Intention greatly influences the value of actions, and what a person intends is what matters.
In the Holy Quran, intention (niyyah) is recognized as one of the fundamental pillars that determine the value of deeds. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 225, it states: "Allah does not impose upon a soul a duty, except to the extent of its ability." This indicates that not only does Allah observe the actions we perform, but He also pays attention to our intentions behind them. Therefore, if someone intends to perform a good deed, even if they do not succeed in that, Allah will reward them based on their good intention. Furthermore, in Surah Al-An'am, verse 160, it emphasizes that each person will be held accountable only for what they intended. This underscores the necessity that our intentions must be for the sake of Allah and not for seeking the attention of others or for worldly gain. Additionally, there is a narration from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stating, "Actions are judged by intentions, and for every person is what he intended." Thus, if our intention is pure and sincere, our deeds will also be accepted by Allah, and otherwise, if our intention is not sincere, our actions may remain worthless. This teaching also reminds us to maintain sincerity and goodwill in all our daily affairs and conduct every action with a good intention and for the sake of Allah.
Allah does not impose upon a soul a duty, except to the extent of its ability.
And whoever does harm to himself is not held accountable by Allah.
Once upon a time, there was a man named Ali who was searching for the true meaning of the value of his deeds. Every day he would visit his teacher and ask how he could enhance the value of what he did. The teacher replied, "Dear Ali, the value of your deeds depends not only on the action itself but also on your intention behind it. Any action you perform, if done with pure intention and for God's pleasure, will be valued by Him." Ali reflected on this profound insight and decided to carry out every action with a sincere intention. From that day forward, his life took on a new hue, and a sense of fulfillment and peace enveloped his heart.