Session 5: The Blameworthy Nature of Ostentation - Amjad Tarsin | Book 28 Retreat

In Book 28, Imam al-Ghazali addresses two extremely destructive diseases of the heart: love of status and ostentation. Allah Ta’ala states in the Quran: “As for the abode of the hereafter, We grant it ‘only’ to those who do not seek to exalt themselves on earth, nor to spread corruption...” [28:83] The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: “Love of wealth and status is more ruinous to a Muslim’s religion that two vicious wolves in a stable of sheep.” With respect to ostentation, Allah Ta’ala states, “So woe to those ‘hypocrites’ who pray, yet are unmindful of their prayers; those who ‘only’ show off.” [107:4-6] The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said, ”Verily, the most dreadful thing I fear for you is the minor association of partners with Allah.” When asked what is that, he ﷺ responded, “Ostentation.” In On Status and Ostentation, we will delve into Imam al-Ghazali’s discussion and treatment of these vices, including among other things, their reality, how they arise in the heart, their cure, and much more.