As we know, the goal set for humans in divine teachings is worship and servitude to God, as stated in the Quran:
“I have only created jinn and mankind so that they may worship Me” [1].
However, the reality is that on the path of servitude, there are obstacles such as desires of the soul and satanic whispers. Humans find themselves in a world filled with powerful and deceptive desires, such that in every step, they may fall into a trap, and with every thought or glance, face a new threat. As stated in the Quran:
“Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire—women, children, much of gold and silver, and branded horses, cattle, and land. That is the enjoyment of worldly life. But with God is the best return” [2].
On the other hand, Satan, the ancient and sworn enemy of mankind, has clearly declared his firm intention to lead all humans astray:
“I will surely sit in wait for them on Your straight path. Then I will come at them from before them and behind them, on their right and on their left, and You will not find most of them grateful” [3].
Thus, humans are exposed to harm from the lustful self and the cunning devil. Overcoming these two obstacles, which hinder servitude, requires attention, reflection, and a plan[4]. In this regard, throughout history, followers of the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them) sought guidance. For instance, a man once wrote a letter to Imam Jawad (peace be upon him) complaining about the whispers that came to his mind. In response, Imam Jawad (peace be upon him) said:
“Indeed, if God wills, He will keep you steadfast, and He will not grant Satan a path over you. Some people complained to the Prophet about the thoughts that passed through their minds. They said that it would be more pleasing to them if they were torn apart or blown far away than to speak about those whispers. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: ‘Did you understand this? (That these thoughts are very distressing to you?)’ They replied, ‘Yes.’ He said: ‘By the One in Whose hand is my soul, this is pure faith. So whenever you feel those whispers, say: ‘We believe in God and His Messenger, and there is no power or strength except by God’” [5].
These kinds of involuntary and unwanted whispers are unpleasant because they are not in harmony with our faith and beliefs. When such whispers arise, one must rely on God and remain steadfast in performing their duties, just as they have done in the past, without any hesitation. Imam Jawad’s (peace be upon him) advice reveals that one of the strategies the Imams (peace be upon them) provide to confront the pitfalls and slippery places of life is seeking refuge in God’s infinite power. If a person encounters a wild animal, they would immediately seek an escape or a powerful tool for protection rather than standing still and allowing it to harm them. This is essentially what seeking refuge in God means—seeking refuge in the All-Powerful God against Satan’s attack.
In other words, to overcome the obstacles to servitude in the ups and downs, and at the crucial points of trials and tests, remembering the belief and heartfelt faith in God and His Messenger, renewing the covenant of servitude, and seeking refuge and assistance from the Creator is the solution. For all power and will are from Him, and He is capable of everything.
Finally, it is important to note that this solution—like many other solutions—requires perseverance and continuity, and any potential setbacks on this path should not weaken one’s determination and resolve.
Footnotes:
[1] Surah Dhariyat, verse 56
[2] Surah Al-Imran, verse 14
[3] Surah Al-A’raf, verses 16-17
[4] The presence of obstacles on the path of servitude is a matter of wisdom, including the testing of servants.
[5] Usul al-Kafi, Volume 4, Chapter on Whispers and the Thoughts of the Soul, Hadith 4