“When Wisdom Met Fate: The Eternal Lessons of Hazrat Luqman (A.S.)”

In every era, there are a few people whose wisdom transcends time and culture — whose words shine brighter the more we reflect on them. Among such noble souls stands Hazrat Luqman (A.S.), known for his deep insight, humility, and understanding of human nature. His conversations with his son and his reflections on life are filled with lessons that continue to guide humanity centuries later.

One such story — about how intellect, modesty, love, destiny, passion, and greed revealed their true nature to him — captures the entire essence of life’s inner struggles. It’s a dialogue between the soul and the forces that shape it, showing how every emotion fights for space within us.

When Intellect First Spoke

Hazrat Luqman (A.S.) said,

“When wisdom first came to me, I asked, ‘Who are you?’ It replied, ‘I am Intellect.’ I then asked, ‘Where do you live?’ and it answered, ‘In the head.’”

This was the beginning of understanding — the awareness that the head is the throne of reason, the place where all decisions begin. Intellect is the light that guides human beings through confusion and ignorance. It helps us distinguish between right and wrong, guiding us toward justice and moderation.

Without intellect, even faith becomes blind; with intellect, even darkness can lead to discovery.

The Arrival of Modesty

Then came Modesty (Sharam).

Hazrat Luqman asked, “Who are you?”

She replied softly, “I am Modesty.”

He asked, “And where do you dwell?”

She answered, “Under the eyes.”

This simple answer carried profound wisdom. The eyes reflect the state of the soul. When modesty resides beneath them, they lower themselves from what is forbidden, protecting both heart and mind from corruption.

But when modesty departs, the eyes lose their light — not the light of sight, but the light of purity.

Hazrat Luqman realized that the strength of modesty is not in hiding, but in protecting dignity.

The Gentle Touch of Love

Soon after, Love (Muhabbat) arrived.

He asked her, “Where do you live?”

Love replied, “In the heart.”

Love’s home is the heart — the source of all compassion, mercy, and tenderness. But love is also fragile; it cannot live where hatred or greed exist. It brings warmth to life, but it also demands sacrifice and patience.

Hazrat Luqman (A.S.) understood that a heart filled with true love has no room for envy, arrogance, or malice. It beats not only for itself but for all creation.When Destiny Entered the Room

After love came Destiny (Taqdeer).

Hazrat Luqman asked, “Where do you live?”

Destiny replied, “I live in the head.”

He was surprised and said, “But Intellect already lives there!”

Destiny smiled and answered, “When I arrive, Intellect departs.”

This exchange reveals one of life’s deepest truths — when fate takes its course, logic becomes powerless. No matter how wise, wealthy, or strong a person may be, destiny always has the final word.

It teaches humility: that our plans are limited, but Allah’s plan is perfect. When destiny steps in, all human reasoning bows in silence.

The Storm Called Passion

Then came Passion (Ishq) — wild, restless, and consuming.

Hazrat Luqman asked, “Who are you?”

He replied with trembling words, “I am Love — Ishq.”

“Where do you dwell?” asked Luqman.

“In the eyes,” came the answer.

Hazrat Luqman said in surprise, “But that is where Modesty lives.”

Ishq smiled and said, “True, but when I arrive, Modesty departs.”

What a powerful truth! Passion blinds modesty, reason, and sometimes even morality. It can elevate a soul to divine love or destroy it in the fire of obsession.

Hazrat Luqman realized that when desire takes control of sight, purity fades — and only those who keep their passion within the boundaries of wisdom remain safe.

When Greed Knocked at the Heart

Finally came Greed (Tama‘).

Hazrat Luqman asked, “Who are you?”

She said, “I am Greed.”

He asked, “Where do you live?”

She replied, “In the heart.”

Hazrat Luqman said, “But Love already resides there.”

Greed laughed and said, “Yes, but when I come, Love departs.”

This was the saddest truth of all. Where greed settles, love cannot survive. The heart that once beat with compassion and kindness becomes narrow and selfish.

Luqman (A.S.) concluded that greed is not just a desire for wealth — it is the hunger that blinds a person to others’ needs. It kills mercy and chases endless wants.

Conclusion: The Balance of the Soul

Through this profound reflection, Hazrat Luqman (A.S.) revealed the eternal conflict within every human being — the constant struggle between reason and destiny, modesty and passion, love and greed.

Each emotion has a place in us, but only wisdom can keep them balanced. When intellect leads, modesty protects, love flourishes, and greed stays silent. But when destiny and desire take over, chaos replaces peace.

His message echoes through time:

Guard your heart, protect your eyes, and never let greed or passion replace love and reason.”

For in this balance lies the secret of peace, purity, and purpose.