The recent teaching invites us to examine the very essence of what it means to live with honor in our human condition. It begins by reminding believers that God created two categories of people: those inclined toward good and those drawn to evil, those who follow their inner self (nafs) and those who resist it. Beyond humanity, three tiers of creation are described—angels, animals, and humans—each endowed with distinct gifts.
Angels possess intellect alone; they lack the pull of desire (şehvet). Animals, by contrast, act purely on instinctual drive without rational insight. Humans occupy a unique middle ground: we have both reason and desire. The teaching warns that when our lower desires dominate over our intellect, we descend below even the status of animal, losing the noble stature intended for us. Conversely, if we allow intellect to guide and master desire, we can rise above the angels in moral rank.
Because many struggle to balance these forces, the teacher repeatedly advises surrendering one’s own reasoning to a trustworthy guide—someone whose intellect is exercised responsibly and who can help discipline our passions. By placing ourselves under such guidance, we create a safeguard against the ever‑present whisper of Satan, which seeks to tip the scale in favor of the nafs until the Day of Judgment.
Self‑inspection becomes essential: if our desires repeatedly overpower our reason, it signals that we have either strayed from a reliable mentor or neglected the practice of refining our intellect. The teaching encourages each person to regularly evaluate whether the heart or the mind holds sway. When the heart is drawn toward forbidden sights—whether it be another’s spouse, an unfamiliar woman on the street, or any temptation that breaches marital fidelity—the individual is identified as one whose desire has triumphed over reason, placing him beneath even animal nature.
Ultimately, the plea concludes with a prayer: may God create us as servants who act according to our true purpose, preserve their dignity, and remain steadfast in obedience. By striving constantly to let intellect dominate desire, we honor the divine trust placed within each human being.
If this reflection resonates with you, consider deepening your practice through guided gatherings where seasoned teachers help align the heart and mind. You can explore upcoming live meetings here: https://royalottomans.com/live-meetings. May we all walk the path of honor together, ever mindful of the balance between reason and desire.
