Importance of Sincerity (Ikhlas) in Islam

Islam is the religion of peace & blessings, it advised us to promote sincerity. Sincerity (Ikhlas) is the state of being wholehearted to do, say, and commit deeds for the sake of Allah Almighty. Ikhlas is also the fundamental aspect of our Islamic teachings. With any good action that we do sincerity is important. In religion Islam, any form of worship that we do, need sincerity. Sincerity cannot be shown when we worship Allah SWT, but through our intentions we can create a sense of sincerity.

Allah Almighty says in the Holy Quran: “I have only created Jinns and men, that they may worship Me.” (Quran, 51:56)

Worshiping Allah Almighty as the act of devoutness can’t be done carelessly. The acceptable deeds gained when we sincerely worship Allah SWT.  Because when we worship in order to please others, it has no spiritual benefit. So, it is important to concern more on the intention. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) has mentioned several times the importance of intention while committing religious devoutness. However, if the intention doesn’t have any sincerity (Ikhlas) for Allah, then it will be wasted.  Intention plays a special role in the acceptance of our deeds besides Taqwa and correctness.

In the hadith it is stated: “Verily deeds are reckoned according to the intention, and every person shall get that which he has intended” (Bukhari)

There are three types of sincerity faith and belief, acts of obedience, morals and manners. Being sincere involves attaining faith the way that Allah Almighty wants us to, which entails sincerity in faith, intention and fear of the punishment of Allah. Sincerity (Ikhlas) is not something that you show off, sincerity is when a good deed done for the sake of Allah, and you attain this reward with an action that is supported by sincere intentions. Sincere people are the one who loves Allah most and puts most trust in Him.

It is stated in the Holy Quran: “And he who has come with the sincere (faith) and has sincere faith in it, those are they who are pious.” (Quran, 39:33)

Sincerity uplift our soul. Ikhlas prevents us from being disappointed. Allah Almighty love all His creatures and promised not to disappoint them. None of people in this world have such a great ability to pay back our devoutness except Allah SWT. One of the most important things we must know about the importance of sincerity in Islam is the chance of us meeting Allah Almighty in the heaven.

Allah SWT says in the Quran: “Whoever expects to meet his Lord, let him work righteousness, and, in the worship of his Lord, admit no one as partner.” (Quran, 18:110)

Muslim who is trying to improve his/her sincerity in faith, actions and belief may find it difficult, however, by seeking knowledge, constantly doing good deeds, worshiping Allah SWT & calling people to the religion of Islam can be beneficial. Narrated by Aisha (RA): Allah’s Messenger Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, “Do good deeds properly, sincerely and moderately and know that your deeds will not make you enter Paradise, and that the most beloved deed to Allah is the most regular and constant even if it were little.” (Bukhari)

We should follow the teachings of Islam and implement in our life. May peace and blessing of Allah be upon us always. Ameen!

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