OBSTACLES TO ACCEPTING THE TRUTH

someone else that everything they say seems correct. Whatever they say about any issue is viewed as the ultimate truth, and they are subconsciously elevated to a standard of truth. Such a person either avoids considering others’ views altogether or, even if they do consider them, they have developed a specific taste that makes others’ words unappealing. It’s as if their taste buds have become so used to one flavor that they cannot appreciate any other. Often, this happens completely unconsciously—they believe they are honoring someone for religious reasons, but in reality, they have fallen prey to idolizing personalities, a disease more damaging to their intellect than even tuberculosis or cancer. One educated Muslim I know is deeply influenced by a certain author. I showed him a passage from the said author’s book, which was clearly contradictory to Quranic teachings. After explaining my assessment, I asked for his thoughts on the matter. The difference was so obvious that I was sure any impartial person would agree. Yet, after reading the passage several times, his response was, “I believe this is absolutely correct; there is nothing in it that contradicts the Quran.” By God, as he spoke these words, I could see the color drain from his face. It was clear that his understanding was struggling to accept this, yet the only obstacle was