True success in life comes not from words, but from sincere actions that lead to spiritual growth. The greatest obstacles on this path are the self (nafs), the world, and Satan. Of these, Satan plays a powerful and cunning role in pulling people away from the remembrance of Allah by using worldly attractions and internal desires.

Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen explains that anything that distracts a person from Allah is “the world”—and this very world is Satan’s tool. The Quran confirms this in sura At-Takathur, where Allah says that the desire for more has distracted people until they reached their graves. The words of Ali (ra) further strengthen this message: “Lighten your burden so you may catch up with those who move ahead.” In this journey of suluk ilallah (the path to Allah), the heart is like a ship sailing through a storm. The lighter it is—free from desires and attachments—the easier the journey. The Qur’an also warns in Surah Az-Zalzalah that every small deed, good or evil, will be seen on the Day of Judgment. And in sura Bani Isra’il Allah commands, “Read your book; today you are enough to take account of yourself.” These verses prove that no one—not even Satan—will be responsible for your choices but you alone.

The concept of self-awareness is beautifully expressed by the Master of the Universe and the Gate of Knowledge, Ali ibn Abi Talib. He said, “It is enough of an ignorance for a person not to recognize their own worth and status.”

A human being is not merely a combination of flesh and bones. They are gifted with immense potential. Among all creations, humans are superior because they possess consciousness, intellect, and understanding. These are the very powers that enable one to distinguish between right and wrong, benefit and harm.

The essence of Ali’s wisdom lies in this: true human dignity is found in recognizing one’s own reality. Even if someone possesses knowledge of the entire world but remains unaware of their own self, they are worse off than animals because while animals are not capable of self-recognition, a human being is. And if one has this gift yet chooses not to use it, there is no greater ignorance than that.
The concept of self-awareness is beautifully expressed by the Master of the Universe and the Gate of Knowledge, Ali ibn Abi Talib. He said, “It is enough of an ignorance for a person not to recognize their own worth and status.”
Iqbal says:

Ye Payam De Gae Hai Mujhay Bad e Sajgahi

Kay Khudi Kay Arifon Ka Hai Maqam Padshahi

Teri Zindagi Isi Se, Teri Abroo Isi Se

Jo Rahi Khudi To Shahi, Na Rahi To Rusyahi

Explanation:

“This message reached me after long prostrations—That those who truly know the self are destined for sovereignty.”