Book Name:The Devastating Consequences of Following Carnal Desires
unresponsive to virtuous counsel and we lack devotion in worship for this very reason. Therefore, we should derive a lesson from this parable: instead of extinguishing the radiant lamp of our lives by falling into vain desires and the pursuit of lusts, we should lead a life of virtue in accordance with the Sunnah.
Definition: Following Carnal Desires (IttibāꜤ al-Shahawāt)
Be it known that “following carnal desires” (IttibāꜤ al-Shahawāt) refers to the state of becoming engrossed in fulfilling every desire of the nafs without any regard for what is permissible or impermissible.[1] Certainly, pursuing desires leads to nothing but total loss, the gravity of which can be gauged from the following Hadith.
The holy Prophet صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم stated:
“Three things lead to destruction: (1) remaining lost in greed and avarice; (2) following sensual desires; and (3) self-admiration.”[2]
Dear Islamic brothers! If we succeed in eradicating sensual desires, then, اِنْ شَــآءَالـلّٰـه, the evil habit of greed will also depart, and we will be granted salvation from various sins. Consequently, our inner selves will become purified, and we will be blessed with the delight of performing worship with true humility. اِنْ شَــآءَالـلّٰـه.
صَلُّوۡا عَلَى الۡحَبِيۡب صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلٰى مُحَمَّد