MEANING OF TAQWA

What is Taqwa and how can it help you?

Taqwa is the fear of Allah. This means that a person will not sin if he fears Allah. Taqwa can be described as both fear and consciousness about Allah. Piety is basically righteousness. You can only attain it by following the instructions of Almighty Allah. Taqwa is the key for happiness and success in this lifetime and beyond. Taqwa allows Muslims to interact with one another in society. It also acts as a means for them to link their actions.

Importance of Taqwa in Islam

It is repeated in Quran that Allah is the only Creator of the world, and He is the Most Merciful to all His people. As the Holy Quran explains, obedience to the great Lord does not mean that you must perform religious acts. It also means being moral in all aspects of your life.

O believers! When you converse privately, let it not be for sin, aggression, or disobedience to the Messenger, but let it be for goodness and righteousness. And fear Allah, to Whom you will ˹all˺ be gathered.’’ (Quran, 58:9)

It is clear that Taqwa can be more than piety. It refers to the combination of beliefs, self-awareness, attitudes, and actions. It is a reminder not to lose sight of uprightness, dignity, and the distinction between right and wrong. It's about Lord Consciousness. Knowing and obeying all His orders is key.

In Quran, Allah says: O you who believe (who wish to reach Allah before death)! Be the owners of piety towards Allah and be with the Sâdikîn (loyal ones). (Quran, 9:119)

Taqwa accordig to Sunnah and Holy Quran define protection from Hellfire as following Allah Almighty's orders, doing what He (SWT), has ordered and avoiding what He(SWT) has forbidden.

Many Ayahs in the Quran point to this: And to Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. And We have instructed those who were given the Scripture before you and yourselves to fear Allah . But if you disbelieve - then to Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. And ever is Allah Free of need and Praiseworthy. (Quran, 4:131)

HOW TO INCREASE IN TAQWA

Piety refers to purity of heart and spiritual profundity. To refrain from the unlawful, piety is being determined to not sin and avoid doubtful matters. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. You should be alert for any deviation from Allah.

2. Be aware of the temptations to indulge in carnal pleasures that can lead to the forbidden realm.

3. Allah should be credited with all spiritual and material achievements.

4. Never regard yourself as greater or better than anyone else.

5. Seek Allah's delight and satisfaction in all matters.

6. You can revive the fountains of your Iman when you study and reflect on Allah's creation.

7. It is important to remember death, and to live in the awareness that it could happen at any moment.

Lastly, Taqwa is the heavenly life-giving water, and a muttaqi is one who has discovered it. Only a few people have ever experienced this blessing.