The Divine Value Of One’s “Self”
The self embodies the human spirit, It’s value is priceless.
The preservation of self is perhaps one of the holiest of sacrifices one can make. A good sense of self is perhaps the spirit of morality regarding as a precious sentiment. Good etiquette is likened and considered a precious thing while mean qualities are considered to devalue the “self.”
In this expression of morality, human beings have an asset considered very precious and that something is his “self.” Thus a human being is often told to never compromise himself or let it suffer from corruption.
As this “self” is a priceless commodity that everyone possesses. In a letter addressed to Imam al Hasan (A) as recorded in Nahj al Balagah, Imam Ali Ibn Abi Talib (A) has said,
“Keep yourself away from every low thing even though they may take you to your desired aims because you will not get any return for your own respect that you spend.”
The following excerpts details that — do not humiliate and disregard your self as it is a jewel, and if you barter it for anything, you will be cheated.
So the self indeed is that of being valuable and nothing is of more value than it — it should not be lost at any cost.
The significance of the self can be compared to the national prestige of a nation. It has the equivalent value when compared with scientific, literary, and aesthetic works of art.
To preserve one’s self is to safeguard the spiritual dimension of one’s being. To not let it become corrupted with vices, is perhaps the ultimate sacrifice one can do. One should always, therefore, strive for a stronger sense of self.
It not only aspires courage but also acceptance of one’s weaknesses and strengths. In another account, Imam Ali Ibn Abi Talib(A) has said,
“Indeed the greatest of people are those for whom the entire world is lesser in value than their ‘self.’”
There is great importance given to what the self is and what it stands for. It is the divine spirit that embodies our spirit — our soul’s manifestation. Thus treat your self with love, and safeguard it against all odds.
It is the one thing that divides you from the rest, so understand its value and never let it go to waste. Love it well with zest. Peace.
Thank you for reading.
