Imam Al-Ghazali on Self-Delusion by: Abu Hamid al-Ghazali

Imam al-Ghazali delves into the core of our predicament by exposing undesirable qualities of the heart, such as arrogance, pride, ostentation, and the pursuit of fame.

Imam al-Ghazali delves into the core of our predicament by exposing undesirable qualities of the heart, such as arrogance, pride, ostentation, and the pursuit of fame. The importance of ikhlas (sincerity) is the root of what he is alluding to.

The text examines the various religious activities that take place in a believers life, be they the construction of masjids, the delivery of lectures, charitable contributions in the name of Allah ﷻ, or the recitation of the Qur’an. Imam al-Ghazali’s articulation of these matters persuades the reader to remain vigilant in every aspect of the Religion.

His overarching theme throughout the book revolves around the term ghurür which, in the context of this work, can be translated as self-deception. As seen in many of his other writings, he provides compelling examples that resonate with all readers.