Pride

When we say someone has a "head start" in life, we usually mean they were born into conditions that support their success in this world. The same applies to spiritual success, where some are given advantages that help them progress on the holy path. Why is this so?

A Hindu or Buddhist might explain these advantages as the result of past lives, while in Abrahamic traditions, they are seen as pure gifts from God. The latter view fosters humility, reminding us that we deserve little credit for either worldly achievements or spiritual devotion.

Because of these natural differences, God has different expectations for each soul. People who are given a spiritual head start may be expected to travel further on the path than others. There is not simply one finishing line which everybody must cross to be saved. Everybody has a different finishing line because everybody has a different starting point, a different vehicle and unique obstacles to face along the journey. We should not assume that we are ahead of others, even if it may seem like we are. Only God knows where they came from and how much work they have done to get to where they are. Never look at others with the eye of contempt. Having a good opinion of others (husn ad dhan) is the way of the prophets and the great ones. The Quran encourages competition in virtue but never allows us to have a condescending attitude towards the other,  

"Race with one another for forgiveness from your Lord, and for a paradise as wide the heavens and the earth, prepared for the reverant" - Quran 3:133

Notes

* Most of us do not make much progress in our spiritual journey. However, what may truly matter is where we have fixed our eyes and placed our intentions.

* Pride (spiritual pride) is a graver offence than disobedience. Adam was forgiven for his disobedience but Iblis was not because he showed pride. He said, "I am better than he."