Why do some believers suffer from spiritual arrogance?

Spiritual arrogance, also known as conceit (ʿujb), pride (kibr), or self-superiority, is one of the hidden and significant dangers on the path of spiritual growth that can afflict even devout believers and righteous individuals. This phenomenon is a state where an individual develops a sense of superiority and self-sufficiency over others due to performing acts of worship, possessing religious knowledge, or holding a specific spiritual status. This feeling becomes a major obstacle in drawing closer to God and maintaining a proper relationship with His creation. The Holy Quran explicitly and implicitly alludes to this affliction multiple times, explaining its roots and consequences. The primary root of arrogance stems from a person's ignorance of their true existential nature and neglect of God's boundless majesty and grace. Humans forget that everything they possess, including the success in worship and understanding of religion, is entirely from the favor and mercy of Allah, not from their inherent merit or ability. When this divine grace is overlooked, the human ego begins to claim ownership of these virtues, and it is here that spiritual arrogance emerges. The first and most prominent example of arrogance and haughtiness in the Quran is the story of Iblis. Iblis, a being of high devotion and status, refused to prostrate to Adam when commanded by God, out of arrogance and self-superiority. He deemed himself superior to Adam, believing he was created from fire while Adam was created from clay. This story is recounted in several places in the Quran, including Surah Al-A'raf, verse 12, and Surah Sad, verses 75-76. It imparts a profound lesson to humanity: even lengthy worship and high spiritual standing cannot guarantee immunity from falling into the trap of arrogance if true knowledge and inner humility are lacking. Iblis's arrogance not only cast him out of divine presence but also turned him into an open enemy of humanity, with his goal being to mislead people. This example illustrates how arrogance can lead a righteous being from within towards rebellion and disobedience. The Quran also uses terms such as 'ashar' (exultant), 'batar' (ungrateful arrogance), 'farah' (excessive joy leading to arrogance), 'khawal' (boasting about wealth), and 'marah' (walking proudly) to refer to various forms of pride and haughtiness. In Surah Luqman, verse 18, it states: "And do not turn your cheek toward people with contempt or walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful." This verse clearly indicates that arrogance and self-display in behavior are condemned by God, and spiritual arrogance is no exception. Furthermore, in Surah Ghafir, verse 35, Allah condemns those who dispute concerning His signs without any authority, saying: "Thus does Allah seal over every heart of an arrogant tyrant." This verse serves as a serious warning that arrogance can harden a person's heart, making it resistant to truth, and preventing the understanding of divine realities. This sealing of the heart is a consequence of a person's own actions, where through arrogance, they deprive themselves of divine grace. Moreover, a significant root of spiritual arrogance is 'tazkiyat al-nafs' or self-praise. In Surah An-Najm, verse 32, we read: "So do not assert purity for yourselves; He is most knowing of who is righteous." This verse explicitly teaches us not to consider ourselves pure and faultless or to boast about our good deeds. Only Allah knows the depth of intentions and true righteousness. When a believer, instead of focusing on their shortcomings and dependence on Allah, relies on their good deeds and sees themselves as superior to others, they gradually succumb to spiritual arrogance. This arrogance distorts their view of themselves, others, and even God. They might belittle others, judge them for their mistakes, and lose the ability to accept criticism. This state causes them to no longer benefit from admonitions and advice, consequently halting or even reversing their path of growth and perfection. The ways to combat spiritual arrogance are all aligned with having a true understanding of oneself and God. Firstly, constant remembrance of one's inherent need and poverty before God. The more a person is aware of their existential poverty and absolute dependence on the Creator, the less room there is for arrogance and self-conceit. Secondly, continuous gratitude for divine blessings, including the success in worship and guidance. Knowing that every good that comes to us is from God's favor strengthens humility within a person. Thirdly, avoiding judgment and belittling others. The Quran explicitly prohibits spying, backbiting, and ridiculing others (Surah Al-Hujurat, verses 11-12). A humble view of others and focusing on self-correction are strong deterrents against arrogance. Fourthly, continuous self-accountability and acknowledging mistakes and deficiencies. This constant self-reflection prevents one from falling into the trap of false perfectionism and spiritual narcissism. Finally, one must always remember that the path to Allah is a long journey, and one should never feel secure from divine subtle plans and should continue self-purification and seeking forgiveness until the end of life. True faith is manifested not only through actions but also through humility, gratitude, and sincere service to creation, and any form of arrogance or self-superiority is a sign of deficiency in this faith.