Life Supreme — Page 39
42. LIFE SUPREME. The object of existence is self-purification. "Verily he truly prospers who purifies himself. " (87:15). A true believer yearns to find divine protection in the lap of God where he is no longer influenced by the power of satan. The upward climb to this holy sanctuary requires self exertion and the assisting hand of God which He is ever ready to offer to those who strive to reach Him. . The Islamic way of life is a disciplined one calling for obedience, endeavour and constant watchfulness; and the backbone of discipline is self-control. The spiritual life of a Muslim should be a progressive one; and the greater the measure of self-control he cultivates, the greater will be his progress; for this quality is indeed the balance wheel of life by which the whole character and conduct of a man is affected for the better or the worse. . Study the lives of Prophets, saints and holy men of God and it will be seen to what great extent self-control was the directing power contributing to their spiritual poise and charm. . Self-control governed every act, word and movement of the Holy. Prophet Muhammad (may peace be on him). He never swerved from his path of duty and exercised the utmost patience under the severest hardships and provocations. He was the embodiment of charm, patience, forbearance, truthfulness, honesty, courage, justice and all the other noble virtues of Islam. He was indeed-as Hazrat. Ayesha declared - an embodiment of the Holy Quran. . . The life and character of the Promised Messiah-Hazrat Mirza. Ghulam Ahmad, the Holy Founder of the Ahmadiyya Movementwas also spiritually poised and a delightful exhibition of perfect self control. Nothing ruffled his composure though no other man in his time was ever more abused and misrepresented; and the responsibilities on his shoulders were immense. He placed complete reliance on God and had absolute confidence in the ultimate success of his mission. He was not disturbed by temporary setbacks; nor was he ever inflamed by the enmity and derision of his opponents. He said: "The feeling of mercy is influx in my heart and I have reduced the feeling of resentment and anger in my mental attitude. ' (Reported by Maulvi Abdul Karim)