Attaining Closeness to Allah and the Prophet through Taqwa and the Company of the Pious
Hazrat Qari Ismail Desai Saheb
Duration
56:49
Summary
Any good deed or action we engage in is solely due to Allah's favor and ability (Tawfiq), not our own doing.
Avoid pride when performing good deeds; never consider yourself better than someone else.
True honor and acceptance in Allah's sight come from Taqwa (God-consciousness), not knowledge or outward actions alone.
If Allah grants the ability to do good, attribute it to Him and express gratitude.
Never look down on anyone, as only Allah knows their true rank and level of devotion.
One's inner spiritual state (the heart) manifests on the face; good deeds bring brightness, while evil thoughts/actions can bring a subtle darkness.
Those with spiritual insight (Basirat) can perceive the inner state and character of others beyond physical appearance.
An incident highlights this: a person who began praying Fajr for external validation was seen by his employer (an ordinary person with spiritual connection) to have prayed, without being asked, emphasizing that true devotion is visible to certain individuals.
Associating with Ahlullah (the friends of Allah) is a powerful means to achieve closeness to Allah.
Seeing one's parents grants the reward of Hajj and Umrah (seeing the Kaaba); seeing Ahlullah grants the reward of seeing the "Owner of the Kaaba" (Allah Himself).
Association with Ahlullah can help overcome persistent sins and give courage to rectify wrongs, because actions done solely for Allah's pleasure are honored by Him.
Humbling oneself for Allah's pleasure leads to elevation, respect, and dignity from Allah.
Seek association with Ahlullah and engage in various avenues of Deen (e.g., Quran teaching, social work, Dawah and Tabligh) to foster spiritual growth.
Utilize opportunities to sit in the company of pious scholars (Ulama) and Ahlullah, as even their presence can bring spiritual transformation.