SPIRIT, NOT FORM

HERE is a tradition of the Prophet narrated by Anas-ibn-Malik and recorded in Sahih-al-Bukhari. Three companions of the Prophet once visited his house. The Prophet was not present at the time, so they asked his wives how he worshipped. When the Prophet’s wives had answered them, they felt that what they had been doing in worship was insufficient.

They said, “We stand in no comparison with the Prophet. God has forgiven him for all of his failings”. One of them said, “I will spend the whole night praying”. Another said, “I will always observe the fast”. The third said, “I will always remain away from women and I will never marry.”

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In the eyes of God, what is important is the spirit of the worship we do, not the form by which we do it.

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Meanwhile, the Prophet returned. He heard what they were saying and said, “By God, I am the most God-fearing of all of you. I am more righteous than all of you. Although I observe the fast, there are times when I do not. Although I pray at night, there are times when I sleep. I am also married. So whosoever ignores my ways is not one of mine.” This hadith teaches us that it is the quality of our worship that is important, far more than the quantity. The same is the case with fasting. In the eyes of God, what is important is the spirit of the worship we do, not the form by which we do it.

Righteousness is not related to the quantity of the deeds. Extremism in deeds is against all practical wisdom. Such people will soon be weary of their actions and instead forgo them altogether. On the other hand, those who lay emphasis on the spirit or intention of their actions will be moderate in the quantity of their deeds. But all their actions will imbibe their constant connection to God. They will lead God-oriented lives consistently discovering the glory and power of God.

The addition of numbers to the deeds tires a person and the addition of spirit to the form of the deed will always keep one thrilled in it.