Path of Tarbiyah

TEHRAN (IQNA) – One way for Tarbiyah, namely rectifying one’s character which is emphasized in the Quran, is training one practically and spiritually in such a way that the roots of moral vices are removed in his character.

If a person does something for other than God out of Riya (falsely making oneself appear to be virtuous, good natured or a true believer before people for the sake of earning their respect and admiration) it is either because of fear or in order to gain some respect. Such a person should read the Quran, including Verse 65 of Surah Yunus, “All dignity belongs to God.” and Verse 165 of Surah Al-Baqarah, “No doubt that to God belongs All-power,” to realize that dignity and power only belongs to God. That way, there would be no room for someone to show Riya and pretention. He would not be afraid of anyone nor would he pin hopes on others.

If such a certainty enters one’s heart, it would remove all moral vices and strengthens virtues.

God has said many times in the Quran that He is the only true owner of everything that is there in heavens and earth. When someone truly comprehends this notion, he would realize that no being is independent of God and that all beings are finite and need and are dependent on God. Such a person will never seek anything but the truth and God.  

Verses of the Quran that pursue such an educational method in ethics are numerous.

They include the following:

Verse 8 of Surah Taha: “God is the only Lord and to Him belong all the exalted Names.”

Verse 7 of Surah Sajdah: “It is He Who created everything in the best manner.”

Verse 111 of Surah Taha: “Faces will be humble before the Everlasting and the Self-existing God.”

Verse 116 of Surah Al-Baqarah: “All are obedient to Him.”