The Real Shiites’ Characteristics in Imam Mohammad Bagher (PBUP)’s Wills (5)

Ayatollah Allame Mohammad-Taqi Mesbah

Abstract

This paper is a commentary on the advices of Imam Mohammad Bagher (PBUH) to Jabir b. Yazid al-Ju’fi, one of his noble companions, regarding the characteristics of the real Shiites. On this account, another characteristic of the Shiites is “Jihad with the soul” to overcome the desires of the soul. Although seeking Divine pleasure and avoiding divine prohibitions seem to be simple, it is very difficult to obtain. If one loves God, seeks to attract the love of God, too. In the struggle with the soul, the believer opposes desires to avoid deviation and obtain the love of God, though he may sometimes be defeated. In his advice, Imam Bagher (PBUH) said, if a believer is defeated in the struggle with the soul, he should not be disappointed, rather, he should do his best to win over his desires. Satisfaction with God in all matters is the secret behind servitude and strengthening faith and attaining perfection.

Keywords: soul, Jihad, Divine help, the struggle with the soul, knowledge and insight.