A Research Study of the Causes and Remedies of Arrogance in the Light of Selected Sufi Exegetical Literature

Authors

  • Dr Ilyas Ahmad - Lecturer, Islamic Studies, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University Sheringal, Dir Upper
  • Dr Zia Ur Rahman Lecturer, Islamic Studies, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University Sheringal, Dir Upper KP (PAK)
  • Dr Atiq Ullah Lecturer, Islamic Studies, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University Sheringal, Dir Upper KP (PAK)

Abstract

Islam presents a comprehensive and balanced concept of ethics, rooted in firm human character traits that lead to spontaneous virtuous or sinful actions. This study explores the concept of arrogance (takabbur) through selected Sufi tafsir (Qur'anic exegesis), examining its definitions, types, causes, and remedies. Sufi scholars classify ethics into two categories: Akhlaq-e-Hasana  (Good Morals) such as Patience, Gratitude, and Contentment, and Akhlaq-e-Sayyiah  (Bad Morals) such as Arrogance, Jealousy, Hatred, and Miserliness. Drawing on the interpretations of eleven renowned Sufi Exegetes, the study identifies arrogance as a condemnable spiritual disease arising from causes like wealth, status, ignorance, and lack of self-purification. Its manifestations include denial of truth, belittling others, and boastful behavior. The study also highlights the spiritual remedies for arrogance, including acts of worship (such as Standing in Prayer: Qiyyam and Prostration: Sujood ), Reflection, and Humility.

Keywords:  Islamic ethics,Arrogance, Sufi tafsir, Spiritual diseases, Akhlaq, Moral purification ,Takabbur, Self-discipline, Humility in Islam, Ethical teachings of Sufism

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Published

2025-07-30

How to Cite

Dr Ilyas Ahmad, Dr Zia Ur Rahman, & Dr Atiq Ullah. (2025). A Research Study of the Causes and Remedies of Arrogance in the Light of Selected Sufi Exegetical Literature . Al-Anfal, 3(3), 50–69. Retrieved from http://al-anfaljournal.com/index.php/15/article/view/57

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 3 (2025): Al-Anfal

Section

Urdu