سهراب مروتی

Narcissism is an individual or group phenomenon in which individuals and groups become unhealthily enamored with them, perceiving themselves as superior to others. This condition has also infiltrated the realm of religion and spirituality, being recognized as one of the ills of religiosity. The present study aims to describe and explain religious narcissism and its components. It employs a descriptive-analytical method with a focus on the psychological foundations of narcissism to elucidate this phenomenon. The results indicate that it manifests in both religious individuals and groups or movements, leading them to issue reprimands and excommunications against others. The results demonstrate that despite its multiple components, the basis of the beliefs of the individual and the narcissistic religious movement centers around three core components: "Self-righteousness, absolutism, and exclusivism," which also encompass other components. Under the shadow of these three components—discussed in the psychology of narcissism under terms such as a sense of righteousness, superiority, self-centeredness, and exclusivity—narcissistic individuals and groups believe that in comparison to others, they are special and superior, that goodness is what they perceive it to be, and that evil is what they deny. They maintain an egocentric focus on themselves and their needs, convinced that everything is meant for them.

The Qur’an, as a divine scripture, transcends a merely religious and spiritual text; it constitutes a unique compendium of knowledge and guidance for understanding and addressing diverse individual and social issues. With its comprehensive and boundless depth, this sacred text engages with all aspects of human life and elucidates the causes and conditions of various challenges. One of the significant issues discussed within this framework is the conflict of interest. The main question of this study is: What are the instances of conflict of interest from the Qur’anic perspective, and what solutions does the Qur’an propose for managing them? This paper aims to identify and explain the manifestations of conflict of interest based on Qur’anic teachings and to explore the corresponding management strategies. To achieve this goal, a descriptive-analytical method was employed, drawing upon four Qur’anic narratives: the Battle of Uḥud, the behavior of the Companions during the Prophet’s time, the story of Prophet Shuʿayb, and the account of Hābīl and Qābīl (Abel and Cain). The findings indicate that the Qur’an extensively addresses this issue and provides multiple approaches for confronting, managing, and avoiding conflicts of interest. The key managerial components include identifying the roots of conflict, preventing and controlling it through transparency, emphasizing ethical leadership, and managing group relations. Qur’anic strategies are based on such concepts as  al-taqwā (self-restraint), al-īmān (reinforced responsibility), al-infāq (almsgiving or reduction of inequality), and al-ṣabr (rational forbearance). Operationalizing these strategies through a three-level framework (individual, organizational, and social) can foster communities resilient against corruption. The results demonstrate that the Qur’an not only contributes to preventing conflicts of interest but also assists in cultivating a balanced and morally grounded society.