Book Name:Condemnation of desiring fame
Unimpressed, the king said: “I do not see any virtue in him,” and left.
After the king departed, the pious man said: “Praise be to Allah Who kept the king away from me. It is good that the king was not impressed by me, but rather spoke against me. This has protected me from desiring fame and showing off.”[1]
Dear Islamic brothers, you heard how our pious predecessors رَحِمَهُمُ الـلّٰـهُ disliked seeking status among people or gaining respect and fame from kings and rulers. These saints would distance themselves from worldly recognition, honours, and pleasures, preferring seclusion.
On the other hand, many of us desire respect and recognition in all matters, not just from common people but also from the wealthy and influential. We hope to be praised, admired, and rewarded by others.
Dear Islamic brothers! If such desires arise in your heart, reflect like so: “Hearing people praise me, being admired, or gaining fame may please my ego, but it will not guarantee success in the court of Allah on the Day of Judgement. Those who praise me will be trembling in fear on the Day of Judgement.”[2]
By adopting this mindset, we can rid ourselves of the desire for fame اِنْ شَــآءَالـلّٰـه.