Understanding Taqwa
In our faith, there’s a beautiful concept called Taqwa. It’s not just a word, it’s a feeling, a way of being. It means carrying Allah (swt) with you in your heart, always aware of His presence. It’s a deep respect, a love that translates into action. Taqwa isn’t just fearing punishment, it’s the great respect for Allah (swt) that makes you want to live a life that pleases Him.
Imagine Taqwa as a compass. No matter where you are, in the bright light of day or the quiet darkness of night, it guides you. It reminds you to be honest, even when it’s difficult. To stay humble, even in success. To be generous with your time and resources. Patience and forgiveness become natural responses when your heart is filled with Taqwa. It’s the key to a life of purpose, one that brings you closer to Allah (swt) and prepares you for the next.
This aim for Taqwa is a lifelong journey. But the rewards are immense, in this life and the hereafter. It’s a beautiful gift, this awareness of Allah (swt), and one we should all cherish and cultivate.
Muttaqeen – The Lucky Ones
Those who stick with Taqwa are known as the “Muttaqeen.” Their lives are filled with the constant presence of Allah (swt). They fulfill their duties to Him (swt) and their fellow humans, always aiming to be better versions of themselves. As I said, Taqwa goes beyond mere fear of Allah (swt). It’s a beautiful fabric woven from love, respect, and awareness. This, in turn, blossoms into a life rich in righteousness, morality, and ethical conduct. It’s a compass guiding us towards a life pleasing to Allah (swt).
Taqwa in the Quran
Taqwa is mentioned more than 250 times in the Quran as a noun and verb. Allah Almighty says in the Quran,
This is the Book! There is no doubt about it —a guide for those mindful of Allah. [Surah Baqarah verse 2]
O believers! Patiently endure, persevere, stand on guard, and be mindful of Allah, So you may be successful. [Surah Al-Imran: 200]
O believers! If you are mindful of Allah, He will grant you a decisive authority, absolve you of your sins, and forgive you. And Allah is the Lord of infinite bounty. [Surah Al-Anfal: 29]
These verses demonstrate how Taqwa can lead to Allah’s (swt) satisfaction and protection and help us succeed in this world and the hereafter. These verses show how Taqwa can lead to Allah’s (swt) satisfaction and protection and help us succeed in this world and the hereafter.
Taqwa in Hadith
Taqwa is an essential quality of believers, bringing benefits in this life and the hereafter. Here are some hadiths on Taqwa and how to attain it:
Hazrat Anas bin Malik (RA) narrated that:
The Messenger of Allah said regarding this Ayah: “He is the One deserving of the Taqwa, and He is the One Who forgives. – he said: ‘Allah, Blessed is He and Most High, said: “I am the most worthy to have Taqwa of, so whoever has Taqwa of Me, not having any god besides Me, then I am most worthy that I forgive him.”
[Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3328]
Hazrat Abu Dharr (RA) said:
“The Messenger of Allah said to me: ‘Have Taqwa of Allah wherever you are, and follow an evil deed with a good one to wipe it out, and treat the people with good behavior.”
[Jami at-Tirmidhi 1987]
Taqwa, a profound awareness of Allah (swt), is exemplified by Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) life in every aspect. He was a just leader who ensured fairness and welfare for everyone, epitomizing Taqwa. Prophet (SAW) was kind to his family and persevered through adversity, demonstrating love, patience, and trust in Allah (swt). He was devoted to worship and highlighted the sincere connection with Allah (swt) for which we should all strive. He is an enduring model for us to embody Taqwa in our lives.
Importance of Taqwa
Taqwa, an essential virtue in Islam, guides believers to do right and avoid wrong.
- Allah (swt) will make a way out for the muttaqin from every difficulty and provide for them from sources they do not expect. (Quran 65:2-3)
- This is the commandment of Allah, which He has revealed to you. And whoever is mindful of Allah, He will absolve them of their sins and reward them immensely. (Quran 65:5)
- Allah (swt) will make the path easy for the muttaqin who give charity and believe in the good. (Quran 92:5-7)
Ways for Achieving Taqwa
To develop Taqwa, you should remember Allah (swt), learn more about Him, repent, fast, recognize death, and work to increase good deeds while decreasing sins. Some practical steps are:
- Recite the Quran daily, focusing on understanding and reflecting upon its meaning.
For more about reciting the Quran, see our blog post, Benefits of Reciting Quran: A Spiritual Journey.
- Gaining more knowledge about the Names and Attributes of Allah (swt) helps a Muslim remember how dependent we are on His Mercy and Forgiveness.
- Perform the five daily obligatory prayers on time and with concentration.
You can visit our blog post for a comprehensive guide on Five Daily Prayers.
- Observe the voluntary prayers such as Tahajjud and Witr.
For more information, visit our blog post, Nawafil Voluntary Prayers For Muslims.
- Give charity regularly and generously.
A comprehensive guide about the charity, you can visit our blog post, Islamic charity.
- Fast on Mondays and Thursdays or the white days (13th, 14th, and 15th of each lunar month).
- Observing fasts during the month of Ramadan enhances your Taqwa.
For more information about the month of Ramadan, you can visit this blog post: What is Ramadan?
- Doing Istighfar and Seeking forgiveness from Allah (swt) every morning and evening.
- Avoid doubtful matters and sins that can weaken your faith and Taqwa.
- It’s important to surround yourself with people who remind you of Allah (swt) and encourage you to do good.
Taqwa is not a one-time destination; it is a continuous process that requires sincere efforts, discipline, and commitment to living according to Islamic principles.
For more information about achieving taqwa steps and tips, visit this blog: https://aboutislam.net/counseling/ask-about-islam/meaning-taqwa.
Iman and Taqwa
Iman and Taqwa are two crucial concepts in Islam that guide our beliefs and actions. Taqwa refers to the purity achieved by obeying Allah’s commands and avoiding what He has forbidden. Iman refers to our faith or belief in Allah Almighty, His Messengers, His Books, His Angels, and the Day of Judgment. As Muslims, we must strive towards increasing our Iman and Taqwa by learning more about our religion, performing good deeds, and avoiding sins. By doing so, we can attain Allah’s pleasure and mercy in this life and the hereafter.
For more information about the Islamic faith, visit our blog post, Islamic Concept of Faith.
Taqwa and Tawakkul
Taqwa and Tawakkul are two essential concepts in Islam that are closely related. It refers to being conscious and aware of Allah (swt) and obeying His (swt) commands. Tawakkul is about trusting Allah (swt) and relying solely on Him (swt) for all our affairs. These concepts indicate faith and purity, bringing us closer to Allah’s (swt) love and mercy.
For a comprehensive guide about Tawakkul and its 9 practical steps, visit our blog post, Tawakkul in Allah, and practice Tawakkul.
As Muslims, striving towards attaining Taqwa and Tawakkul in our lives is essential, as they are sources of peace, happiness, and success. They also protect us from anxiety, fear, and despair. By having Taqwa and Tawakkul, we can face the challenges and difficulties of this world with courage and confidence.
Benefits of Taqwa
According to the Quran, Taqwa is the source of blessings and rewards from Allah (swt). Here are some benefits of Taqwa for believers:
Guidance
Allah (swt) says in the Quran, “This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.”(Quran, 2:2) Those who have Taqwa will find the Quran a light and a guide for their lives, and they will follow its teachings and commands.
Tranquility
Allah (swt) says in the Quran: “It is He who sent down tranquility into the hearts of the believers that they would increase in faith along with their faith.”(Quran, 48:4) Those who have Taqwa will experience peace and calmness in their hearts, as they trust in Allah (swt) and rely on Him (swt).
Allah Almighty’s love
“Indeed, Allah loves the righteous [who fear Him].”(Quran, 3:76) Taqwa will earn the love and pleasure of Allah (swt) for those who obey Him (swt) and avoid His (swt) displeasure.
Salvation from the Fire
“Then We will save those who feared Allah and leave the wrongdoers within it on their knees”(Quran, 19:72) Taqwa will save you from the punishment of Hellfire as you repent from your sins and seek forgiveness from Allah (swt).
For more information on Hellfire, visit this blog, Concept of Jahannam in Islam.
Unexpected Sustenance
“And if only the people of the cities had believed and feared Allah, We would have opened upon them blessings from the heaven and the earth; but they denied [the messengers], so We seized them for what they were earning.” (Quran, 7:96) Those who have Taqwa will receive abundant sustenance from Allah (swt) and will not experience poverty, as Allah (swt) will provide for them.
Read our other blog on the Jannah – The Reward for True Muslims.
Fear of Allah (swt)
Taqwa, it is vital to understand the concept of fearing Allah (swt). Fearing Allah (swt) doesn’t mean being scared or terrified of Him (swt). Instead, it means knowing His greatness, rights, and justice. Fearing Allah (swt) entails being conscious of His presence, watchfulness, and accountability.
Conclusion
The Taqwa journey isn’t a race, it’s a lifelong adventure. The more you learn about Allah (swt), the more your love and awareness of Him (swt) grows. It brings a deep peace, a feeling of being on the right path. Think of it as filling your life with sunshine – that’s the kind of happiness Taqwa brings.
Sure, there’s a healthy fear of disappointing the One who created us, but Taqwa is so much more beautiful than that. It’s the warmth of knowing Allah (swt) is always with you, the comfort of trusting in His plan. It makes you want to be honest, even when it’s tough, and kind even when you’re stressed. It’s like a superpower for good deeds!
We all want to be among the Muttaqeen, the people who walk hand-in-hand with Taqwa. May Allah (swt) bless us with the understanding and strength to grow in our love and awareness of Him (swt). Ameen.
