Worship Arrogance Destroys Good Deeds: Agha Syed Baqar Hussaini

Shiite News: Addressing a weekly ethical sermon at the Central Jamia Mosque, Skardu, Baltistan, President of Anjuman-e-Imamia Baltistan, Agha Syed Baqar Hussaini, shed light on the true spirit of recognizing Ahlul Bayt (AS), particularly the reality and responsibilities associated with the Ziyarat of Imam Hussain (AS).
He stated that Ziyarat is undoubtedly a great act of worship and a lofty spiritual honor, but fulfilling the rights of people (Huqooq-ul-Ibad) before embarking on Ziyarat is essential.
If a believer has disputes, unpaid debts, outstanding Khums or Zakat, or has hurt someone—especially employees or the weak—these matters must be resolved beforehand.
He emphasized that traditions state when a believer sets out for Ziyarat after fulfilling people’s rights, angels carry his footsteps on their wings, his sins are forgiven, and he returns spiritually purified like a newborn.
Agha Baqar Hussaini said that narrations declare Paradise obligatory for one who performs Ziyarat of Imam Hussain (AS); therefore, upon returning, a believer must protect his Paradise by safeguarding himself from sin, injustice, arrogance, and immoral conduct.
He questioned whether believers protect their acts of worship, noting that many pray, give charity, attend congregations from far-off areas, and even perform night prayers—but protection of worship through humility and sincerity is vital.
Referring to a narration reported in Shia sources, he quoted divine revelation to Prophet Dawood (AS): “Give My servants glad tidings of My mercy and do not let them despair of My forgiveness.” (Referenced in Al-Kafi and Bihar-ul-Anwar).
He stressed that Islam balances fear and hope, and a true believer neither despairs nor becomes arrogant.
He warned that pride in worship nullifies deeds, while showing off (Riya) is a hidden form of shirk that renders all effort worthless.
He concluded by stating that acceptance of deeds depends not on quantity, but on sincerity and humility before Allah.