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An Analysis of the Phenomenon of Self-Purification in the Process of Quranic Upbringing, with Emphasis on Verses 49 of Surah An-Nisa and 32 of Surah An-Najm
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Mohammad Shrifani *1   , Hossein Barzegar , Hossein ali Moradi zanjani |
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Abstract: (2 Views) |
| The ultimate goal of the Quranic educational system is for the human being to attain servitude to God and divine proximity through continuous self-purification; however, the most profound ailment disrupting this process is "self-righteousness"—or a blameworthy form of self-purification. This study aims to elucidate the nature of this phenomenon and the reasons behind the Quran’s prohibition of it, while analyzing its destructive mechanisms within the process of human spiritual development. Employing a qualitative content analysis method and an interdisciplinary approach (drawing on exegesis, ethics, and psychology), the article examines two key verses: "Have you not seen those who claim purity for themselves..." (An-Nisa: 49) and "...do not claim purity for yourselves" (An-Najm: 32). The findings indicate that distinguishing between the self—viewed as a divine trust and the locus of spiritual perfection—and the *nafs al-ammarah* (the soul that commands evil)—viewed as the source of self-conceit—is the key to understanding this spiritual ailment.The findings reveal that the notion of self-purity disrupts the process of spiritual upbringing through four fundamental mechanisms: 1) halting spiritual progress due to a perceived lack of need for self-reform; 2) usurping the station of Lordship by declaring independence from divine purification, thereby leading to the fabrication of lies against God; 3) reinforcing barriers to guidance through vanity and arrogance; and 4) undermining the capacity for discernment by distorting the criteria distinguishing truth from falsehood. At a societal level, it also paves the way for a sense of racial superiority. An integrated analysis—drawing upon the traditions of the Infallibles (AS), the views of Tabataba'i and Fakhr Razi, the thoughts of Ayatollah Khamenei and Motahhari, and analytical psychology—demonstrates that self-aggrandizement constitutes a form of self-forgetfulness and self-alienation, rather than true self-awareness. Consequently, rectifying one's perspective, cultivating the inner capacity to embrace divine purification, and engaging in humble, vigilant practice serve as the means to safeguard against this spiritual malady and to realize true spiritual upbringing. |
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| Keywords: Self-righteousness, purification of the soul, moral upbringing, educational exegesis. |
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Full-Text [PDF 634 kb]
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2026/07/21 | Accepted: 2026/10/2 | Published: 2026/10/2
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