Why Do Some Individuals Feel a False Sense of Power Through Sin?

The feeling of a false sense of power derived from committing sins is a profound psychological and spiritual phenomenon with deep roots in human nature and external influences. From the perspective of the Holy Quran, this sensation is not only unreal but also a dangerous illusion that leads the individual towards destruction and perdition. To truly understand this complex issue, we must consider several key aspects: arrogance and pride, the deception of Satan, shortsightedness and an exclusive focus on worldly gains, and the divine principle of "Istidraj," or gradual enticement. Firstly, one of the primary origins of this deceptive feeling of power is "arrogance" (kibr) and "pride" (takabbur). The Quran frequently highlights the fate of the arrogant and the transgressors. Pharaoh, who declared himself "your lord most high" and spread corruption throughout the land, serves as a quintessential example. By leveraging his immense power and wealth to oppress the Children of Israel, he cultivated an boundless sense of might and dominion. However, this apparent power yielded nothing but a humiliating drowning and eternal torment. In the Quranic view, an arrogant person is one who considers themselves self-sufficient from obedience to God, trampling upon divine laws. This defiance and rebellion, for the arrogant individual, brings forth a distorted sense of triumph over limitations, a false feeling of absolute freedom and control. When an individual commits a sin and perceives that they are not immediately punished, or even benefits materially through that sin, this can reinforce their pride. It may lead them to believe they possess a unique power that allows them to evade retribution or dominate others. This is precisely the snare laid by Satan, which we will elaborate on further. Secondly, a significant contributing factor is "the deception of Satan" (waswas al-Shaitan). Satan, humanity's clear enemy, constantly endeavors to make sin appear beautiful and appealing in the eyes of humans. Through his whispers and machinations, he conceals the ugly consequences of sin and highlights its fleeting benefits and immediate pleasures. The Quran explicitly states how Satan "beautifies" (zayyana) evil deeds for people (e.g., Surah Al-An'am, verse 43; Surah An-Nahl, verse 63). When a sin is adorned in this manner, the sinner might perceive that by committing it, they have acted shrewdly or achieved something inaccessible to others. This sense of "superiority" or "cleverness," which is in reality nothing more than an illusion, fuels their false sense of power. For instance, someone who gains wealth through deception or corruption might view themselves as more intelligent or resourceful than others, and this superficial "success" might embolden them further on the path of sin. This is despite the fact that everything Satan invites to ultimately leads to weakness, regret, and humiliation. Thirdly, "shortsightedness and an exclusive focus on worldly life" plays a crucial role. Some individuals, due to weak faith or a superficial understanding of existence, place all their focus on worldly achievements and transient pleasures. Consequently, when a sin such as theft, usury, bribery, or oppression leads to the acquisition of wealth, social standing, or a false position of authority, the individual might interpret this as a sign of their "power." They remain oblivious to the spiritual, moral, and even long-term worldly consequences of their transgressions, only fixated on the immediate, fleeting benefits. The story of Qarun (Korach) in the Quran (Surah Al-Qasas, verses 76-82) serves as a potent illustration of this mindset. Qarun, who felt powerful and self-sufficient due to his vast treasures and treated people with arrogance and pride, was ultimately swallowed by the earth along with his wealth and home. This fate unequivocally demonstrates that worldly power built upon sin and transgression is like a house constructed on sand, destined to collapse with the slightest tremor. The fleeting nature of such power is a recurrent theme in the Quran, contrasting it with the enduring power of God and the ultimate reward for righteousness. Finally, the divine principle of "Istidraj," or the gradual enticement of sinners, is a critical element. Almighty God sometimes grants respite to oppressors and sinners, not immediately punishing them. This delay, which appears to them as a form of power or immunity from punishment, is in reality a means to allow them to accumulate more sins, thereby intensifying their future torment. The Quran explicitly states: "And let not those who disbelieve think that Our postponing [their punishment] is good for them. We only postpone it for them so that they may increase in sin, and for them is a humiliating punishment." (Surah Aal-Imran, verse 178). This verse beautifully explains that the feeling of power resulting from a lack of immediate retribution is yet another deception. The sinner might erroneously assume that God favors them or is pleased with their actions, when in fact, this respite merely provides the opportunity for them to sink deeper into the quagmire of sin and rebellion. This illusion of power propels the individual towards a deeper fall and a more severe punishment, sealing their spiritual doom. In conclusion, the Holy Quran unequivocally declares that true power belongs solely to Allah. Any power utilized in disobedience to Him is inherently fragile and ephemeral. Genuine strength resides in submission to God, earning His pleasure, and living a life imbued with faith and piety. Such power bestows upon humanity inner peace, true self-worth, and eternal felicity. Conversely, the false power derived from sin brings nothing but disgrace and regret in both this world and the hereafter. A profound understanding of the distinction between genuine power and illusory power can rescue individuals from the snares of sin and its deceptions, guiding them towards a meaningful, purposeful, and tranquil life, anchored in divine truth. This clarity helps one recognize that the temporary high of sin is a mirage, leading only to spiritual drought and ultimate collapse.