Characteristics of Human Nature: Forgetfulness
By admin • Nov 25th, 2025 • Category: Quran StudySession 37. All schools of thought (secular or religious) have a conception of human nature- which serves as a foundation for all their prescriptions. Islam’s sacred scripture also offers a unique view of human nature, which forms the basis for its Divine commandments and moral code. In other words, Divine commandments assume that humans have a particular mental and emotional composition. Given that composition, Divine commandments aim to secure human happiness and salvation. At a high level, the Quran views human nature as inherently good- created with a natural disposition to know and submit to God. However, human nature is flawed and susceptible to error- due to insatiable desires and the struggle between the spirit and the lower self (Nafs / نَفْس). The Quran attributes certain characteristics to human nature. In this presentation, we will explore one key such characteristic: forgetfulness (Nisyān / نسیان).
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