Salaams, could you please clarify for me what exactly is taqwa, how does one aquire taqwa, and what are the benefits/rewards if one does have taqwa in his/her life?? Jazakallah
Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA) said that the Haqeeqat (reality) of Taqwa is
for Tayaqquz (alertness) to be created in all facets of life. This means
that one should ponder upon every step whether this is for Allah or for the
Nafs or how much is for Allah and how much is for the Nafs.
Hadhrat Umar (Radhiallaahu Anhu) asked Hadhrat Ka’b Ahbaar (Radhiallaahu
Anhu), ‘What is the reality of Taqwa?’ He said, ‘Have you ever passed a
thorny tree?’ He answered, ‘Yes’. He asked, ‘How did you pass?’ He answered,
‘I passed with such care that I ensured that no thorn got caught into my
hem.’ He said, ‘In the very same way, the reality of Taqwa is for one to
save himself from the thorns of sins and negligence. The companionship of
the pious plays a vital role for inculcating Taqwa. Alhamdulillah, with the
effort of Tabligh, such sincere servants are present who reminds one of the
Aakhirat and removes negligence from the heart. Hence, remain steadfast on
the teachings and Mashwara of the elders and constantly spend time in the
path of Allah through which, Insha Allah, Allah will bless one with this
great quality of Taqwa.
and Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
Mufti Ebrahim Desai
FATWA DEPT.