Knowledge of the Self

One of the advantages of this ideology is that it motivates the Moslem to know himself. It is impossible to elevate the self without knowing its nature. This knowledge is the first step to take control over it and to rein its caprices. Imam Albaaqir says: (there is no knowledge like knowing your self” 186

Then, there is a strong associative relationship between knowing Allah (be exalted) and knowing the self. For by knowing the self, its nature and powers, Man can know its Creator and evaluate His greatness. It is in the prophetic Hadeeth “He who knows himself, knows his (Creator)”. In return forgetting Allah (be exalted) results in forgetting one’s self: “And be not like those who forsook Allah so He made them forsake of their own selves” 187

Notes:

186. Tuhaf alaukool: 208.

187. Alhashr 59: 19.

Adapted from: "The Role of Ideology in Constructing The Human Being" by: "Ar-Risaleh Center"