In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
What are We Proud of?
History has portrayed fall of the most powerful kings such as
Alexander, Pharos and Cesar, despite their fast tracking victories. Hence the
transient victories are not something one can rely on them and count them the as
a sign of dignity.
Hospitals show us how strong individuals and athletes can be
weakened due to an illness or accident. This makes us realize that physical
power and strength cannot be the man's pride.
The wealthiest men may turn into the poorest by a simple event
such as fire. Thus, wealth too cannot be man's pride.
Powerful politicians and leaders have ended up in jails or have
been executed due to changes in politics of their country. And so, rural and
political power is not dependable either....
Let's look at our own life carefully. A human being is weak from
the moment of his birth, where even the simplest tasks such as controlling
saliva from falling out of his mouth seem impossible. In his old years, walking
becomes unbearable for him. If he is able to use his hands and legs, he will
have to take several breaks for a short walking distance. And if he is not able
to use his legs, he will need a wheel chair and an aid to help him move around.
Therefore, a person who began life from being nothing but a
sperm, and ends his life with death, should not take pride unto himself and act
selfishly toward others.
It is upon this matter that our master Imam Muhammad Baqir (PBUH), whose birth
anniversary we are celebrating today, has said,
"I am surprised at him who brags about himself! He was
created from a worthless sperm, and he will end as a dead corpse. While amidst
these he does not know what fate will fall upon him, nor what will happen to
him."(1)
So what does man have to brag about? What is he so proud of? How
can he think himself better than others?
(Selection taken from “Morals in
the Holy Quran” by Ayatullah Makarim Shirazi)
Roshd website congratulates to all Muslims and especially you
dear friend the birthday anniversary of the 5th Imam of the Shiites,
Imam Muhammad ibn Ali al-Baqir (PBUH).
Roshd Islamic Shia Website
Footnote:
1- Usul al-Kafi, vol. 2, p. 329
