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November 20, 2007
the aim of moral discipline
An exact philosophical knowledge of the spirit is not a necessary preliminary to walking in the path of religion, but comes rather as a result of self-discipline and perseverance in that path, as it is said in the Koran: “Those who strive in Our way, verily We will guide them to the right paths.”
For the carrying on of the spiritual warfare by which the knowledge of oneself and of God is to be obtained, the body maybe figured as a kingdom, the soul as its king, and the different senses and faculties as constituting an army. Reason may be called the prime minister, passion the revenue-collector, and anger the police officer.
The aim of moral discipline is to purify the heart from the rust of passion and resentment, till, like a clear mirror, it reflects the light of God.
Ghazali - The Alchemy of Happiness
Posted by amin at November 20, 2007 11:59 PM