Riya | EPISODE 8 | HIRA 2025

Summary

In this speech, the speaker discusses the concept of 'Ria' (showing off) in Islam, which refers to performing acts of worship for the sake of gaining attention or praise from others rather than for the sake of Allah. The speaker highlights the dangers of Ria, emphasizing that it corrupts one's intentions and nullifies the reward of good deeds. The speech cites relevant Quranic verses and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), stressing the importance of sincerity in worship and reminding the audience to be cautious of such behaviors to ensure their deeds are accepted by Allah.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker begins by expressing gratitude to Allah and greeting the audience with Islamic phrases, emphasizing the significance of this gathering.
• 😀 The speaker acknowledges various dignitaries and scholars, showing respect and gratitude for the opportunity to speak.
• 😀 The main topic of the speech is about the concept of 'Ria' (showing off in religious deeds), which is a harmful act in Islam.
• 😀 'Ria' refers to performing religious actions for the purpose of showing off rather than sincerely worshiping Allah.
• 😀 The speaker stresses that performing actions with the intention of showing off can ruin one's sincerity and make deeds invalid.
• 😀 A Quranic verse from Surah Al-Ma'un (4-6) is referenced, warning about the dangers of being heedless in prayer and performing deeds for show.
• 😀 Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) expressed great concern about 'Ria', considering it a form of 'small shirk' (associating partners with Allah).
• 😀 Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA) provides three signs of 'Ria': laziness in worship when alone, eagerness when others are present, and performing acts for praise.
• 😀 The speaker cites an example of Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA) teaching that true humility in prayer and worship comes from the heart, not from outward appearance.
• 😀 The speech concludes with a reminder that actions should be done with sincerity for Allah's pleasure, and a prayer for all to be protected from the harms of 'Ria'.

Q & A

What is the main theme discussed in the speaker's speech?

The main theme discussed in the speech is the concept of 'Ria,' a form of showing off or insincerity in acts of worship and good deeds, which is considered a disease of the heart in Islam.

How does the speaker define 'Ria' in the context of the speech?

'Ria' is described as a heart disease that leads people to perform good deeds, not for the sake of Allah, but to show off and gain praise from others. It is a form of insincerity in worship and actions.

What is the significance of the Quranic verse mentioned in the speech?

The speaker refers to Surah Al-Ma'un, which warns about the consequences for those who perform actions such as prayer without sincerity and care for others. The verse highlights the dangers of neglecting one’s duties in worship and of showing off in acts of goodness.

What did the Prophet Muhammad (saw) say about the fear of 'Ria' in the hadith shared by the speaker?

The Prophet Muhammad (saw) expressed that the thing he feared most for his followers was 'small shirk' (minor polytheism), which the companions later understood to be 'Ria'—acting with insincerity in worship and good deeds.

How does the speaker use the example of Ali ibn Abi Talib in the speech?

The speaker mentions a teaching of Ali ibn Abi Talib, where he identifies three signs of 'Ria': performing acts of worship with enthusiasm when in public but not when alone, being active in worship when praised by others, and showing off in worshipful acts.

What advice does the speaker give regarding sincerity in worship and actions?

The speaker advises that true sincerity in worship and good deeds is internal and should not be performed merely for outward show. They emphasize that acts of worship, such as prayer, should be done with a pure intention, seeking the pleasure of Allah alone.

How does the speaker describe the impact of 'Ria' on a person's spiritual journey?

'Ria' is presented as a destructive force that corrupts a person's heart and their actions, leading to insincere worship. It is warned that such actions could make a person’s good deeds void, as only those done with sincerity are accepted by Allah.

What was the speaker's reflection on the importance of avoiding 'Ria' for personal spiritual growth?

The speaker reflects that avoiding 'Ria' is crucial for spiritual purity and that a person’s worship should be genuine and free from the desire for recognition. The essence of worship is for the sake of Allah, and any deviation from this intention can lead to the failure of the deeds.

How does the speaker connect the concept of 'Ria' with the idea of 'Khusyu' (devotion) in prayer?

The speaker refers to an incident with Umar ibn Al-Khattab, who corrected a person for showing physical signs of devotion, teaching that true devotion (khusyu) is internal and not dependent on outward expressions of piety or performing actions to be seen by others.

What is the overall message that the speaker wants to convey in the speech?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of performing good deeds with sincerity, solely for the sake of Allah, and avoiding 'Ria,' which can undermine both individual spirituality and the acceptance of one’s deeds in the eyes of Allah. The goal is to act with purity of intention in worship and daily life.