This teaching asks what it means to live with honour as a human being. It begins by reminding believers that God created two kinds of people: those inclined toward good and those drawn to evil, those who follow their lower self (nafs) and those who resist it. Beyond humanity, three orders of creation are described—angels, animals and humans—each with distinct gifts.
Angels possess intellect alone; they have no pull of desire (şehvet). Animals act on instinct without rational insight. Humans stand in a unique middle position: we have both reason and desire. When our lower desires rule over our intellect, the teaching warns, we fall below even the animals and lose the noble rank intended for us. If instead intellect guides and masters desire, we can rise above the angels.
Because many struggle to keep this balance, the teacher repeatedly advises entrusting one’s own reasoning to a trustworthy guide—someone whose intellect is used responsibly and who can help discipline our passions. Placing ourselves under such guidance protects us from the constant whispering of Satan, who seeks to tip the scale toward the nafs until the Day of Judgement.
Self-examination is essential. If our desires keep overpowering our reason, we have either strayed from a reliable guide or neglected to refine our intellect. Each person is encouraged to ask regularly whether the heart or the mind holds sway. When the heart is drawn toward what is forbidden—another’s spouse, an unfamiliar woman on the street, or any temptation that breaks marital fidelity—desire has triumphed over reason, placing that person beneath even animal nature.
The teaching closes with a prayer: may God make us servants who live according to our true purpose, keep their dignity and remain steadfast in obedience. By striving to let intellect govern desire, we honour the divine trust placed in every human being.
If this reflection speaks to you, you can deepen your practice in guided gatherings where experienced teachers help bring heart and mind into balance. Explore our upcoming live meetings.
