Page 108 - Quranic Wisdom - New.indd

The Phenomenon of Degeneration

in helping one to evolve as a developed personality, is the key
to all kinds of success. It saves one from provocation, anger and
unnecessary involvement. It is a master formula by which one
can manage all the affairs of one’s life. Without self-discipline,
one is like an animal, whereas with self-discipline one becomes a
man in the complete sense of the word. Self-discipline, in setting
bounds to one’s freedom, helps one to manage one’s desires and
checks one from going astray.
Self-discipline is an act of the present, but it brings one great
benefit in the future. Self-discipline is the best formula for future
building. It saves one from saying: “Alas, I missed the bus!”

The Phenomenon of Degeneration

uslims, like other religious communities, went through
Ma phase of degeneration in their later period and matters
have not improved in the present day. What to do when this
happens? The remedy was outlined in advance in the chapter Al-
Hadid (Iron) of the Quran. The translation of the relevant verses
is as follows:
Has the time not come for the faithful when
their hearts in all humility should engage in the
remembrance of God and of the revelation of truth,
so that they should not become like those who were
given the Book before them, whose hearts with the
passage of time became hardened and many of whom
were disobedient? Remember that God brings the
earth back to life after its death. We have made Our
signs clear to you, so that you may fully understand.
(57:16-17)

107