of Nokounam Session 1855

Preface

The concepts of Al-Khayr (goodness) and Takathur (multiplicity or rivalry for increase), as two fundamental notions in the Holy Qur'an, hold a distinguished position in guiding humanity towards felicity. Al-Khayr, like a divine light, directs human beings towards perfection and salvation, whereas Takathur, like a shadow of the nafs (self), draws mankind into heedlessness and misguidance. This treatise, adopting a scholarly approach and grounded in Qur'anic verses, explores these two concepts, employing profound analyses and spiritual allegories to examine their relationship with intellect, faith, and human felicity. The objective of this work is to present a coherent and profound perspective to erudite audiences, so that through reflection upon the divine verses, they may be led towards enduring goodness and away from futile multiplicity.

Part One: The Concept of Al-Khayr and Takathur in the Holy Qur'an

The Surah Al-Takathur, with an awakening tone, cautions humans against being engrossed in the pursuit of multiplicity (Takathur). This verse introduces Takathur as a factor causing heedlessness from true goodness, which preoccupies humans even unto the verge of death and entering the graves. Takathur, as a nafs disease, drives mankind into futile competitions and boasting over possessions, status, and even the number of graves and deceased. Such heedlessness, like a dark veil, obstructs the perception of the divine light of goodness.

Qur'anic examples, such as pride in graveyards, demonstrate the depth of this heedlessness. Even in spiritual matters, humans may fall prey to Takathur and be deprived of true goodness. This verse, like a mirror, invites humans to contemplate their motives so as to liberate themselves from the snare of multiplicity.

Al-Khayr: In the Hands of God