IN the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
Taqwa (piety) guides Muslims on the path to righteousness. It serves as a shield against wrongdoing and a means to attain closeness to Allah (SWT). There is the need for Muslims to recognise the importance of taqwa through the Noble Qur’an and the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and reflect on examples from the lives of the Prophet and his Companions so that taqwa may grow as they strive towards spiritual growth and moral excellence.
Taqwa is what is inside of the believer. The Prophet (SAW), as reported in Sahih Muslim, said, “Taqwa is here,” pointing to his chest. Taqwa is in the heart. It is like a guiding light that helps the Muslim to make the right choices and stay away from evil. Taqwa is the spiritual compass guiding the righteous towards Allah’s (SWT) pleasure in this life and the next.
In the Glorious Qur’an, Allah (SWT) speaks a lot about the importance of taqwa. Muslims are repeatedly reminded of how essential it is to have taqwa if we must be true Muslims and earn His pleasure. Allah (SWT) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, Q2:197: “And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa. So, fear Me, O you of understanding.” Allah is telling us that the best thing we can have with us on our journey through life is taqwa. It is like the best kind of food for our souls. And Allah (SWT) is reminding us to be mindful of Him because that is really important.
It is through taqwa that Muslims establish a deep connection with Allah (SWT) and lead a life of piety and righteousness. The importance of taqwa cannot just be overemphasised. The concept of taqwa encompasses awareness and fear of Allah. It is a state of mind and heart that drives individuals to constantly strive for righteousness and avoid transgression.
Taqwa permeates every aspect of a Muslim’s life, guiding his thoughts, intentions and actions. It is a constant reminder to remain on the path of righteousness, to differentiate between right and wrong and to follow Allah’s (SWT) commands. Allah (SWT) says, “This is the Book (the Glorious Qur’an). Whereof there is no doubt, a guidance to those who are Al-Muttaqin (people of Taqwa)” Surah Al-Baqarah 2:2.
One of the primary benefits of taqwa is the guidance it provides. Those who possess taqwa seek guidance from the Qur’an which serves as a source of wisdom and enlightenment. Allah (SWT) promises guidance to those who are conscious of Him and strive to live in accordance with His commands. Through the practice of taqwa, individuals receive divine guidance, enabling them to navigate through the challenges of life and make decisions that align with Allah’s (SWT) will.
Allah (SWT) assures believers that those who fear Him will be granted ease in their affairs. Taqwa brings about a sense of tranquility and contentment, allowing individuals to face life’s trials with resilience and fortitude. Those who possess taqwa are bestowed with the strength and blessing necessary to overcome challenges. They find solace in their trust in Allah (SWT) and His guidance, making their journey smoother and more manageable.
Allah (SWT) loves those who possess taqwa and engage in righteous deeds. The Noble Qur’an states, “Truly Allah loves the Muttaqin”, Surah Al-Imran, 3:76. Taqwa is the source of gaining Allah’s (SWT) love and blessings. It is through the practice of taqwa that individuals demonstrate their devotion and obedience to Allah (SWT), earning His favour and acceptance. By striving to live a life of righteousness and piety, believers cultivate a deep connection with their Creator, experiencing His love and mercy.
Taqwa acts as a shield against the anger and displeasure of Allah (SWT). It serves as a barrier between believers and adversities of life, safeguarding them from haram. Allah (SWT) promises to provide a way out for those who fear Him and remain steadfast in their faith. Difficulties may still arise, but individuals with taqwa are equipped with the strength and resilience to face them, knowing that Allah (SWT) is their Protector.
True peace can only be attained through a deep connection with Almighty Allah (SWT). Those with taqwa find solace and peace of mind in submission to Allah’s (SWT) will. They experience a sense of tranquility and contentment in knowing that they are fulfilling their purpose and living in accordance with their Creator’s guidance. The Glorious Qur’an states, “Those who believed (in the Oneness of Allah – Islamic Monotheism), and whose hearts find rest in the remembrance of Allah, verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” Surah Ar-Ra’d, Qur’an 13:28.
One of the benefits of taqwa is salvation from the Hellfire. Allah (SWT) promises to save those who possess taqwa from the torment of the hereafter. By living a life of righteousness, individuals protect themselves from sins and earn the reward of Paradise. Taqwa serves as a divine shield, guarding believers from the eternal punishment of the Hellfire.
Taqwa grants Muslims the ability to discern between the truth of life (the true religion) and falsehood. By prioritising obedience to Allah (SWT) and love for Him above all else, those with taqwa are gifted with insight and discernment. They can differentiate between right and wrong, making decisions that align with their faith and values. The Noble Qur’an says, “O you believe! If you obey and fear Allah, He will grant you Furqan[(a criterion to judge between right and wrong], (Makhraj, i.e. a way for you to get out from every difficulty)], and will expiate for you your sins, and forgive you; and Allah is the Owner of the Great Bounty.” Surah Al-Anfal, Qur’an 8:29.
Allah (SWT) promises success for those Muslims who possess taqwa. By striving to lead a life of righteousness, the believer paves the way for success in this world and hereafter. Taqwa leads to the fulfillment of both worldly and spiritual goals, as pious Muslims seek to please Allah (SWT) in all aspects of their lives. Allah (SWT) instructs. “O you believe! Endure and be more patient…… and fear Allah (have Taqwa of Allah, so that you may be successful.).” Surah Al-Imran Qur’an 3:200.
Taqwa is of immense importance in Islam, serving as a pathway to success and happiness. By cultivating taqwa in their hearts, true Muslims can lead a life that is pleasing to Allah (SWT) and find true fulfillment and contentment, even with the vicissitudes of this world.
