Activating the Principle of Self-Compassion According to Imam Nursi: An Analytical Study

Abstract

This research highlights the understanding of the concept of compassion and the methods of implementing it in our daily lives, based on the teachings of the great scholar, Said Nursi (may Allah have mercy on him). Nursi considered compassion and kindness as the highest manifestations of humanity, warning that neglecting them could result in the pain of emotional distress and psychological torment. He also emphasized that self-compassion forms a connection with God, who manifests His mercy and answers prayers by addressing even the smallest needs of His creation. Nursi viewed self-compassion as the highest embodiment of divine mercy, containing a radiant elixir and surpassing love in its greatness. He referred to the example of Prophet Jacob in Surat Yusuf as evidence of the importance of compassion and its role in achieving divine mercy. He highlighted the significant relevance of activating this concept in an era where values of mercy and compassion have diminished, leaving humanity in a state of civilizational disarray. Although much has been said in Islamic tradition about the concept of compassion, Nursi’s discourse stands out for its uniqueness and originality, making it a pioneering and innovative contribution. To achieve the objectives of this study, the inductive method is employed to trace elements of the topic in the Risale-i Nur collection by the brilliant Nursi. Additionally, the analytical method is used to discuss his ideas on compassion and how they can be activated in the context of contemporary reality. The research has reached significant conclusions, including the following: Nursi underscores the importance of applying five fundamental principles during times of chaos and division: mutual respect, compassion and mercy, avoiding prohibitions, maintaining security, rejecting disorder and anarchy, and adhering to obedience. The study has demonstrated that Nursi believed that activating the principle of self-compassion in our lives leads to divine orientation and connection with the Merciful God. He considered the Divine Names Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful) and Ar-Rahim (The Most Compassionate) as sources of immense light that envelop the entire universe, granting every soul strength and brightness and saving it from its adversaries. Furthermore, he held that poverty coupled with gratitude and weakness alongside self-compassion are the primary means of attaining this great divine light.