Why are some behaviors outwardly good but with corrupt intentions?

In the comprehensive and profound school of Islam, the inner intention (*niyyah*) of a human being holds an unparalleled and fundamental significance. As the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated, "Actions are by intentions." This foundational principle serves as the crucial distinction between deeds that merely possess a beautiful and benevolent outward form but originate from a corrupt source, and those actions performed with sincerity purely for the sake of God Almighty. The Holy Quran explicitly emphasizes that Allah does not look at the outward appearance of deeds but rather at their inner essence and the intention behind them. This concept applies not only to individual acts of worship but also to all spheres of social life and human relationships. One of the most striking examples of outwardly good behavior stemming from corrupt intentions is *riya* (ostentation or showing off). Riya means performing a good deed for people to see it and praise the person, rather than to gain the pleasure of Allah. A person who practices riya might pray, fast, give charity, or even strive in the path of Allah, but their primary motivation is to attract attention, gain social status, or achieve worldly benefits. The Quran severely condemns riya in several verses. For instance, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 264, Allah likens those who spend their wealth for show to a smooth rock covered with a thin layer of soil; when heavy rain falls upon it, it washes away the soil, leaving the rock bare. This metaphor illustrates that deeds performed with ostentatious intentions have no value or reward with Allah, and their worldly benefits are also unstable and worthless. This type of behavior erodes the foundation of trust in society, gradually causing people to view every benevolent act with suspicion, as they cannot discern the individual's true intention. Another aspect of this phenomenon is *nifaq* (hypocrisy). Hypocrisy is a state in which an individual outwardly displays faith and camaraderie while inwardly concealing disbelief, enmity, or indifference. Hypocrites are considered the most dangerous enemies of religion and society because they strike from behind the guise of friendship and faith. The Quran, particularly in Surah Al-Munafiqun and parts of Surah Al-Baqarah and An-Nisa, elaborates on the characteristics and consequences of hypocrisy. Allah places hypocrites in the lowest depths of Hell because their misguidance and corruption are not limited to themselves but harm society. Hypocritical behavior can manifest as outward assistance, pleasant words, or even participation in charitable endeavors, but its ultimate goal is to undermine others, deceive, or achieve wicked personal objectives. Such individuals, with their outwardly good appearance, can deceive the gullible and advance their evil schemes. The difference between riya and nifaq is that riya is primarily manifested in acts of worship and individual deeds, while nifaq has more of a doctrinal and political aspect, meaning feigning belief while concealing disbelief. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes that Allah is the Knower of the unseen, the hidden, and the apparent. No intention, no matter how deeply concealed in the heart, remains hidden from divine knowledge. This absolute divine awareness ensures that human actions are judged based on their intentions. Even if an outwardly good deed stems from pride, malice, envy, or personal gain, it will hold no value in the divine scales. This teaching places a great responsibility on humans to pay attention not only to their actions but also to the intentions behind them, and to constantly strive to purify their hearts and souls from inner impurities. This purification requires deep self-awareness, struggle against the commanding self (nafs al-ammarah), and seeking assistance from Allah Almighty. One must always be careful that even when performing good deeds, their motivation and intention are pure and solely for the pleasure of the Lord, not for gaining fame, power, or wealth. The importance of this issue is so great that it is even stated in a Qudsi Hadith that Allah says: "I look at your hearts and your deeds." This indicates a direct and strong connection between pure intention and the acceptance of deeds by Allah. Therefore, even if an action appears good, but a corrupt inner self and a non-divine intention are hidden behind it, it will not only fail to bring closeness to Allah but may even lead to distancing from Him and punishment. This is divine wisdom that teaches humanity that true virtue lies in sincerity of intention and purity of heart, not in outward and deceptive displays that can mislead many and lead to the degradation of moral and spiritual values in society.