The Four Enemies Within: Anger, Pride, Deceit, and Greed

In the journey of life, the greatest battles we fight are not with others, but within ourselves. Hidden in plain sight, there are four powerful enemies that quietly steer our thoughts, decisions, and actions — Anger, Pride, Deceit, and Greed. These emotions, known as the Kashayas in Jain philosophy, are considered the root causes of human suffering and bondage. Let’s explore each one and understand how they influence our lives.

1. Anger – The Fire That Burns Within

Anger is like a sudden wildfire that consumes peace and clarity. It often arises when our expectations are not met, or when we feel threatened, disrespected, or helpless. While it may give a temporary sense of control or power, anger ultimately weakens us. It clouds our judgment, harms our relationships, and damages our health.

Reflection:

When anger arises, pause. Ask yourself — is this worth the peace I am about to lose?

"Anger is the flame that burns the one who holds it more than the one at whom it is thrown." ~ Adarsh Singh

2. Pride – The Mask of Ego

Pride isn’t about self-respect — it’s the false sense of superiority that comes from comparing ourselves to others. It makes us believe we are better, smarter, or more deserving than those around us. But pride builds walls around the heart, making humility and empathy impossible.

Reflection:

Real strength lies not in thinking you are above others, but in lifting others up with you.

"Pride blinds the heart to its own greatness by making it look down on others."
~ Adarsh Singh

3. Deceit – The Web We Weave

Deceit comes from fear and insecurity. It pushes us to hide our true selves and manipulate others to achieve what we want. Though it may appear clever, deceit ultimately traps us in a web of lies and disconnection.

Reflection:

Truth has a power that deception can never match. Be honest — with others and with yourself.

"Deceit may win the moment, but truth wins the soul."
~ Adarsh Singh

4. Greed – The Endless Hunger

Greed is the desire that never ends. Whether it’s money, power, possessions, or fame — greed makes us believe we never have enough. It pulls us into a race where fulfillment is always just out of reach. The more we feed it, the emptier we feel inside.

Reflection:

Contentment is not found in having more, but in needing less.

"Greed is the thirst that no river can quench; only contentment can fill the soul."
~ Adarsh Singh

The Path to Inner Freedom

These four passions — anger, pride, deceit, and greed — are not just emotional responses. They are patterns that imprison the soul and keep us stuck in cycles of pain and dissatisfaction. Recognizing them is the first step toward healing. The next is cultivating their opposites:

Forgiveness for anger
Humility for pride
Sincerity for deceit
Contentment for greed

When we begin to master these inner enemies, we open the door to peace, purpose, and spiritual liberation.

Final Thought

The world outside may never be perfect, but when the world inside is at peace, everything changes. The true warrior is one who conquers the self — not with force, but with awareness, compassion, and discipline.

"Mastering the world is strength; mastering the self is true victory." ~ Adarsh Singh

Sat Apr 26, 2025

Say Yes to i SOUL

Founder of iSOUL ~ Ideal School of Ultimate Life
Adarsh Singh empowers individuals to live purposefully by integrating timeless wisdom with practical tools. With 18+ years in finance and a deep connection to spirituality, his teachings blend Money, Mind, Matter(Body) and Meaning to help people create a truly fulfilling life.

The Four Enemies Within: Anger, Pride, Deceit, and Greed

1. Anger – The Fire That Burns Within

2. Pride – The Mask of Ego

3. Deceit – The Web We Weave

4. Greed – The Endless Hunger

The Path to Inner Freedom

Final Thought

Say Yes to iSOUL

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