How can I make my repentance real and profound?

Repentance (Tawbah) in Islam is a profound and sincere return to God after straying from the divine path and committing sins. This return is not merely a verbal act but an internal transformation and a firm resolve to abandon sin and rectify past wrongs. The Holy Quran presents repentance as a great blessing and a path to purification and salvation, commanding believers to engage in 'Tawbah Nasuh,' which means a sincere and unadulterated repentance that emanates from the depths of the soul and encompasses essential pillars. For our repentance to be real and profound, we must pay attention to its various dimensions and pursue it with earnestness and pure intention. True repentance is more than just uttering 'Astaghfirullah' (I seek forgiveness from Allah); it is a comprehensive and transformative process that envelops a person's heart, mind, and behavior. The first, and perhaps most crucial, pillar of real repentance is a sense of genuine remorse and regret. This regret must stem from the core of one's being, not merely regret for the worldly consequences of the sin, but regret for having violated divine commands and distanced oneself from God's pleasure. It is this feeling of remorse that plants the seed of transformation in the heart and propels an individual towards change. Indeed, this remorse is a sign of a living conscience and the light of faith within a person's heart. If one is not regretful of their sin, how can they expect forgiveness? Heartfelt remorse is the initial step to cleanse the heart's tablet from the defilement of sin, indicating that the individual has truly comprehended the ugliness of their act and the magnitude of God's right upon them. The second pillar is the immediate abandonment of sin (Iqla'). Repentance is only genuine when the person immediately ceases the sinful act and puts it aside. One cannot simultaneously claim repentance while continuing to commit the sin. This cessation must be resolute and without hesitation. For example, if someone repents from lying, they must decide from that very moment not to lie again. This practical step demonstrates the sincerity of the repentance and strengthens the individual's resolve against their lower self (nafs al-ammarah) and Satanic temptations. If this step is not taken, repentance remains merely a wish or an idle word, lacking real impact. This abandonment signifies that the individual has moved beyond mere regret to the stage of action and change. The third pillar is a firm resolve and decisive commitment not to return to sin. This determination must be heartfelt and enduring. It means the individual makes a covenant with themselves never to revert to that sin. Of course, humans may have weaknesses and stumble again, but what is crucial is that this resolve exists at the moment of repentance, and if a slip occurs, they return to God's threshold with renewed remorse and stronger determination. This resolve is not only for the specific sin one is repenting from but should encompass a general commitment to a cleaner life, more devoted to divine commands. This resolve forms the foundation for long-term behavioral changes and steadfastness on the divine path. The fourth pillar is making amends for violated rights (Radd al-Mazalim). If the sin committed has harmed another's rights (financial, physical, or reputational), then for real repentance, it is necessary to compensate for the violated rights or seek forgiveness from the wronged party. This step demonstrates accountability and sincerity in facing the consequences of one's actions. Without this compensation, repentance remains solely between the individual and God, and the rights of people (Huquq al-Nas), which are considered paramount in Islam, are neglected. Striving to rectify what has been spoiled is an integral part of true repentance. This act not only purifies one from sin but also brings profound inner peace to the repentant person and improves their relationship with God's creation. The Holy Quran alludes to these dimensions of repentance in various verses. In Surah At-Tahrim, verse 8, Allah states: "O you who have believed, repent to Allah with sincere repentance." This verse clearly emphasizes the importance of 'Tawbah Nasuh,' which is indeed the real and profound repentance. Similarly, in Surah An-Nisa, verse 17, it says: "The acceptance of repentance by Allah is only for those who do wrong in ignorance [or carelessness] and then repent soon after." This verse stresses the element of 'promptness' in repentance; meaning, repentance should occur immediately after committing the sin, rather than delaying it until the opportunity is lost, as stated in verse 18 of the same Surah. This swiftness in repentance is a sign of sincerity and intense remorse. True repentance not only covers sins but can also transform them into good deeds, as we read in Surah Al-Furqan, verse 70: "Except for those who repent, believe and do righteous work. For them Allah will change their evil deeds into good ones." This verse demonstrates the boundless grace of Allah, who not only forgives sins but, through righteous deeds after repentance, transforms them into rewards. This divine promise provides a great motivation for people to distance themselves from despair and, through sincere repentance, change the course of their lives towards light and goodness. Repentance is an opportunity for a fresh start and building a better future. To deepen repentance, in addition to the above pillars, one must pay attention to certain points: self-reflection and accountability (Muhasabah al-Nafs), meaning constantly scrutinizing one's actions and learning from mistakes. Increasing good deeds, which not only compensates for the past but also acts as a barrier against future sins. Continuous supplication (Dua) and seeking forgiveness (Istighfar), especially in solitude and during the latter part of the night when connection with God is deepest. Avoiding sinful environments and company that might lead one back to transgression. And finally, trust and hope in Divine forgiveness; for despairing of God's mercy is itself a grave sin. By adhering to these principles, repentance transforms from an event into a lifestyle that constantly keeps a person on the path of growth and closeness to God. This process transforms an individual into a more responsible, committed, and deeply faithful being, always striving for the pleasure of their Lord.