The Divine Gifts of Wisdom and Self-Consciousness: A Journey of Acknowledgment

Reflecting on the blessings bestowed upon us, it becomes apparent that God is indeed gracious and abundant in His gifts. Among these blessings, wisdom and self-consciousness stand out as some of the most significant and profound gifts that elevate us as human beings.

Wisdom from God

Like many of us, I too have received a remarkable set of gifts from God. My family, especially my devoted and forgiving wife, and my well-adjusted and employed daughters, attest to the grace He has extended to me and, indeed, to countless others. The Quran speaks of the value of wisdom, stating, 'He who is given wisdom is given good in abundance' (Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 269).

Throughout history, those who have sought wisdom have often been referred to as 'men of doors' in the Quran, which means 'men of knowledge.' These individuals are characterized by their devotion to Allah and their continuous contemplation of the creation around them. They reflect deeply on the purpose of existence and their place in the grand design of the universe. Often found in Surah Ale-Imran, Verse 191, this verse captures the essence of such reflections:

“And [mention] the men of aforetime, [the Prophets] when mention is made of them, they say, 'Truly, by our Lord, they have certainly been truth-tellers.'
They remember Allah while standing, sitting, and lying down, and reflect upon the creation of the heavens and the earth, [saying]: 'Our Lord, You have not created this in vain. Glory be to You; save us from the punishment of the Fire.'

True wisdom, therefore, lies in the application of this knowledge for the benefit of others, manifesting as 'profitable knowledge.' This is the essence of Islam, where opening the doors to ease and prosperity for all is paramount.

The Gift of Self-Consciousness

Another invaluable gift from God is self-consciousness. This spirit, also known as divine wisdom, is considered a noble and rare gift. It allows humans to distinguish themselves from mere animals, elevating us to the status of the crown of God's creation. However, this gift is not universal; it requires recognition and meditation to be truly appreciated.

The journey of recognizing this gift involves a profound shift in our self-identity. Traditionally, humans identify themselves with their physical bodies and minds. However, through wisdom and self-awareness, we can transcend this limited perspective and recognize the presence of the spirit within each of us. This recognition leads to the realization of unity with the universe, a state of oneness that transcends material limitations.

This understanding addresses the second part of your question:

There is no need for external declaration because the true essence of wisdom leads to the dissolution of the ego and a deep connection with the divine.

In conclusion, the gifts of wisdom and self-consciousness are not just blessings but also responsibilities. They call upon us to use our knowledge for the greater good, foster a deeper understanding of ourselves, and maintain a connection with the divine. By acknowledging and cherishing these gifts, we can live a fulfilling and meaningful life.