What is Pride?
Islam, a religion of peace and submission, places great importance on humility and modesty. Yet, the nature of pride in Islam often hides beneath the surface, posing a significant threat to one’s spiritual journey. In Islamic teachings, Takabbur (arrogance) is an attitude of superiority and self-importance in which a person considers themselves better than others. It is regarded as a negative trait when it transforms into arrogance or self-importance and a disregard for their worth. This rejects the values of humility and modesty that are central to Islam. This form of pride is blamed because it is seen as a challenge to the greatness of Allah (SWT) and is believed to corrupt the heart, slowing personal and spiritual growth.
The importance of addressing pride and arrogance in Islam cannot be overstated, as these traits can cause division and conflict within communities, and are viewed as obstacles to spiritual growth and culture. Islamic teachings emphasize the need to acknowledge the greatness of the Creator and recognize one’s limitations as a human being.
However, Islam differentiates between harmful pride and a permissible sense of self-respect and dignity. We are encouraged to take pride in our faith and achievements as long as we recognize that all blessings and abilities come from Allah (SWT) and maintain humility.
Islamic Stance on Takabbur
The Quran is the complete code of life. The Quran explains all about the issue. One of them is Takabbur. Allah (SWT) says in the Quran;
This verse addresses arrogance, instructing believers not to show disgust or arrogance towards others and not to walk arrogantly. In other place, Allah (SWT) said,
This verse explains the spiritual and mental consequences of arrogance. It states that Allah (SWT) will turn away from His (SWT) signs to those who commit injustice with arrogance on the earth.
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is seen as a model of humility. We are encouraged to follow his example by practicing self-awareness, expressing gratitude, and displaying humility in our interactions with others. Overcoming pride in Islam is not just a personal journey but a collective effort to follow the religion’s core values, promoting unity and balance.
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: No one will enter Paradise who has even a mustard seed’s weight of arrogance in his heart, and no one will enter Hell who has even a mustard seed’s weight of faith in his heart.
[Sunan Ibn Majah 59]
Hazrat Harithah bin Wahb (May Allah be pleased with him) reported that I heard the Messenger of Allah (SAW) saying,
“Shall I not inform you about the people of Jannah? It is every person who is, modest and humble (before Allah Almighty), a person who is accounted weak and is looked down upon but if he adjures Allah (SWT), Allah (SWT) will certainly give him what he desires. Now shall I not inform you about the inmates of Hell? It is every violent, impertinent, and proud man”.
[Riyad as-Salihin 252]
Difference Between Takabbur and Kibr
Takabbur and Kibr are terms often discussed within Islamic ethics, relating to the concepts of pride and arrogance.
Kibr is an internal state of feeling superior to others, which leads to arrogance and a disrespectful attitude towards others. It is a spiritual disease that corrupts the heart, resulting in hatred towards others and a refusal to accept the truth. Kibr can exist without outward actions, as it primarily concerns one’s internal feelings of superiority.
On the other hand, Takabbur is the outward expression of Kibr. It shows behavior and speech that display feelings of superiority. Takabbur is the visible aspect of arrogance that affects social interactions.
Both Kibr and Takabbur are considered negative traits and are discouraged, as they can lead to faulting others and an unwarranted sense of self-importance.
Examples of Takabbur
Here are a few examples of Pride (arrogance) in Islam, along with corresponding Quranic verses.
Iblis (Satan)
The story of Iblis refusing to bow to Hazrat Adam (AS) is a classic example of arrogance (Takabbur). Iblis felt superior to Hazrat Adam (AS) because he believed himself to be better, as he was created from fire while Hazrat Adam (AS) was created from clay. This internal arrogance, known as Kibr, led to his downfall, as mentioned in the Quran.
For more information about the creation of Hazrat Adam (AS) and satan, visit this link: Creation of Hazrat Adam (AS) and the Opposition of Shaitan.
Pharaoh (Fir’aun)
The behavior of Pharaoh towards Prophet Musa (Moses) (AS) and the Israelites is an example of Takabbur. Pharaoh’s (Fir’aun) actions of pressure, cruelty, and his declaration of himself as a god are expressions of his arrogance. His Takabbur is evident in his opposition and mistreatment of his people. Allah (SWT) says in the Holy Quran;
The People of ‘Ad
The people of Ad, who were given great strength and height, became arrogant and rejected Prophet Hud’s ( AS) messages.
The Wealth of Qarun (Korah)
Qarun’s arrogance and pride in his wealth, believing that his wealth was due to his own knowledge and effort rather than Allah’s (SWT) blessing. Allah (SWT) says in the Quran;
Signs of Pride
Pride in Islam is a complex emotion that can be displayed in different ways, some of which can be harmful to interpersonal relationships and personal growth. Here are some signs of pride;
- Believing yourself to be more capable or essential than others is a sign of harmful pride, which can lead to overconfidence.
- Looking down on others is another negative aspect of pride. When individuals sense themselves as superior, they manage to have arrogant attitudes toward others.
- A lack of empathy is closely related, as it denotes an inability to understand or share the feelings of others, often resulting in cruel behavior.
- Ignoring advice can stem from a belief that one already knows best, which can hinder learning and development.
- Envy and jealousy are emotions that can arise from pride when individuals compare themselves to others and feel resentful if they perceive others as having more success or recognition.
Types of Arrogance
Arrogance is a trait that is displayed in various forms and can be understood through different aspects. Here are some common types of arrogance:
- Intellectual Arrogance: This type of arrogance occurs when individuals believe they are intellectually superior to others. They often ignore other people’s ideas, opinions, and contributions as deficient or irrelevant.
- Social Arrogance: Those who display social arrogance believe they are better than others based on their social status, wealth, or connections. They may look down on those they perceive as less wealthy or influential, often showing arrogance and a lack of empathy toward others.
- Moral Arrogance: This type of arrogance is seen in individuals who believe their moral compass or ethical standards are superior to those of others. They may judge others harshly and self-righteously, feeling morally justified in their actions and opinions, often without acknowledging their flaws or biases.
- Religious Arrogance: Those who display religious arrogance believe their religious beliefs and practices are superior to those of others. This can lead to intolerance, closed-mindedness, and a lack of respect for different faiths and spiritual practices.
Consequences of Takabbur
The trait of Takabbur, or arrogance, has numerous negative effects on both the individual displaying it and those around them. Here are some significant consequences:
- Distance from Allah (SWT): Arrogance creates a barrier between the individual and Allah (SWT). It stops the person from recognizing their dependence on their Creator and hinders sincere worship and supplication.
- Loss of Barakah: Arrogant people often withdraw spiritual blessings (barakah) from their lives. Their efforts may bear less fruit, and they may find themselves constantly dissatisfied.
- Misguidance: Arrogance can lead to misguidance, as the individual may reject truth and guidance from Allah (SWT), thinking they know better.
- Broken Relationships: Arrogance often results in broken friendships, strained family ties, and poor workplace relations. People generally dislike and avoid arrogant individuals.
- Entry to Hellfire: According to Islamic teachings, arrogance is a major sin that can lead to painful punishment in the Hereafter.
Is Takabbur Sinful?
In Islamic teachings, Takabbur is considered a significant sin. It is important to distinguish between involuntary and voluntary Takabbur. Involuntary feelings of pride in Islam are not regarded as sinful because they are not intentional.
However, intentionally maintaining and entertaining feelings of superiority leads to sinful Takabbur. This is because it involves a willful choice to look down upon others, which is disobedient to the values of humility and equality emphasized in Islam. The teachings suggest that true Takabbur is characterized by both a sense of superiority and contempt for others, and it is this combination that is considered harmful and against the spiritual beliefs of the faith.
How to Get Rid of Arrogance in Islam
Takabbur is a trait that can hinder spiritual growth and social balance. Islam provides many strategies to help believers overcome arrogance and develop humility.
- Daily Self-Reflection: Spend a few minutes each day reflecting on your actions and intentions. Ask yourself if you have treated others with respect and humility.
- Repentance: Regularly seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT) for any arrogant thoughts or actions. Repentance (Tawbah) helps cleanse the heart and mind.
- Remembrance of Allah (SWT): Engage in regular Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) to keep His (SWT) greatness at the forefront of your mind.
- Gratitude to Allah (SWT): Acknowledge that all your talents, successes, and possessions are blessings from Allah (SWT). Thank Him (SWT) for these gifts regularly.
- Gratitude (Shukr) and contentment (Qana’ah) are crucial for spiritual growth and happiness in Islam. Click on the link to learn more about the Gratitude and Contentment in Islam.
- Dua (Supplication): Making sincere supplications to Allah Almighty to help overcome arrogance can be a powerful tool for spiritual transformation.
- Companionship with the Righteous: Surrounding oneself with humble and pious individuals can inspire and motivate you to adopt similar qualities.
- Acts of Service: Engage in charitable activities and community service. Serving others helps cultivate humility and empathy.
- Islamic Education: Study the lives of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions, who exemplified humility. Learn from their examples.
- Patience and Perseverance: Overcoming arrogance is a gradual process that requires patience and perseverance.
Conclusion
We have explored the spiritual dangers of pride in Islam, highlighting its harmful effects on personal character and communal harmony. The Quran and Hadith repeatedly warn against pride, stressing humility as a foundational virtue that strengthens our relationship with Allah (SWT) and encourages genuine connections with others.
We must recall our behavior and attitudes, examine our hearts for traces of pride, and seriously seek humility. Humility involves:
- Recognizing limitations.
- Acknowledging the blessings of Allah (SWT).
- Treating others with respect and kindness.
By developing humility, individuals not only purify their souls but also contribute positively to their communities, promoting justice and unity.
May Allah (SWT) guide us all towards humility and righteousness in our goal of spiritual excellence.
