Self-Building and Self-Knowledge: Two Sides of the Same Coin

There is no aim loftier or more sublime for the human being than "self-building," which represents the ultimate purpose of his creation. Yet it should be noted that "self-building" and "self-knowledge" are linked and intertwined to a great extent, so much so that one may say they are two sides of the same coin. "Self-building" is nothing other than striving to raise the self ever higher on the ladder of humanity, and how can one speak of the self's ascent without speaking of knowledge of the self?! "Self-knowledge," and knowledge of the essence of the human being's existence, must therefore be made the axis and focal point of "self-building."

The Path to Self-Knowledge

If someone wishes to attain knowledge of the essence of human existence and of the human self, the best path is to return to this self, to plunge into its depths and to discover its reality, together with the inner faculties and innate inclinations that have been placed within it. After that, one begins the effort to discover the optimal path that secures the best use of these inner faculties and the fullest investment of these innate inclinations in pursuit of the fundamental aim and true happiness. Once a person knows this path, he is able to set sail towards building this self.