Ego
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we did not stand up for God’s absolute power during the heavenly
feud! It is because of it that we are going through this life—the
make-up test.
The Quran gives us examples of the result of following our egos
rather than killing them. It teaches us that it was ego that provoked
Adam’s son Cain into murdering his brother Abel (5:30). Through
the example of the governor’s wife who had tempted Joseph
it teaches us that “the self is an advocate of vice”
(12:53).
Following our ego puts us in danger of being covered by the following
verse:
Are those enlightened by their Lord the same as
those whose evil works are adorned in their eyes, and they follow
their own opinions? (47:14)
Following our ego causes us to be arrogant to the extent of rejecting
God’s messengers:
...Is it not a fact that every time a messenger
went to you with anything you disliked, your ego caused you to be
arrogant? Some of them you rejected, and some of them you killed.
(2:87)
Finally, we are given the example of David whose repentance was
reinforced with God’s teaching to
“...rule among the people equitably, and do
not follow your personal opinion, lest it diverts you from the way
of God” (38:26).
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Humility is antithesis of ego. Its importance
is emphasized throughout the scriptures. (See also 17:37 and 25:63):
“You shall not treat the people with arrogance,
nor shall you roam the earth proudly. God does not like the arrogant
showoffs “Walk humbly and lower your voice - the ugliest voice
is the donkey’s voice.” (Luqmaan’s advice to his
son, 31:18-19)
Man’s pride causes his humiliation, but he
who is humble of spirit obtains honor. (Proverbs 29:23)
God teaches us that the ego can become an idol and the consequences
can be detrimental for our salvation. Those who idolize their selves
or egos may be sent astray by God, despite the knowledge they acquired:
Have you seen the one whose god is his own ego? Will
you be his advocate? (25:43)
Have you noted the one whose god is his ego? Consequently,
God sends him astray, despite his knowledge, seals his hearing and
his mind, and places a veil on his eyes. Who then can guide him,
after such a decision by God? Would you not take heed? (45:23)
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How do we go about killing our egos?
God gives us many means of working at this. For example, advice
has been given to us to use criticism from someone else to kill
the ego. Even if it was not correct, you have used it constructively.
(Easier said than done though!) Every time we make a mistake, then
repent and try to make amends, we are killing our ego. Every time
we take ourselves to task for not being as eager to work righteousness,
for not being straightforward, for backsliding, for falling into
gossip or vain talk, we are killing our ego.
Sadly, the ego is like a hearty weed. Just when you think you
have it licked, it sprouts right back up again. We must remember
that God is the only one who really can do anything—including
killing our ego. However, it is us who must make the initial decision
to improve ourselves:
...God does not change the condition of any people
unless they themselves make the decision to change... (13:11)
Lisa Spray
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