An authentic teaching
Purpose changes the value of an action
Two outwardly similar actions can differ in reward because their purposes differ. Giving may be for Allah or for recognition.
Intention belongs in the heart; a spoken formula is not required. Renew sincerity before, during and after the action.
﴿وَمَا أُمِرُوا إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ الدِّينَ﴾
Quran 98:5Read the English meaning ↗Action, not wishful thinking
Good intentions do not make wrong actions right
A good purpose does not make a prohibited act lawful or replace following the Sunnah and fulfilling people’s rights.
Allah may reward a sincere intention to do good when a genuine excuse prevents the act after the person has taken appropriate steps.
Read carefully
Boundaries of understanding and application
No required spoken formulaIntention is an act of the heart.
Avoid obsessive repetitionKnowing what you are doing and why does not require exhausting repetition.
Two principlesWorship combines sincerity with following revealed guidance.
Lesson summary
What to remember
- 1Purpose matters.
- 2Intention is in the heart.
- 3Good intent does not permit wrongdoing.
- 4Renew sincerity calmly.
Quick questions
Where is intention?+
In the heart; pronouncing it is not required.
Does a good intention make every action correct?+
No. The action must also be lawful and properly performed.