Imam Khomeini, the late founder of the Islamic Republic, through his theological and mystical works presented a solution to man’s egoism and self-centeredness.
Scholars are not seen to differ on this point that man is self-centered creature possessing strong egoism.
According to Imam Khomeini, the key solution to this concern is the fitrah, which means natural disposition and origination.
This solution has been supported by Holy Quran which says in its one of the verses that “the nature (framed) of Allah, in which He hath created man.”
Imam as-Sadiq (PBUH), one of infallible successors of the holy prophet of Islam also stated that it meant that God created all the people with a monotheistic instinct.
Man’s monotheistic and perfection-seeking disposition constitutes the basis for growth and development.
Imam Khomeini through his works emphasizes that this proximity to the Divine Presence is commensurate to the exit from the door of selfishness and self-worship.
He notes that "the Gnostic journey toward God and the spiritual migration does not take place without leaving the dark house of the self and the disappearance of its traces."
This also compels man to overcome his self and to tread the path of perfection, and go beyond the stages of Divine Proximity.
Imam Khomeini, the leader of contemporary Muslim world, further explains that man can reach to the status of becoming deserved for becoming the vicegerent of God and all-encompassing embodiment of His Attributes.
According to Imam Khomeini the human soul is by nature and instinct inclined to believe not only in the principle of monotheism, but to follow all truthful doctrines also.
The most important principle of man’s fitrah is his being monotheist; second, belief in the hereafter; and third, acceptance of the principle of prophethood.
Another aspect of fitrah is the natural inclination to seek perfection [that] is so universal. A love of perfection will be found to be part of man's nature and his heart will be found to be pulled toward it.
It is possible that individuals may have diverse opinions on the meaning and connotation of perfection.
It is the same inclination to perfection and excellence that drives forward the caravan of human civilization and learning.
It is the same essence of fitrah that leads to the founding of communities and civil society.
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