and admiration, while being kind at home brings no worldly fame or recognition. Therefore, they remain “sweet” only in public!

Similarly, there are Islamic brothers who go to great lengths in performing mustahab (recommended) acts but neglect their farāˈiḍ (obligatory duties), such as obeying their parents, raising their children according to Islamic teachings, or acquiring essential Islamic knowledge for themselves. This account contains a warning for them too.

The reality is that those good deeds which bring fame and praise are performed with great enthusiasm, even if they are difficult, because the satisfaction gained from the love of fame makes the greatest tasks seem easy. Remember, love for fame only leads to destruction.

Important Madani pearls regarding love for fame

Dear Islamic brothers! Here are some Madani pearls regarding love for fame taken from Iḥyā al-ꜤUlūm, volume 3, pages 616 to 617:

(Love for fame and ostentation) are among the spiritual diseases that destroy the soul and are counted among the hidden traps of the nafs. Scholars, worshippers, and those striving for the Hereafter often fall prey to them. Such people make great efforts in acts of worship, in suppressing their desires, and even in protecting themselves from doubtful matters. They may keep their limbs safe from outward sins, yet they seek comfort for their nafs by showing their good deeds, religious services, and efforts for spreading righteousness before people.

They may say things such as “I did this,” “I did that,” “I gave a speech there,” “I have another speech here,” “These are the dates I have been booked for speeches or Prophetic odes,” “Last night our Madani mashwarah went on till late; that’s why my voice is weak,” “I’m travelling on a Madani Qafilah, and I’ve already travelled to such and such cities and countries for religious work.”