How To Attain Taqwa - Nouman Ali Khan | Powerful Reminder | BabUlJannah

Summary

The video explains the concept of 'taqwa' in Islam, which means taking protective measures to avoid harm or displeasing Allah. It emphasizes that taqwa is not just fear but actions taken out of fear to protect oneself, such as locking doors or preparing for a long journey. The speaker connects taqwa to fasting, showing how fasting trains individuals to control their desires and develop a deeper consciousness of Allah. Through fasting, one learns self-restraint, making obedience to Allah easier in other aspects of life.

Takeaways

• 🛡️ Taqwa means to protect oneself, rooted in the Arabic word 'wiqaya,' which refers to taking protective measures out of fear or caution.
• 💡 Taqwa is not just fear; it is the actions one takes to avoid harm or danger, both physically and spiritually.
• 🔒 People act on taqwa by taking precautions, like locking doors or avoiding trouble, based on the fear of potential danger.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Taqwa can also have a positive meaning, such as taking precautions to avoid displeasing family members or Allah.
• 📖 Taqwa is one of the most repeated themes in the Quran, mentioned over 200 times, and is essential to Islamic teachings.
• 🤔 Fasting is described as one of the practical exercises that helps cultivate taqwa, as it requires self-control and restraint.
• 💦 Fasting challenges the body's physical desires, like hunger and thirst, and requires strength of will to resist them for Allah's sake.
• 👶 Even children can practice taqwa, as shown by examples of young kids resisting temptation while fasting.
• 💪 Fasting is a rigorous exercise that trains a person to overcome strong desires, making it easier to obey Allah in other aspects of life.
• 🏋️‍♂️ The concept of fasting is compared to military training: if one can endure tough training (like fasting), other acts of worship and obedience become easier.

Q & A

What is the meaning of the term 'taqwa' in Arabic?

'Taqwa' comes from the Arabic word 'wiqaya,' which means to protect or safeguard. It refers to taking precautions to shield oneself from harm, especially in a spiritual or moral sense.

How is 'taqwa' often misunderstood in terms of fear?

Taqwa is commonly associated with fear, but it is not fear itself. Rather, it is the protective actions taken as a result of fear, like locking doors or avoiding danger. It’s about being cautious and mindful, not just feeling afraid.

How does 'taqwa' relate to practical daily actions?

Taqwa can be demonstrated in daily life through small actions that help avoid problems or mistakes, such as finishing homework early to avoid rushing later. It’s about being responsible and taking precautions to prevent negative outcomes.

Why is 'taqwa' mentioned over 200 times in the Quran?

'Taqwa' is one of the most important themes in the Quran because it is a comprehensive concept that encompasses protection, mindfulness, and responsibility in one's relationship with Allah. It is central to spiritual development and obedience to God's commands.

How does fasting help develop 'taqwa'?

Fasting trains a person in 'taqwa' by forcing them to control their basic desires, like hunger and thirst, and to remain obedient to Allah despite bodily urges. This exercise in self-control develops a consciousness of Allah and strengthens one's ability to resist temptations.

What does the Quran say about fasting in relation to 'taqwa'?

The Quran mentions fasting as a means to develop 'taqwa,' but it does not guarantee that fasting will automatically lead to it. It emphasizes that fasting, when done correctly, has the potential to help a person become more conscious of Allah and His commands.

How does fasting train a person to handle other acts of obedience?

By denying oneself the most fundamental needs, such as food and drink, during fasting, a person builds the ability to control other aspects of their life. Once fasting is mastered, other acts of obedience to Allah, such as avoiding sinful behaviors, become easier to manage.

What is the connection between fasting and military training as mentioned in the script?

Fasting is compared to military training because both involve rigorous self-discipline and control. Once someone has gone through the tough exercise of fasting, they are better equipped to handle other, less difficult tasks, just like a soldier finds regular workouts easier after completing intense training.

Why is the feeling of thirst and hunger during fasting significant?

The physical sensations of thirst and hunger during fasting represent the body's natural urges, which must be suppressed in obedience to Allah. These feelings create a direct internal conflict where the body asks for relief, but the heart and mind remind the person to remain patient and obedient.

How does fasting teach a person to resist their strongest desires?

Fasting requires a person to resist not only hunger and thirst but also intimate desires, showing that they can control even the strongest physical and emotional needs. This discipline is a key part of developing 'taqwa' as it strengthens one's ability to avoid sinful actions outside of fasting.