Does God know my intention before I express it?

In the life-giving teachings of Islam and based on the explicit verses of the Holy Quran, the answer to the question, "Does God know my intention before I express it?" is unequivocally "Yes." Almighty Allah possesses absolute and all-encompassing knowledge from which nothing, whether hidden or manifest, remains concealed. This divine knowledge not only includes human actions but also extends to the deepest thoughts, inner whisperings, and intentions that a person might not even be fully aware of or choose not to express. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the boundless knowledge of Allah. For instance, in Surah Al-Imran, verse 29, Allah explicitly states: "Say: Whether you hide what is in your hearts or manifest it, Allah knows it; and He knows what is in the heavens and what is in the earth; and Allah has power over all things." This verse clearly indicates that even the most concealed thoughts and intentions of the human heart are known and revealed to Allah. The human heart, being the center of intentions and thoughts, has no veil before divine knowledge. Furthermore, in Surah Qaf, verse 16, Allah declares: "And We have already created man and know what his soul whispers to him, and We are closer to him than [his] jugular vein." This verse not only emphasizes Allah’s awareness of inner intentions and whisperings but also illustrates His utmost closeness to humanity. This proximity signifies Allah's complete encompassment of all aspects of human existence, such that no thought or intention, before its full formation or even before a person intends to express it, is hidden from His knowledge. One of the most significant implications of this all-encompassing divine knowledge is the importance of "niyyah" (intention) in human deeds. In Islam, the heart's intention and inner motivation are considered the fundamental basis for evaluating actions. A good deed without a pure intention may be deemed worthless, while a good intention, even if it doesn't materialize into an action due to obstacles, can still be rewarded. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Actions are by intentions." This noble hadith complements our understanding of divine knowledge of intentions. Allah not only knows what intentions we harbor in our hearts but also rewards or punishes us based on those very intentions. This absolute awareness of our intentions by Allah has a profound impact on the life of a believer. Firstly, it prompts individuals to constantly purify their hearts and intentions. They know that they cannot deceive Allah through outward pretense or hypocrisy, for He is aware of the innermost layers of human existence. This awareness helps to strengthen "ikhlas" (sincerity) in actions, leading individuals to perform deeds solely for Allah's pleasure, rather than to gain attention from others or worldly benefits. Secondly, Allah's knowledge of intentions provides comfort and reassurance. Often, a person might perform an act with good intentions but face criticism due to lack of success or misunderstanding from others. In such situations, knowing that Allah is aware of their true intention provides solace and peace. Moreover, those who harbor pure intentions but do not get the opportunity to perform a good deed will, by Allah's grace, receive a reward for their intention; for Allah never overlooks a good intention. Thirdly, this divine knowledge encourages greater responsibility for one's thoughts and intentions. Just because a thought has not been expressed does not mean it is insignificant. If malicious intentions are nurtured in the mind and reach the stage of decision, even if they are not acted upon due to external obstacles, Allah is still aware of them and, depending on the seriousness and persistence of that intention, one might be held accountable. However, Allah’s mercy is vast, and fleeting satanic whispers or unwelcome thoughts that a person immediately repents for are covered by His mercy and forgiveness. In conclusion, the truth that Allah is aware of our intentions before we express them serves as a strong pillar in the edifice of a believer's faith and self-purification. This awareness guides individuals towards a life of inner honesty, piety (taqwa), and complete sincerity. This divine knowledge not only demonstrates the Creator's unparalleled power and greatness but also symbolizes His justice and wisdom, by which every action is judged based on its true intention, and rewards and punishments are determined accordingly. This profound understanding helps us to foster a more sincere and deeper relationship with our Lord, for we know that nothing is hidden from Him, and He is more knowledgeable of what passes through hearts than anyone else.