Jealousy is one of the oldest emotions known to humanity. It has sparked wars, broken friendships, destroyed families, and fueled countless acts of betrayal. Across cultures and generations, jealousy has often been viewed as more than just an emotion—it is seen as a dangerous force capable of corrupting the human heart.
A popular saying states:
"Jealousy is the last class to attend before becoming a witch."
Of course, this statement is not meant to be taken literally in every case. Rather, it highlights a disturbing truth about human nature: unchecked jealousy can push people to do things they never imagined possible.
What Is Jealousy?
Jealousy is the feeling of resentment, insecurity, or bitterness toward someone because of what they have, who they are, or what they have achieved.
It can arise when:
- Someone gets promoted while you remain stagnant.
- A friend becomes successful before you.
- A neighbor buys something you cannot afford.
- A sibling receives more attention or praise.
In small doses, jealousy can motivate self-improvement. But when it grows unchecked, it can become toxic.
Why Jealousy Is So Dangerous
Jealousy rarely wants what is best for others. Instead, it secretly hopes that others lose what they have.
A jealous person may begin to:
- Spread rumors.
- Celebrate another person's failure.
- Sabotage opportunities.
- Hold grudges.
- Become obsessed with comparisons.
Over time, the focus shifts from improving oneself to pulling others down.
The "Witchcraft" Connection
In many African cultures, witchcraft is often associated with hidden hostility, envy, and a desire to harm another person's progress.
Whether one believes in literal witchcraft or not, the symbolism remains powerful.
The saying suggests that before someone becomes willing to destroy another person's happiness, they usually pass through the school of jealousy first.
The process often looks like this:
Admiration → Comparison → Envy → Resentment → Hatred → Harmful Actions
Not everyone who experiences jealousy follows this path, but many destructive behaviors begin with feelings of envy that were never addressed.
The Psychology Behind It
Modern psychology recognizes jealousy as a complex emotional response involving fear, insecurity, and low self-worth.
Research suggests that people who constantly compare themselves to others are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and resentment.
The problem is not that others are succeeding.
The problem is believing that someone else's success somehow reduces your own value.
How To Defeat Jealousy
The antidote to jealousy is gratitude and self-development.
Instead of asking:
"Why them?"
Ask:
"What can I learn from them?"
Practical steps include:
- Focus on your personal growth.
- Limit unhealthy comparisons.
- Celebrate others' achievements.
- Practice gratitude daily.
- Remember that everyone has a different journey.
ATKAU Says
Jealousy itself may not make someone a witch, but history, culture, and human experience all suggest that envy is often the seed from which many destructive actions grow.
The moment another person's success becomes your pain, you have entered dangerous territory.
The challenge is not to eliminate jealousy completely—because it is a human emotion—but to recognize it before it transforms into bitterness, hatred, or actions that harm others.
After all, the greatest victory is not bringing others down.
It is rising high enough that comparison no longer controls your heart.