Lessons Learned: My Personal Journey of Witnessing the Pitfalls of Pride and Arrogance

As I sat and watched brothers gamble away their wealth, spoil themselves over ladies of the night, and indulge in drugs and drinking, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of sadness and frustration. I was once part of that kind of life, but I never really indulged in it. Instead, I used weed to escape from it would often lie that I need to be somewhere, which later on became a problem in itself. I found myself fighting this addiction, depression, and anxiety, and it was very hard. These so-called friends were no true inspiration; they were just wealthy and blinded by their pride, ignorance, and arrogance. I never really saw the good in Islam; only the bad. What little good I did see was like a drop in an ocean filled with darkness.

This left me feeling as though I had scars. I got to see people for who they really were, and that experience made me think about the perils of pride and arrogance and how they might undermine one’s faith and hurt other people. My knowledge of religion and what I have learnt indicate that pride is the root of all sins and that it was what ultimately brought about Adam and Satan’s fall. We are also told that pride and arrogance are the enemies of faith today since there are so many sects and divisions among all religions, making it impossible to know which sect or division is authentic or, worse, whether the route we have chosen is the correct one.

The Holy Quran is full of verses that remind us of the dangers of pride and arrogance. Surah Luqman, for example, states: “Do not avert your face from people out of haughtiness and do not strut about arrogantly on the Earth. Allah does not love anyone who is vain or boastful.” (Quran 31:18) And in Surah Al-An’am, Allah says: “And do not walk on the earth with conceit and arrogance. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.” (Quran 6: 61)

Similarly, the Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warns us against the dangers of pride and arrogance. He said: “He who has in his heart the weight of a mustard seed of pride shall not enter Paradise.” (Sahih Muslim)

Pride and arrogance can manifest themselves in many ways, from belittling others to seeking fame and fortune at any cost. It is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that we are better than others because of our wealth, status, or achievements. But in reality, all of these things are temporary, and they mean nothing in the eyes of Allah. What truly matters is our character and how we treat others.

As Muslims, we must strive to embody the qualities of humility, kindness, and empathy. We must remember that we are all servants of Allah, and that we have no right to harbor any feelings of pride or arrogance. We must seek to emulate the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who was known for his humility and kindness towards others.

Throughout my life, I have always turned to Allah in prayer, asking for protection from pride and arrogance. I have seen so many of my friends fall victim to these pitfalls, and I never wanted to be like them. I would rather have nothing at all than let wealth and success consume me and lead me down the path of destruction.

I know that my success, whatever it may be, should be a reflection of my character and my dedication to serving Allah and treating others with respect and empathy. I don’t want to boost or brag to my friends and family, but rather show them the goodness in my heart and the blessings that Allah has bestowed upon me.

I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of pride and arrogance on those around me. It can destroy families, friendships, and even one’s own faith. So I pray to Allah every day to keep me humble and to guide me on the path of righteousness. May He protect us all from the dangers of pride and lead us to a life filled with humility, gratitude, and love for others.

Elias Amram (Journalist, Researcher and a Writer)
Article submitted by email