Self-denial Dictionary Definitions

The term abnegation comes from the Latin abnegatĭo. According to the definition presented in the dictionary of the Digopaul, it is about the sacrifice that someone makes of their will, their affections or their interests. Such a sacrifice is generally made for religious or altruistic reasons.

For Christianity, self-denial is the negation of the individual, in the sense of renouncing himself and personal interests. A good Christian cannot always do what he wants, but must obey the word of God and live according to his commands. This self-denial is an essential part in the formation of the Christian: that which is renounced, it is offered to God.

Self-denial involves discipline and involves control of desires, feelings, passions and thoughts. He is also opposed to hyperactivity and frenzy, since the person who does too much does not think; therefore, these things are often done poorly.

It is important to make it clear that self-denial is also vital within the military sphere. Thus, it is established that this virtue is essential that it be in the possession of the different soldiers and the rest of the members of the body, of the militia, since it is necessary that they put aside their interests, their tastes, their ideas about life or even his life in order to defend and protect his homeland.

In this way, the self-denial of many professionals who are willing to do anything in order to safeguard the security, freedom and life of citizens is currently praised. This would be the case of all those people who work in the State Security Corps and Forces such as the case of the military, police of various kinds or firefighters, among others.

Self-denial involves facing selfishness. It focuses on giving, rather than having. The person who renounces something to assist his neighbor does so freely and without obligation; therefore, in that denial there is a personal choice that generates joy and satisfaction.

Equally relevant is to underline the fact that the term self-sacrificing mother has been used throughout history. An expression with which he came to establish himself, imposed by moral and social as well as religious norms, that any parent had to be characterized by being willing to give everything for their children, who is capable of never giving up and being strong permanent with such to get ahead with her family, who have the necessary courage to face all the obstacles that stand in their way as long as their offspring do not suffer and even if they are the ones who suffer.

All these characteristics place, for Christians, Jesus Christ as a symbol and model of self-denial. Jesus decided to renounce his divine condition and became a man to save humanity. So he asks his disciples to follow him, renounce their own will, and do the will of God on earth.

Abnegation