What is Envy?

 

Envy can be defined as a feeling of discontent or resentful longing triggered by someone else's possessions, qualities, or talents. It embodies the desire to possess a gift, blessing, or talent that belongs to another individual.

 

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Why is Envy Important?

 

Envy plays a significant role as it can drive our 'Desire' to achieve something. When this desire is rooted in selfishness, it can harm our well-being, collective goals, and relationships with our Creator and others. Conversely, if envy is channeled toward spiritual growth, it can foster greater peace and harmony within ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. 

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Envy holds significance for several reasons:

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• Self-Reflection: Recognising envy within ourselves can prompt deeper self-examination and awareness of our emotions.

• Pathway to Gratitude: Acknowledging feelings of envy can lead us to greater appreciation for our own blessings and achievements.

• Opportunities for Growth: By reflecting on envy, we can learn to turn away from negative feelings and instead use them to strengthen our relationships, fostering unity rather than division.

• Wisdom from Struggle: The challenges posed by envy can provide valuable lessons, guiding us towards repentance and encouraging us to strive for improvement in our lives.

• Testing Our Beliefs: The presence of envy, alongside other negative inclinations, serves as a test of our character and faith, challenging us to resist the temptations that arise from this deceptive emotion.

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Ultimately, understanding and addressing envy can lead to personal growth and a more fulfilling life, as we learn to navigate our feelings in a constructive manner.

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How can our 'Envy' help us?

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When channeled effectively, envy can serve as a powerful motivator, driving personal growth and enriching our relationships with ourselves, our Creator, and others. Here are the main benefits:

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• Inspiration for Self-Improvement: Envy can encourage us to adopt positive qualities we admire in others, fostering personal development.

• Encouragement for Good Deeds: It can spark self-reflection and healthy competition, promoting acts of kindness within our communities.

• Desire for Closeness to the Creator: Envy towards divine attributes can inspire us to pursue spiritual growth and deepen our relationship with our Creator.

• Mutual Growth: Envy of others' knowledge can motivate us to learn and improve, benefiting both mentors and learners.

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In summary, when we harness envy to strengthen our connections and pursue Higher Truth, we enhance our service to both our Creator and each other.

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How Envy Harms Us

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Unchecked envy can be destructive, highlighting the importance of celebrating shared achievements instead of succumbing to jealousy.

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We must reflect on our feelings of envy: What or who triggers this emotion? Is it a family member, a neighbor, or even our Creator? Why do we feel this way? Do we yearn for their qualities or status? Are we grateful for our own blessings, or do we desire more? Such questions reveal the roots of our envy, often fuelled by arrogance and ego.

If left unaddressed, envy can lead to significant harm, pushing us away from our Higher Purpose and causing relationships to deteriorate. This emotional turmoil can create a mental, emotional, and spiritual decline, affecting our well-being and connection to ourselves, our Creator, and society. When we prioritise our success at the expense of others, we become ensnared by envy.

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Envy feeds on negative traits such as arrogance, greed, and anger, causing further division and distancing us from inner peace. The more we indulge in envy, the less we engage in virtuous actions like love, compassion, and integrity. This detachment thickens the barriers around our true selves, making it harder to connect with our inner voices and the world around us. As we chase temporary pleasures, we risk losing our sense of right and wrong and become trapped in despair and confusion.

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To break free from the chains of envy, we sometimes need an external force—be it love, strength, or a humbling experience—to shatter our protective shells. This can lead us back to reality, allowing us to hear the cries for help from those around us and prompting us to mend our ways and return to our Creator. Whether through the heat of adversity or the gentle persistence of goodness, we can find redemption and reconnect with the truth within ourselves and the world.

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How Does Our Envy Harm Others?

 

It is crucial to examine how envy contributes to societal breakdown and harms others, both on a personal and global scale. This exploration prompts a series of critical questions:

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• To what extent do our words and actions, fuelled by envy, lead to illegal behaviour? The desire for what others have can drive individuals to commit acts that violate the law.

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• How many relationships suffer due to infidelity? Adultery often stems from the longing for a fellow's spouse, revealing how envy can disrupt personal bonds.

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• What motivates theft? Many steal not out of necessity, but because they covet someone else's possessions, illustrating how envy can lead to criminal behaviour.

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• How does envy escalate to violence? In extreme cases, feelings of jealousy can culminate in murder, as individuals act out against those they perceive as threats to their desires.

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• How prevalent is deception? The urge to lie and bear false witness often arises from envy of others' talents, gifts, and successes, undermining trust and integrity in relationships.

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• What role does envy play in societal collapse? The relentless pursuit of worldly pleasures and the worship of money, driven by envy, can lead to the disintegration of communities and social structures.

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• How do nations fall into conflict? International disputes frequently arise from mutual envy, as countries compete for resources, power, and prestige, resulting in suffering and loss of innocent lives.

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• How do religious divisions occur? Even within spiritual communities, envy and greed can lead to schisms, as groups split despite a shared acknowledgment of higher truths.

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Whether manifesting in personal relationships or on a global stage, envy represents a state of ingratitude and arrogance that drives us toward sin. This destructive emotion leads to disobedience of both divine and societal laws, resulting in injustice not only for ourselves but also for those around us. The ramifications of envy ripple through our families, communities, and the world at large, highlighting the urgent need to recognise and address this pervasive issue.

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Impact of Envy on Wellbeing

 

Envy is a complex emotion that can significantly affect our overall health and wellbeing across various dimensions:

 

Physical Wellbeing

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Chronic envy can lead to stress responses, resulting in:

• Release of stress hormones (cortisol and adrenaline)

• Increased blood pressure

• Weakened immune function

• Cardiovascular problems

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Additionally, it may lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms like overeating or substance abuse, further harming physical health.

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Mental Wellbeing

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Envy can cloud judgment and hinder clear thinking, leading to:

• Preoccupation with others' possessions

• Feelings of inadequacy and decreased self-esteem

• Increased anxiety and depression

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This fixation diverts attention from personal goals and achievements, resulting in persistent dissatisfaction.

 

Emotional Wellbeing

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Envy creates a tumultuous emotional landscape, fostering:

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• Resentment, bitterness, and hostility

• Strained relationships and social isolation

• Lack of positive feelings like gratitude and compassion

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This emotional imbalance can lead to loneliness and despair.

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Spiritual Wellbeing

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Envy can disconnect us from our core values and beliefs, resulting in:

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• Questioning our purpose and sense of self

• Inability to appreciate personal blessings

• Lack of fulfilment and a sense of emptiness

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This disconnection hinders spiritual growth and development.

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In conclusion, Selfish envy has profound negative effects on our overall wellbeing, influencing our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Addressing the roots of this envy can facilitate healing and promote a more balanced life, ultimately leading to healthier mindsets and stronger relationships.

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• Envy damages relationships, resulting in fragmentation and destructive behaviours that decrease harmony in homes, workplaces, and communities.

• Envy opposes gratitude, which is essential for wellbeing; appreciating our blessings diminishes envy and enhances spiritual, emotional, and mental health.

• Envy hinders forgiveness, a crucial element for healing and peace, thus limiting personal growth and the ability to mend relationships.

• As envy increases, love decreases, obstructing unconditional love and kindness, fostering arrogance, and hindering healing processes.

• Envy breeds anger and vengeance, diminishing patience and resilience, which leads to harsh judgments and destructive behaviours.

• Envy undermines compassion, peace, and righteousness, potentially resulting in mental health issues and, in extreme cases, violence.

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Ultimately, envy embodies ingratitude and arrogance, leading to sin and disobedience of moral laws, which results in injustice for ourselves and others. The ramifications of envy underscore the urgent need to confront this pervasive issue.

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What does Abrahamic Scripture teach about 'Envy?'

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Envy is addressed in various ways throughout Jewish scripture, which comprises the Tanakh (the Hebrew Bible) and other significant texts. In the context of Jewish teachings, envy is considered not just a personal failing but a social and spiritual concern that can lead to serious consequences both for the individual and the community.

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One of the earliest references to envy can be found in the story of Cain and Abel, where Cain's jealousy of Abel's favour with God leads him to commit the first murder. This narrative, found in the book of Genesis, illustrates how envy can escalate into violence and moral corruption, emphasising that such feelings should be recognised and managed before they lead to dire actions.

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The wisdom literature of the Hebrew Bible, particularly in the book of Proverbs, offers several insights into the nature of envy. Proverbs 14:30 states, "A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot." This metaphor highlights the corrosive effect that envy can have on one's health and well-being, suggesting that a peaceful and contented heart leads to a fulfilling life, while envy can lead to spiritual and physical decay.

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The teachings of Rabbinic literature, including the Talmud, further expand on the implications of envy. The sages warn that envy can lead to a host of negative behaviours, including dishonesty, strife, and a lack of gratitude for one's own blessings. For instance, the Talmud discusses how envy can disrupt community harmony and relationships, urging individuals to cultivate a sense of joy in the success of others instead of succumbing to feelings of jealousy.

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Jewish ethical teachings encourage the practice of 'hashkafa,' or a worldview that emphasises appreciation and gratitude. This perspective is seen as an antidote to envy, promoting the idea that one should focus on their own unique path and blessings rather than comparing oneself to others. The concept of 'simcha' or joy, particularly in the context of celebrating others' achievements, is often highlighted as a way to counteract the negative effects of envy.

 

In summary, Jewish scripture and teachings help us in understanding and addressing envy. By recognising its potential dangers and promoting values such as gratitude, joy, and community harmony, these texts encourage individuals to transcend envy and foster a more positive and supportive environment for themselves and those around them.

 

What does Christ teach about envy? -Envy, is addressed in various ways throughout the teachings of Christ. In the context of Christian doctrine, envy is often viewed as a sin that can lead to significant moral and spiritual consequences. Christ emphasises the importance of love, compassion, and humility, which stand in stark contrast to the destructive nature of envy.

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In the Sermon on the Mount, for instance, Jesus encourages His followers to cultivate a spirit of generosity and kindness rather than harbouring feelings of jealousy toward others. He teaches that envy can poison relationships and lead individuals away from the path of righteousness. Instead of focusing on what others possess or achieve, Christ calls His followers to rejoice in the blessings of others, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.

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The parable of the labourers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16) serves as a poignant illustration of envy. In this parable, workers who were hired later in the day received the same wage as those who had worked all day. The early workers, feeling envious and resentful, questioned the master’s fairness. This story highlights how envy can distort one’s perception of justice and fairness, leading to dissatisfaction and bitterness. Christ uses this narrative to convey the message that God’s grace and generosity are not limited by human standards, and that envy only serves to blind individuals to the abundance of God’s blessings.

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Christ’s interactions with the Pharisees reveal how envy can manifest in judgment and criticism. The religious leaders often envied Jesus’ popularity and the authority with which He taught. Their envy led them to plot against Him. This demonstrates that envy can drive individuals to act against their own values and beliefs, resulting in destructive behaviour not only toward others but also toward oneself.

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In summary, Christ’s teachings on envy are clear. He encourages His followers to reject envy in favour of love and generosity, illustrating the dangers and destructive consequences of allowing envy to take root in one’s heart. Through parables, interactions, and the teachings of His apostles, Christ imparts a profound understanding of the importance of cultivating a spirit free from envy, ultimately guiding believers toward a more fulfilling and harmonious life in accordance with God’s will.

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' Envy, or 'Hasad' in Arabic, is a complex emotion that is addressed in various ways throughout the Quran. The Quran emphasises that envy can lead to destructive consequences, both for the individual who harbours such feelings and for the community at large. It is often depicted as a negative trait that can corrupt the heart and lead to harmful actions. The Quran teaches that envy arises from a lack of contentment with one’s own blessings and a desire for what others possess. This dissatisfaction can lead to a range of negative behaviours, including resentment, ill-will, and even harm towards others.

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One of the key verses that address this issue is found in Surah Al-Falaq (Chapter 113), where believers are instructed to seek refuge from the evil of the envier when they envy. This highlights the need for protection against the destructive nature of envy. Moreover, the Quran encourages believers to cultivate gratitude and appreciation for what they have been given, rather than focusing on what others possess.

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Surah An-Nisa (Chapter 4) and Surah Al-Hadid (Chapter 57) emphasise the importance of recognizing and valuing one's own blessings as a means to combat feelings of envy. The teachings suggest that fostering a sense of community and support among individuals can help mitigate the negative impacts of envy.

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The Quran warns that envy can lead to serious consequences in the hereafter. In Surah Al-Baqarah (Chapter 2), it is mentioned that those who harbour envy might face spiritual repercussions, as such feelings can drive a wedge between people and lead them away from the path of righteousness.

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The Quran invites believers to focus on self-improvement and to celebrate the successes of others, encouraging a spirit of compassion and understanding instead of jealousy.

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In conclusion, the Quran provides profound insights into the nature of envy, illustrating its potential dangers while promoting a mindset of gratitude and community. By addressing envy directly, the Quran seeks to guide individuals towards a more harmonious existence, free from the corrosive effects of jealousy and filled with appreciation for the diverse blessings bestowed upon humanity.

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Practical Steps to Overcome Envy and Transform Darkness into Light

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1. Cultivate Gratitude

   • Regularly practice gratitude by listing things you appreciate in your life.

   • Engage with self-reflection questions on 'My Gratitude' to deepen your understanding.

2. Reflect on Envy

   • Use self-reflection questions on 'My Envy' to identify the root causes of your feelings.

   • Explore how envy can reveal your desires and aspirations.

3. Practice Self-Discipline

   • Incorporate regular prayer, meditation, or reflection into your daily routine.

   • Seek knowledge and wisdom to foster understanding and personal growth.

4. Learn from Prophetic Stories

   • Reflect on the lessons from the stories of Prophets in Abrahamic Scriptures.

   • Consider the dynamics of envy depicted in these narratives and their resolutions.

5. Engage in Selfless Acts

   • Perform acts of kindness without expecting anything in return.

   • Focus on purifying your intentions and revealing your true essence.

6. See the Good in Others

   • Practice forgiveness and seek to understand others’ perspectives.

   • Recognise the light in others, which can help illuminate your own.

7. Respond to Negativity with Positivity

   • Strive to repay negative actions with kindness and compassion.

   • Listen to others with empathy, reducing feelings of envy and resentment.

8. Seek Peace

   • Make a conscious effort to seek peace in challenging situations.

   • Practice patience and understanding when faced with adversity.

9. Commit to Truthfulness

   • Always strive to speak and act truthfully, regardless of the consequences.

   • Reflect on how honesty can lead to personal liberation from envy.

10. Surrender to a Higher Will

    • Use your free will to align with a purpose greater than yourself.

    • Focus on serving your Creator in all aspects of life.

11. Invoke Divine Guidance

    • Call upon your Creator for help and clarity in overcoming envy.

    • Meditate on the Beautiful Attributes of your Creator to inspire righteous actions.

12. Transform Darkness into Light

    • Identify the hidden treasures within your negative feelings and inclinations.

    • Use this insight to support both your own growth and that of others.

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By taking these practical steps, you can effectively overcome envy and transform negative emotions into positive actions, leading to personal growth and a deeper connection with your true essence.

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Some Scripture Quotes about Envy

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“‘Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbour as yourself. I am the Lord. Leviticus 19:18

 

You shall not covet your neighbour’s house. You shall not covet your neighbour’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbour. Exodus 20:17

 

His brothers saw that their father loved him more than all his brothers; and so they hated him and could not speak to him on friendly terms. Then Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him even more. He said to them, "Please listen to this dream which I have had..’ Genesis 37:4-11

 

They said to one another, "Here comes this dreamer! "Now then, come and let us kill him and throw him into one of the pits; and we will say, 'A wild beast devoured him.' Then let us see what will become of his dreams!" Genesis 37:19-20

 

And Sarai said to Abram, "May the wrong done me be upon you I gave my maid into your arms, but when she saw that she had conceived, I was despised in her sight May the LORD judge between you and me." But Abram said to Sarai, "Behold, your maid is in your power; do to her what is good in your sight." So Sarai treated her harshly, and she fled from her presence. Genesis 16:5-6

 

Now Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had borne to Abraham, mocking. Therefore she said to Abraham, "Drive out this maid and her son, for the son of this maid shall not be an heir with my son Isaac." Genesis 21:9-10

 

His brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the saying in mind. Genesis 37:11

 

but for Cain and for his offering He had no regard. So Cain became very angry and his countenance fell. Genesis 4:5

 

Then Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses because of the Cushite woman whom he had married (for he had married a Cushite woman); and they said, "Has the LORD indeed spoken only through Moses? Has He not spoken through us as well?" And the LORD heard it. (Now the man Moses was very humble, more than any man who was on the face of the earth.) Numbers 12:1-10

 

Then Joshua the son of Nun, the attendant of Moses from his youth, said, "Moses, my lord, restrain them." But Moses said to him, "Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the LORD'S people were prophets, that the LORD would put His Spirit upon them!" Numbers 11:28-29

 

I have seen that every labor and every skill which is done is the result of rivalry between a man and his neighbor. This too is vanity and striving after wind. Ecclesiastes 4:4

 

“For anger slays the foolish man,

And jealousy kills the simple. Job 5:2

 

They assembled together against Moses and Aaron, and said to them, “You have gone far enough, for all the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the Lord is in their midst; so why do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the Lord?” Numbers 16:3

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When they became envious of Moses in the camp, And of Aaron, the holy one of the LORD, The earth opened and swallowed up Dathan, And engulfed the company of Abiram. And a fire blazed up in their company; The flame consumed the wicked. Psalm 106:16-18

 

Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him; and he said, "They have ascribed to David ten thousands, but to me they have ascribed thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?" Saul looked at David with suspicion from that day on. 1 Samuel 18:8-9

 

For as long as the son of Jesse lives on the earth, neither you nor your kingdom will be established. Therefore now, send and bring him to me, for he must surely die.” 1 Samuel 20:31

 

A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. Proverbs 14:30

 

Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy? Proverbs 27:4

 

You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. James 4:2-3

 

Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Psalm 37:1-3

 

But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. James 3:14-16

 

Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. 7 Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one’s house for love, it would be utterly scorned. Song of Songs 8:6-7

 

For jealousy arouses a husband’s fury, and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge. Proverbs 6:34

 

Then my wrath against you will subside and my jealous anger will turn away from you; I will be calm and no longer angry. Ezekiel 16:42

 

Do not let your heart envy sinners, but live in the fear of the Lord always. Proverbs 23:17

 

Do not be envious of evil men, nor desire to be with them; For their minds devise violence, And their lips talk of trouble. Proverbs 24:1-2

 

Do not envy a man of violence and do not choose any of his ways. Proverbs 3:31

 

Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and slander. 1 Peter 2:1

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"Call now, is there anyone who will answer you? And to which of the holy ones will you turn? "For anger slays the foolish man, And jealousy kills the simple.” Job 5:1-2

 

therefore as I live,” declares the Lord God, “I will deal with you according to your anger and according to your envy which you showed because of your hatred against them; so I will make Myself known among them when I judge you. Ezekiel 35:11

 

Then this Daniel began distinguishing himself among the commissioners and satraps because he possessed an extraordinary spirit, and the king planned to appoint him over the entire kingdom. Then the commissioners and satraps began trying to find a ground of accusation against Daniel in regard to government affairs; but they could find no ground of accusation or evidence of corruption, inasmuch as he was faithful, and no negligence or corruption was to be found in him. Daniel 6:3-4

 

Now Jacob heard the words of Laban’s sons, saying, “Jacob has taken away all that was our father’s, and from what belonged to our father he has made all this wealth.” Genesis 31:1

 

being filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, greed, evil; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, malice; they are gossips,.. Romans 1:29

 

Yet all of this does not satisfy me every time I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the king’s gate.” Esther 5:13

 

For he was aware that the chief priests had handed Him over because of envy. Mark 15:10

 

But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. James 3:14

 

For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. James 3:16

 

But she said to her, “Is it a small matter for you to take my husband? And would you take my son’s mandrakes also?” So Rachel said, “Therefore he may lie with you tonight in return for your son’s mandrakes.” Genesis 30:15

 

Abel, on his part also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of their fat portions And the LORD had regard for Abel and for his offering; but for Cain and for his offering He had no regard So Cain became very angry and his countenance fell. Then the LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? Genesis 4:4-8

 

Do not covet what God has given to some of you in preference to others. For men is a share of what they have earned, and for women is a share of what they have earned. And ask God of his bounty. God has knowledge of everything. Quran 4:32

 

Or do they envy people for what Allah has given them of His bounty? Quran 4:54

 

“Many of the People of the Scripture wish they could turn you back to disbelief after you have believed, out of envy from themselves [even] after the truth has become clear to them…” Quran 2:109

 

In the name of God, the Gracious, the Merciful. Say, “I take refuge with the Lord of Daybreak. From the evil of what He created. And from the evil of the darkness as it gathers. And from the evil of those who practice sorcery. And from the evil of an envious when he envies.” Quran chapter 113

 

When they said, “Joseph and his brother are dearer to our father than we are, although we are a whole group. Our father is obviously in the wrong. “Kill Joseph, or throw him somewhere in the land, and your father‘s attention will be yours. Afterwards, you will be decent people.” Quran 12:8-9

 

And relate to them the true story of Adam's two sons: when they offered an offering, and it was accepted from one of them, but it was not accepted from the other. He Said, “I will kill you.” He Said, “God accepts only from the righteous.” “If you extend your hand to kill me, I will not extend my hand to kill you; for I fear God, Lord of the Worlds.” “I would rather you bear my sin and your sin, and you become among the inmates of the Fire. Such is the reward for the evildoers.” Then His soul prompted him to kill his brother, so he killed him, and became one of the losers. Quran 5:27-30

 

“And Allah has favoured some of you over others in provision. But those who were favoured would not hand over their provision to those whom their right hands possess so they would be equal to them therein. Then is it the favour of God they reject?” Quran 16:71

 

They became divided only after knowledge came to them, out of resentment among themselves. Were it not for a predetermined decision from your Lord, judgment would have been pronounced between them. Indeed, those who were made to inherit the Book after them are in grave doubt about it. Quran 42:14

 

If God were to increase the provision to His servants, they would transgress on earth; but He sends down in precise measure whatever He wills. Surely, regarding His servants, He is Expert and Observant. Quran 42:27

 

When We said to the angels, “Bow down before Adam,” they bowed down, except for Satan. He said, “Shall I bow down before someone You created from mud?” He said, “Do You see this one whom You have honored more than me? If You reprieve me until the Day of Resurrection, I will bring his descendants under my sway, except for a few.” He said, “Begone! Whoever of them follows you—Hell is your reward, an ample reward.” “And entice whomever of them you can with your voice, and rally against them your cavalry and your infantry, and share with them in wealth and children, and make promises to them.” But Satan promises them nothing but delusion. “As for My devotees, you have no authority over them.” Your Lord is an adequate Guardian. Quran 17:61-65

 

Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. They are free from common human burdens; they are not plagued by human ills. Therefore pride is their necklace; they clothe themselves with violence. From their callous hearts comes iniquity their evil imaginations have no limits. They scoff, and speak with malice; with arrogance they threaten oppression. Their mouths lay claim to heaven, and their tongues take possession of the earth. Therefore their people turn to them and drink up waters in abundance. They say, “How would God know? Does the Most High know anything?” This is what the wicked are like—always free of care, they go amassing wealth. Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure and have washed my hands in innocence. All day long I have been afflicted, and every morning brings new punishments. If I had spoken out like that, I would have betrayed your children. When I tried to understand all this, it troubled me deeply till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny. Surely you place them on slippery ground; you cast them down to ruin. How suddenly are they destroyed, completely swept away by terrors! They are like a dream when one awakes; when you arise, Lord, you will despise them as fantasies. When my heart was grieved and my spirit embittered, I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before you. Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel,and afterward you will take me into glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Those who are far from you will perish; you destroy all who are unfaithful to you. But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds. Psalm 73

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