Our heart is the most significant part of the body and so is the purification of the heart in Islam carries vital importance. The heart reflects the inner self and controls the deeds at most. The Holy Quran states the heart as “Qalb” and emphasizes the importance of purification of the heart in Islam. On the day of judgment, it is a sound heart that will save us from hellfire. So here we are shedding some light on the purification of the heart in Islam in the aspects of the Holy Quran and Sunnah.
Purification of the heart in Islam via Quran
A pure heart will signify a good character and a pure soul. Thus, heart is not just a flesh in our body but it is a hub of all the feelings, emotions, desires, remembrance, as well as attention.
In the Holy Quran, Allah Almighty says:
“Their hearts relax at the remembrance of Allah”
(Quran, 39:23)
Peace of mind and heart comes from the remembrance of Almighty Allah. So remember Almighty Allah and purify your soul and heart with the source of the Holy Quran.
In another verse, Allah Almighty said in Quran:
“He has succeeded who purifies the soul, and he has failed who corrupts the soul.”
(Quran, 91:9-10)
The mentioned Ayah is reflecting that our whole success in the hereafter depends on the purification of hearts and our deeds.
Purification of the heart in Islam via Hadiths
The Prophet (SAW) said:
“Nothing is heavier on the believer’s Scale on the Day of Judgment than good character”
(Tirmidhi)
It is clear from the above Hadith that on the day of judgment, a person’s good character and pure heart will take him to paradise.
In another hadith ‘Abu Huraira narrated, the Messenger of Allah (PBUH), said,
“Allah does not look at your figures, nor at your attire but He looks at your hearts and accomplishments.”’
(Sahih Muslim)
Thus, focus deliberately to improve your state of heart and try to improve your character by performing good deeds even they are small. These small good deeds will help to be productive and encourage you to learn more about religion Islam.
Here we are mentioning some of the tips from the Quran and Sunnah that will facilitate us to purify the heart and the soul.
How to purify the heart in Islam? Guidance through the Holy Quran
Start heart purification journey with repentance
It is obvious that sins are obstacles in the performance of good deeds. So start your journey of purification of your heart with repentance and get Allah’s blessings and love.
In Holy Quran, Allah Almighty says:
“Allah loves those who constantly repent”
(Quran, 2:222)
Our beloved Prophet (SAW) said that:
“The best of creation would seek repentance over 70 times a day; repentance from a sin reduces its sweetness – it discourages you from doing it again.”
Focus on positive inner thoughts
Allah Almighty is really close to us even near to our jugular vein. So Almighty Allah is all aware of our thoughts and knows what is in our minds. So pay attention to your inner thoughts and analyze the aspects of life that can bring mental comfort to you.
In Quran Allah says:
“And We have already created man and know what his soul whispers to him, and We are closer to him than [his] jugular vein”
(Quran, 50:16)
Perform All obligatory prayers
The purification of the heart in Islam is greatly obtained through the prayers. So, remain focused on performing obligatory prayers and if possible start praying nawafil and tahajjud as these prayers will fill the spiritual gap in life.
Allah says in Quran:
“He has succeeded who purifies himself, who remembers the name of his Lord and prays.”
(Quran, 87:14-15)
Do Small Acts of Kindness
Instead of pointing others’ mistakes, focus on your deeds. As with the purification of the heart in Islam, we will get aware of all good deeds and start adding kindness in it. Allah Almighty says in Holy Quran:
Take from their wealth a charity by which you cleanse them and purify them, and invoke blessings upon them.”
(Quran, 92:103)
Charity is not only about giving money but kind words, smiles, and efforts.
Read Quran Daily
Start reading the Holy Quran daily after five prayers even it is few lines. Reading Quran is one of the greatest forms of Dhikr. By reading the Quran daily, we will remain connected to Almighty Allah and avoid sins as well as achieving peace.
Allah Almighty says in Quran:
“Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah, hearts are assured.”
(Quran, 13:28)
Every good deed is centered around the purification of the heart in Islam. Once our hearts are purified, we will feel all light and beautiful while pleasing Almighty Allah. May we follow the righteous path that could lead us to Jannah. Aameen!
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