In the journey of faith, we often find ourselves engrossed in personal acts of worship like Salah (prayer) and Dhikr (remembrance of Allah). These practices are essential, nurturing our spiritual connection with Allah and fortifying our inner peace. However, without belittling any good deeds and acts of ibadah at all or even a bit, Islam encourages us to extend our goodness beyond personal devotion. By shifting our focus to good deeds that benefit others, we not only seek to please Allah but also create a positive impact in this world. Let’s explore how this dual approach can ease our path on Judgment Day and enhance our lives here and now.
1. Pleasing Allah through Selfless Acts
Islam teaches that our deeds, both big and small, are recorded and will be presented on Judgment Day. While personal acts of worship are critical, selfless acts done to help others hold a special place in the eyes of Allah. Here are a few ways we can focus on pleasing Allah through deeds that benefit others:
Acts of Charity
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Charity does not decrease wealth.” (Sahih Muslim). Giving to those in need is a direct way to earn Allah’s pleasure. Whether it’s financial assistance, providing food, or even offering your time and skills, charity opens doors of blessings and mercy both, in this life and in the next.
Abdullah Ibn Umar reported that the Prophet ﷺ said:
“The most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people. The most beloved deeds to Allah, the Mighty and Exalted, are to bring happiness to a Muslim, relieve him of distress, pay off his debt, or remove his hunger. That I walk with a brother regarding a need is more beloved to me than that I seclude myself in this mosque (meaning the mosque of Madinah) for a month. Whoever controls his anger, Allah will conceal his faults. Whoever suppresses his rage, even though he could discharge it if he wished, Allah will fill his heart with hope on the Day of Judgment. Whoever walks with his brother regarding a need until it is fulfilled, Allah will make his footing firm on the Day when feet will slip. Indeed, bad character ruins deeds just as vinegar ruins honey.” Hadeeth is saheeh according to Al-Albani
Allah has specifically mentioned two types of needy in the Quran.
”And those in whose wealth there is a recognised right. For the beggar who asks, and for the unlucky who has lost his property and wealth, (and his means of living has been straitened).”
Quran 70:24-25
(Muhsin Khan and Taqi-ud-Din al-Hilali)
”And in their wealth there was a rightful share fulfilled for the beggar and the poor.”
Quran 50:19
”Charity is for the needy who are too engaged in the cause of Allah to move about in the land ˹for work. Those unfamiliar with their situation will think they are not in need of charity because they do not beg. You can recognize them by their appearance. They do not beg people persistently. Whatever you give in charity is certainly well known to Allah.”
Quran 2:273
By keeping these 3 ayas in mind, we should realize that in a modern western society, we don’t necessarily recognize needy people every day. Thus, while walking toward that cozy masjid nearby to multiply our ajr of each salah by 27, just imagine if we could learn to recognize signs and the need of those who happen to posses our potential ajr between the lines.
Although, 2:273 was sent down at the times of Ashab al-Suffah, due to the fact that the Quran is a timeless book, if we are willing to open our eyes and learn to recognize their signs, we have an opportunity to unlock the potential hidden and otherwise missed ajr around us.
Spreading Knowledge
Sharing beneficial knowledge is a continuous charity (Sadaqah Jariyah). Teaching others, guiding someone through a difficult problem, or even sharing a valuable lesson can leave a lasting impact. Allah values the act of spreading wisdom and aiding others in their journey towards understanding.
Acts of Kindness
Simple acts of kindness, like helping a neighbor, visiting the sick, or supporting someone in distress, resonate deeply with Allah’s teachings. The Prophet (PBUH) emphasized the importance of kindness, saying, “The best of people are those that bring most benefit to the rest of mankind.” (Daraqutni).
2. Creating a Positive Impact in This Life
Good deeds not only prepare us for the hereafter but also enhance our lives and the lives of those around us. Here’s how our actions can create a ripple effect of positivity:
Building Strong Communities
When we extend our hands to help others, we contribute to building strong, cohesive communities. Acts like volunteering at local shelters, participating in community clean-up projects, or organizing educational programs to foster unity and mutual support, can create a nurturing environment for us all.
Promoting Social Justice
Standing up for justice and supporting those who are oppressed or marginalized within your reach is a powerful way to embody Islamic values. By advocating for fair treatment and equality, we help build a just society, reflecting the teachings of Islam in our actions.
Environmental Stewardship
Islam emphasizes the importance of protecting the environment. Planting trees, reducing waste, and promoting sustainable practices are ways we can positively impact our world.
Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, “There is none amongst the Muslims who plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or an animal eats from it, but is regarded as a charitable gift for him.” Hadeeth is saheeh according to Bukhari.
As we walk to the masjid, seeking the multiplied reward of 27 times the ajr compared to praying at home, let us open our hearts and eyes to those in need around us. Every step taken towards the house of Allah is an opportunity to earn good deeds and get your bad ones wiped out for sure, yet focusing only on yourself has smaller impact than focusing on others.
In case you’re interested in gaining even more rewards, consider helping others along the way. Whether it’s offering a kind word or a smile, assisting an elderly neighbor, or lending a hand to someone in distress, these acts of kindness not only enhance our spiritual rewards but also create a ripple of positivity in our communities. By observing and responding to the needs of others, we maximize our impact and embody the true spirit of Islam.
Conclusion
Shifting our focus from personal acts of worship to deeds that benefit others allows us to fulfill our duty as Muslims in a holistic manner. By striving to please Allah through acts of kindness, charity, and justice, we not only prepare ourselves for a favorable standing on Judgment Day but also contribute to a better, more compassionate world. Let us embrace the teachings of Islam by extending our hands to help those around us, thereby creating a legacy of goodness that benefits both this life and the hereafter.
Through this balanced approach, we can achieve personal spiritual growth while making a tangible, positive impact on our communities and the world at large.
At Positivegrowth.fi, we are committed to nurturing the holistic development of all our readers. If you happen to identify as a Muslim, stay tuned for more content specifically tailored to your journey of faith and personal growth. We regularly publish articles that align with Islamic values, offering inspiration and guidance to help you lead a fulfilling life both spiritually and socially. Keep an eye out for our updates, and join us on this path of positive transformation.
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