The Human Paradox
Humanity is fashioned in the finest mold, imbued with divine spirit (ruh) and knowledge. Yet, we frequently stumble in confusion, our judgments clouded, leading to unnecessary suffering. How does this paradox arise?
1. The External Search: Neglecting the Inner Sanctuary
We possess an innate capacity for truth, yet we often seek answers in the ephemeral world. We turn to worldly leaders, chase material success, and crave social validation. Society conditions us to measure worth by external power, wealth, and status, creating a cycle of dependence on limited beings rather than the boundless guidance of our Rabb.
This relentless pursuit of the fleeting "Dunya" (world) allows it to dictate our lives, obscuring our true purpose. We become estranged from the inner sanctuary where divine wisdom resides.
2. Rekindling the Inner Light: The Path to Clarity
The moment we turn inward, we awaken to the magnificence of our creation. We rediscover the radiant light (nur) within, revealing the enduring truth: our Rabb has always been our guide. True power, assistance, and dominion belong solely to Allah.
By centering ourselves in the spiritual realm, we remain anchored in Allah's presence, untouched by the world's turbulent currents. Our confusion stems from self-forgetfulness, from seeking solace externally. The moment we remember our true selves, we find Allah.As the great Sufis proclaim: "He who knows himself, knows his Lord."
This is the inner jihad—a struggle to transcend the illusions of the external world and embrace the divine reality within.