Have you ever pondered over the purpose of your existence? Questions about why you're here, where you're heading, and what your life means may have crossed your mind. In the Quran, Allah (subḥānahū wa taʿālā) states, "And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me" (51:56). Thus, if there's one word that encapsulates the essence of our existence, it's 'ʿibādah'.
The term 'ʿibādah', often translated as 'worship', encompasses every action and utterance that pleases Allah (subḥānahū wa taʿālā) and garners His satisfaction.
'ʿIbādah' includes:
1. **Actions of the Limbs:** These are the outward physical acts of worship.
2. **Actions of the Heart:** These are the inner dimensions of worship, including beliefs (īmān), knowledge of Allah (maʿrifah), sincerity (ikhlāṣ), piety (taqwā), trust in Allah (tawakkul), hope (rajā’), fear (khawf), gratitude (shukr), patience (ṣabr), love (ḥubb), yearning (shawq), and certainty (yaqīn).
**The Inner Essence**
Every act of worship in Islam comprises both its outward expression ('action of the limb') and its inner essence ('action of the heart'). This inner essence is the core of the worship.
For instance:
- The outer form of prayer (ṣalāh) involves physical postures, while its essence lies in the deep humility and presence of heart (khushūʿ).
- While fasting outwardly refrains from food, its essence is the cultivation of mindfulness (taqwā).
- The pilgrimage (ḥajj) involves physical rituals, but its essence is the reverence for Allah's symbols.
**The Heart's Crucial Role**
Often, we emphasize the physical aspects of worship and neglect the spiritual dimensions. The heart's importance is paramount in connecting with Allah.
Imām al-Ghazālī (raḥimahullāh) highlighted the centrality of the heart: "The pinnacle of human honor and excellence lies in knowing Allah. The heart, uniquely, knows Allah, works for Him, strives towards Him, and draws near to Him. Other organs merely serve the heart."
The Messenger ﷺ indicated the heart's significance by pointing to it and saying, "Taqwā is here, taqwā is here, taqwā is here." (Muslim)
**Superiority Through the Heart**
Allah affirms that one's standing in His sight is based on their heart's sincerity and consciousness. "The most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you." (49:13)
Taqwā, guarding against Allah's displeasure, isn't just about external actions. Allah says, "Whoever honors the symbols of Allah, it is from the taqwā of the hearts." (22:32)
Ibn Taymiyyah (raḥimahullāh) stated, "Actions vary based on the sincerity and faith of the heart. The gap between two prayers may be as vast as the heavens and earth."
**The Heart's Intention**
Our hearts determine our superiority. An intention can elevate small deeds and diminish great ones. The Prophet ﷺ said, "Indeed, Allah loves that when any one of you does a job, he perfects it." (Ṭabarānī)
Hence, actions of the heart enhance the value of deeds. ʿAbdullāh b. al-Mubārak (raḥimahullāh) noted, "An intention elevates a small act, and a wrong intention diminishes a great one."
**Balancing the Heart and Actions**
Internalizing the actions of the heart doesn't diminish the importance of external acts. They complement each other. Shayṭān's ploy is to undermine external obedience by prioritizing internal intentions. Pure hearts align with outward commandments.
In conclusion, to truly worship Allah, surrendering our hearts is key. Balancing outer actions with inner sincerity bridges our connection with the Divine. The heart's intention elevates our deeds, making us beloved to Allah. The path to Allah is paved through the heart's journey, embracing both the inner and outer aspects of worship.
