How to maintain your intention in good deeds?

Maintaining a pure intention (niyyah) in performing good deeds is one of the most crucial, yet challenging, aspects of spiritual growth and drawing closer to Allah Almighty. In Islamic culture, and particularly in the teachings of the Holy Quran, intention holds a central position because actions derive their true validity and value from the purity of their underlying intention. Without a pure intention, even the grandest good deeds might be considered worthless in the sight of Allah, simply because their primary objective was not to seek the Creator's pleasure but rather to gain human attention or worldly benefits. This fundamental principle is also reflected in the famous Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): “Indeed, actions are judged by intentions.” The Holy Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of Ikhlas, which signifies purity and sincerity in intention. Ikhlas means performing every action, whether it be an act of worship or a social endeavor, solely for the sake of attaining divine pleasure, without any trace of riya (showing off), sum’ah (seeking reputation), or any worldly gain. For instance, in Surah Al-Bayyinah, verse 5, Allah Almighty states: “And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion, inclining to truth, and to establish prayer and to give zakah. And that is the correct religion.” This verse explicitly declares that the purpose of creation and servitude is pure worship of Allah, and Ikhlas is considered the backbone of religious devotion. One of the most significant challenges in preserving intention is the temptation of riya (showing off) and seeking praise. Humans naturally desire admiration and wish for their good deeds to be acknowledged. The Quran warns against this affliction in several verses. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 264, Allah says: “O you who have believed, do not invalidate your charities with reminders [of it] or [other] injury, like one who spends his wealth [only] to be seen by the people and does not believe in Allah and the Last Day.” This verse illustrates that riya can nullify the reward of even the greatest acts of charity. To counter this temptation, one must constantly remind oneself that the only true observer and real reward-giver is Allah, and people’s opinions can never hold the same value as divine pleasure. To maintain and strengthen pure intention, several strategies inspired by Quranic teachings can be adopted: 1. Focus on Tawhid (Oneness of God): The central pillar of all Quranic teachings is Tawhid. If a person truly believes that “La ilaha illa Allah” (there is no deity except Allah) and that He is the sole Creator, Sustainer, and Disposer of all affairs, then it naturally follows that all their actions and intentions should be directed solely for His pleasure. This profound belief is the best protection against shirk al-khafi (hidden polytheism, like riya). 2. Concentration on the Hereafter and Divine Reward: The Quran consistently portrays worldly life as transient and fleeting, while the Hereafter is described as eternal and true. When an individual’s primary goal is Allah’s pleasure and the rewards of the Afterlife, they will no longer chase fleeting worldly praises. Surah Al-Isra, verse 19, states: “But whoever desires the Hereafter and exerts the effort due to it while he is a believer - then those are the ones whose effort is appreciated [by Allah].” This verse emphasizes that sincere efforts made for the Hereafter are accepted and rewarded by Allah. 3. Self-Accountability (Muhasabah) and Continuous Self-Assessment: A believer should regularly examine their intentions and ask themselves whether they are truly performing an action for Allah or for something else. This continuous self-assessment helps in identifying and correcting impure motives. A moment of reflection before starting any task, and a reminder that “Allah sees,” can help rectify the intention. 4. Concealing Good Deeds as Much as Possible: In some cases, to protect intention from the blight of riya, it is better to perform good deeds secretly, especially those that are individual acts of worship, such as voluntary prayers, hidden charities, and remembrance of Allah (dhikr). This does not mean avoiding public good deeds altogether, but rather, when there is a fear of riya, secrecy is preferable. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 271: “If you disclose your charitable expenditures, it is good; but if you conceal them and give them to the poor, it is better for you.” This verse indicates that concealing charity, if done with pure intention, can hold a higher value. 5. Supplication (Du’a) and Seeking Refuge in Allah: Since hearts are in the hands of Allah, one should constantly implore Him to purify their intentions and protect them from the evil of riya and self-admiration. Quranic supplications and the prayers of the Imams (peace be upon them) are rich sources for seeking pure intention. For instance, the supplication “Allahumma ij’alna mukhliseen laka fi deenina” (O Allah, make us sincere to You in our religion) can constantly be on a believer’s tongue. 6. Renewing Intention: During the course of a long good deed, one’s intention might waver. Therefore, renewing the intention and repeatedly recalling the primary goal (Allah’s pleasure) at various stages of the work is highly effective. This repetition helps to solidify pure intention and prevent it from deviating. Ultimately, maintaining pure intention is a continuous process and a constant inner struggle. It requires ongoing awareness, self-control, and complete reliance on Allah. One who acts with pure intention not only receives immense reward in the Hereafter but also experiences inner peace and blessings in their deeds in this world, for their heart is freed from dependence on the praise and criticism of others and is solely attached to the pleasure of their Lord.