Nihilism Is the Nullity of the Self

I show my students that in the history of Western philosophy how the “inner” and “the self” have gradually been nullified into genes, pleasures [of body and mind and beauty], and external forces, and consequently into nihilism. So, all the genuine terms like justice, doing good, not to do shameful, blameworthy, and oppressive deeds, gradually have lost their meaning or have become historical inventions. This is where we are: look around yourself! Only those who have released themselves from this destructive path can understand following verses: “God commands justice, doing good, and generosity towards relatives and He forbids what is shameful, blameworthy, and oppressive. He teaches you, so that you may take heed. Fulfill any pledge you make in God’s name and do not break oaths after you have sworn them, for you have made God your surety: God knows everything you do. Do not use your oaths to deceive each other– like a woman who unravels the thread she has firmly spun– just because one party may be more numerous than another. God tests you with this, and on the Day of the Resurrection He will make clear to you those things you differed about. If God so willed, He would have made you all one people, but He leaves to stray whoever He will and guides whoever He will [“those who turn towards Him” (13:31)]. You will be questioned about your deeds. Do not use your oaths to deceive each other lest any foot should slip after being firmly placed and lest you should taste the penalty for having hindered others from the path of God, and suffer terrible torment. Do not sell for a small price any pledge made in God’s name: what God has [to give] is better for you, if you only knew. What you have runs out but what God has endures, and We shall certainly reward those who remain steadfast according to the best of their actions. To whoever, male or female, does good deeds and has faith, We shall give a good life and reward them according to the best of their actions.” (16:90-97)