exemplar

The prophet had a kind disposition and treated people fairly.

Ayah from the Qur’an mentioned in regards to Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.h.f): “And had you been rough, hard hearted they would certainly have dispersed from around you” (3:158).

Hadiths are mentioned in regards to his character and the importance of good character in general. 

Good manners and kindness are good for health, good breathing, good blood circulation in the body, good energies, good livelihood, contribute or a strong factor in one’s happiness and good for subsistence (pp. 34-35).

Quote of Imam al-Sadiq (A.S.): “Those who have the most perfect reasoning amongst people are those who have the best manners.” (Wasa’il al-Shia, vol. 2, p. 221) - this is in regards to how good manners also reflect our intellectual ability - which of course makes sense.

Youth and Morals - by Sayyed Mujtaba Musavi Lari

Forward

Take away point, finding the methods we need to understand our thinking process, in order to nurture our minds and mental abilities, to better affect our good decision making capacities.

How our Imams are the best teachers for us in finding solutions to understanding our minds, souls -

Studying behavioural sciences, psychology, can help us to appreciate their concise and conclusive guidances…

Introduction

Life goals, to attain “happiness”

A takeaway quote: “It is unfortunate to see many individuals possessing various talents which qualify them to lead a life of happiness and satisfaction subjected to different factors which make their souls a toy for discomfort and insecurity.” 

How we are made of mainly two parts: a spiritual part and mechanical part, and how whichever one is given more nurture overpowers and in a sense defeats the other.

Quote: “Lying, stinginess, hypocrisy, oppression, selfishness and other lowly characteristics, all resembling an invincible dam blocking the stream of human happiness and perfection…”

Limitations of man, but the “sacred school of the Prophets which is inspired by the magnificent springs of lights of revelation and depends on unlimited Divine knowledge”