THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN INFERIORITY COMPLEX AND MODESTY
Sheikhul Islam Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Taqi Uthmāni Sahib حفظه الله has said that nowadays the science of psychology has become very popular amongst people. An ‘inferiority complex’ is a subject of psychology where it is regarded as something undesirable and a patient is given medical treatment to treat this mental illness. Some people say that the virtuous trait of humility is only creating an inferiority complex which is undesirable.
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Taqi Uthmāni Sahib حفظه الله has qualified that ‘modesty’ and ‘inferiority complex’ are two completely different traits in human behaviour. Those who evolved the science of psychology are totally ignorant of Deen.
An ‘inferiority complex’ is in reality an accusation against the creation of Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله. A man suffering from this complex thinks that he has been deprived of something which should have been given to him. If a person has some physical impediments, he feels irritated and in turn becomes jealous towards others who do not have any defects. This creates in him a despondency and dejection. What one does not want to realise is that an inferiority complex is in actual fact a complaint against Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله. This is extremely detrimental to one’s Īmān.
With regards ‘modesty’, it cannot be acquired by objecting against the decree of Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله. It is acquired through making Shukr unto Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله for His bounties and favours. The one who desires to embellish his personality with modesty feels that he is not worthy of the favours and blessings but rather it is the immense favour of Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله through being endowed with His mercies.
We can thus realise the difference between an inferiority complex and modesty. Modesty is highly desirable. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah صلى الله عليه وسلم has said that modesty elevates the honour and dignity of the one who practices it. As against this, pride brings disgrace and humiliation. The man who commits himself to acquiring the bounty of modesty is favoured and honoured by Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله provided he is true and sincere.
