Exaltation by God is a profound concept found across many religious traditions, especially within Christianity, Islam, and other faiths. The idea of being exalted implies being elevated to a higher spiritual status, marked by divine favor, honor, or eternal life. But what does it truly mean to be exalted by God, and can ordinary people achieve this elevated state?
The Concept of Exaltation in Religious Traditions
In Christianity: The Bible speaks about God exalting people, especially the humble. In the book of James (4:10), it states, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.” This suggests that humility and submission to God’s will are the keys to being exalted. In the Christian context, exaltation can mean being raised in God’s kingdom, receiving His grace, and being saved to eternal life. Jesus, through His teachings and actions, emphasizes that those who serve others and maintain humility are those who will be exalted (Matthew 23:12).
In Islam: The concept of exaltation by Allah is also prominent. The Quran describes how Allah elevates certain individuals through His mercy and grace. In Surah Al-Alaq (96:3), Allah proclaims, “Read! And your Lord is the Most Generous, Who taught by the pen, taught man that which he knew not.” This reference highlights how learning and knowledge of divine truths can elevate an individual in the sight of Allah. Additionally, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) exemplifies how following the path of righteousness and submission to Allah’s will leads to spiritual exaltation.
In Hinduism: Hindu philosophy speaks of spiritual elevation through moksha, the liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). Achieving moksha is akin to being exalted in the divine sense. By living a righteous life, seeking knowledge, and dedicating oneself to God, an individual may transcend earthly existence and unite with the Divine. The Bhagavad Gita, particularly in chapters 9 and 18, provides insight into how devotion to God leads to exaltation and ultimate liberation.
How Can One Achieve Exaltation by God?
- Humility and Faith: Many religious traditions emphasize that to be exalted by God, one must exhibit humility. Humility before God shows complete reliance on His grace. A humble heart is open to divine guidance, and this allows for spiritual elevation.
- Righteous Living: Living a life in accordance with God’s will and commandments is fundamental. Whether through prayer, good deeds, or ethical living, righteousness is seen as a key factor in being exalted by God. In Christianity, living by the commandments and following Christ’s example is central to achieving spiritual exaltation.
- Devotion and Service: Devotion to God through prayer, worship, and selfless service can elevate the soul. In Islam, for example, the practice of regular prayer (salat) and charity (zakat) leads to greater proximity to Allah, which in turn brings divine elevation.
- Repentance and Forgiveness: In many religions, repentance for one’s wrongdoings is a powerful way to seek God’s favor and be exalted. In Christianity, repentance is necessary for receiving forgiveness and experiencing spiritual growth. In Islam, the act of turning back to Allah through sincere repentance is highly regarded.
- Spiritual Knowledge: Gaining knowledge of divine principles, whether through religious texts or through meditation and contemplation, is an important step. Knowledge leads to understanding and enlightenment, which is considered a form of spiritual exaltation.
Conclusion
Can we be exalted by God? The answer is yes, though it comes with a deep spiritual responsibility. Exaltation is not an automatic or earthly promotion but a divine elevation that comes through humility, devotion, righteous living, and a close relationship with God. It is about submitting to God’s will and allowing His mercy and grace to raise us above the challenges of the earthly realm.
If you are seeking to be exalted by God, remember that the path is one of selflessness, devotion, and spiritual awareness. Each religious tradition offers unique insights into how we can elevate ourselves in God’s sight, but they all point to the same fundamental truth: it is through humility, faith, and righteous living that we can truly experience divine exaltation.
References:
- The Bible, James 4:10, Matthew 23:12
- The Quran, Surah Al-Alaq (96:3)
- The Bhagavad Gita, Chapters 9 and 18
- Encyclopedia Britannica, “Exaltation in Religion”
- Hadith Collections, Sahih Muslim and Sahih Bukhari on humility and divine elevation