What is the opinion of religious scholars regarding someone who fears showing off (riya') and major shirk more intensely than fearing fire from water, and what should a person afflicted with self-admiration do?

A Muslim should fear polytheism (shirk) and hypocrisy (riya'), and increase their understanding of creed (aqidah) and sincerity in worshiping Allah. They should also seek forgiveness from shirk by saying: "O Allah, we seek refuge in You from associating anything with You knowingly, and we seek Your forgiveness for what we do unknowingly." The Prophet, peace be upon him, warned against hidden shirk, such as showing off in prayer, or minor shirk, which is showing off. Allah Almighty will say on the Day of Resurrection to those who showed off: "Go to those whom you showed off to with your deeds in the world, and see if you find any reward with them." Ibn al-Qayyim explained that shirk in worship is when a servant believes in monotheism but is not sincere in their dealings and servitude; rather, they act for their own benefit or to seek worldly gains and status.