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   Taqwa From Islamic Scholars’ Perspective:                              Examples of Taqwa

Throughout Islamic history, scholars have described Taqwa as the foundation of faith and the key to attaining Allah’s pleasure. Their explanations help us understand how Taqwa is not merely a feeling but a way of life that influences every action and decision.

Definitions of Taqwa by Islamic Scholars

Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA)

It is reported that Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA) once asked Ubayy ibn Ka'b (RA) about Taqwa. Ubayy replied by asking whether he had ever walked on a path filled with thorns. Umar answered, "Yes." Ubayy then asked what he did. Umar said, "I gathered up my clothes and walked carefully." Ubayy replied, "That is Taqwa."

This beautiful example illustrates that Taqwa means being cautious and mindful in every step of life to avoid actions that displease Allah.

Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA)

Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA) described Taqwa as:

"Fear of the Majestic (Allah), acting upon the Revelation, being content with little, and preparing for the Day of Departure."

This definition highlights that Taqwa combines faith, obedience, gratitude, and preparation for the Hereafter.

Imam Ibn Rajab Al-Hanbali

Imam Ibn Rajab explained that Taqwa is placing a barrier between oneself and Allah's punishment by obeying His commands and avoiding His prohibitions.

According to him, true Taqwa is not limited to avoiding major sins but includes being careful about even small acts that may lead a person away from righteousness.

Imam Al-Ghazali

Imam Al-Ghazali emphasized that Taqwa begins in the heart and is reflected in one's actions. He taught that a person with Taqwa constantly examines their intentions and strives to purify their heart from arrogance, envy, and hypocrisy.

Ibn Taymiyyah

Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah defined Taqwa as obeying Allah upon a light from Allah, hoping for His reward, and leaving disobedience to Allah upon a light from Allah, fearing His punishment.

This definition shows that Taqwa is built upon knowledge, faith, and sincere devotion.

Examples of Taqwa in Daily Life

1. Being Honest in All Situations

A person with Taqwa remains truthful even when lying could bring personal benefit. They know that Allah is aware of every word they speak.

2. Guarding the Tongue

Avoiding gossip, backbiting, slander, and harmful speech is a clear sign of Taqwa. A believer carefully considers their words before speaking.

3. Performing Prayers on Time

One of the strongest examples of Taqwa is maintaining the five daily prayers consistently and sincerely.

4. Avoiding Haram Earnings

A person of Taqwa chooses lawful income and stays away from dishonest business practices, fraud, and corruption.

5. Lowering the Gaze

Protecting oneself from inappropriate sights and desires reflects awareness of Allah and commitment to His commands.

6. Showing Kindness and Mercy

Taqwa is reflected in treating family members, neighbors, colleagues, and strangers with respect, compassion, and fairness.

7. Repenting After Mistakes

People with Taqwa are not sinless, but when they commit a mistake, they quickly turn to Allah in sincere repentance.

8. Remembering Allah in Private

One of the greatest signs of Taqwa is obeying Allah even when no one else is watching. Such a person understands that Allah sees everything.

The Highest Level of Taqwa

The scholars explain that the highest level of Taqwa is when a believer becomes so conscious of Allah that every action is guided by the desire to please Him. This level leads to sincerity, humility, patience, gratitude, and unwavering faith.

Conclusion

Islamic scholars have described Taqwa as a shield that protects believers from sin and brings them closer to Allah. Through their teachings and examples, we learn that Taqwa is not merely fear of punishment but a deep awareness of Allah that shapes our character, decisions, and relationship with Him. By striving for honesty, sincerity, obedience, and repentance, every Muslim can strengthen their Taqwa and move closer to the pleasure of Allah.

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