In a world driven by diverse ambitions and pursuits, the concept of success holds a universal appeal. It transcends the boundaries of culture, language, and belief systems, reflecting a common human aspiration. Yet, the essence of success can vary significantly depending on one's perspective. In Islam, success is intricately linked with faith and righteous conduct, guiding individuals towards a holistic approach that encompasses both worldly achievements and eternal salvation.
Introduction
Success is a universally sought-after goal, transcending cultures, languages, and beliefs. The Arabic term frequently used to denote success is "الفلاح" (al-falah). Al-Falah comes from the root verb "فلح" (falaḥa), which means to prosper, to thrive, or to achieve well-being.
The Qur’an itself is the prescription to success. It emphasises that its guidance leads to success. There are multiple verses that imply following the Qur'anic guidance leads to success.
ذَٰلِكَ الْكِتَابُ لَا رَيْبَ ۛ فِيهِ ۛ هُدًى لِّلْمُتَّقِينَ (2) الَّذِينَ يُؤْمِنُونَ بِالْغَيْبِ وَيُقِيمُونَ الصَّلَاةَ وَمِمَّا رَزَقْنَاهُمْ يُنفِقُونَ (3) وَالَّذِينَ يُؤْمِنُونَ بِمَا أُنزِلَ إِلَيْكَ وَمَا أُنزِلَ مِن قَبْلِكَ وَبِالْآخِرَةِ هُمْ يُوقِنُونَ (4) أُو۟لَـٰٓئِكَ عَلَىٰ هُدًۭى مِّن رَّبِّهِمْ ۖ وَأُو۟لَـٰٓئِكَ هُمُ ٱلْمُفْلِحُونَ (5)
This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah. Who believe in the unseen, establish prayer, and spend out of what We have provided for them. And who believe in what has been revealed to you, [O Muhammad], and what was revealed before you, and of the Hereafter they are certain [in faith]. Those are upon [right] guidance from their Lord, and it is those who are the successful. [al-Baqarah 2:2-5]
The Qur'anic concept of success, al-falah, is comprehensive and deeply rooted in spiritual and moral values. It is not limited to material achievements but encompasses overall well-being, righteousness, and eternal bliss in the hereafter. By adhering to the principles outlined in the Qur'an, believers can achieve true and lasting success in both this life and the next.
Rasulullah SAW made a beautiful supplication encapsulating a comprehensive plea for blessings and protection from harm or loss. It's a supplication for abundance, honour, generosity, preference, and mutual satisfaction between the servant and the Creator:
اللَّهُمَّ زِدْنَا وَلا تَنْقُصْنَا، وَأَكْرِمْنَا وَلا تُهِنَّا، وَأَعْطِنَا وَلا تَحْرِمْنَا، وَآثِرْنَا وَلا تُؤْثِرْ عَلَيْنَا، وَأَرْضِنَا وَارْضَ عَنَّا
O Allah, increase us and do not decrease us, honour us and do not disgrace us, give us and do not withhold from us, prefer us and do not prefer others over us, and be pleased with us and make us pleased with You.
Tips For The Ultimate Success
For Muslim, we believe that the ultimate success is achieving Jannah, and not just Jannah, but the highest Jannah, Jannat al-Firdaws. As a matter of fact, Rasulullah SAW emphasises it in authentic hadith,
“When you ask Allah (for something), ask for Al-Firdaws which is the best and highest part of Paradise.” [Bukhari & Muslim]
In the Qur’an, there are four significant passages that capture the essence of ethical, spiritual, and behavioural qualities that lead to success and the pleasure of Allah in both this life and the hereafter. They are:
Verse 1 until verse 11 of Surah al-Mu’minoon [QS 23:1-11]: The passage concludes with the assurance that those who possess these qualities will inherit Paradise, where they will abide forever. This passage would be the topic discussed in this essay.
Verse 63 until verse 72 of Surah al-Furqan [QS 25:63-72]: These verses highlight the characteristics of the "Servants of the Most Merciful" (Ibad-ur-Rahman). The traits illustrate the moral and ethical conduct expected from the believers, promising them the reward of lofty places in Paradise.
Verse 22 until verse 35 of Surah al-Ma’rij [QS 70:22-35]: These verses outline the traits of those who will be honoured in Paradise. These qualities emphasise the importance of regular worship, ethical behaviour, and social responsibility.
Verse 12 until verse 19 of Surah Luqman [QS 31:12-19]: These verses recount the wisdom imparted by Luqman to his son, highlighting fundamental principles of faith and conduct. Luqman’s advice combines faith, worship, and ethical conduct, emphasising the integration of these elements into daily life.
The Recipe To Success Based on Surah al-Mu’minoon
قَدۡ أَفۡلَحَ ٱلۡمُؤۡمِنُونَ (1) ٱلَّذِينَ هُمۡ فِي صَلَاتِهِمۡ خَٰشِعُونَ (2) وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمۡ عَنِ ٱللَّغۡوِ مُعۡرِضُونَ (3) وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمۡ لِلزَّكَوٰةِ فَٰعِلُونَ (4) وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمۡ لِفُرُوجِهِمۡ حَٰفِظُونَ (5) إِلَّا عَلَىٰٓ أَزۡوَٰجِهِمۡ أَوۡ مَا مَلَكَتۡ أَيۡمَٰنُهُمۡ فَإِنَّهُمۡ غَيۡرُ مَلُومِينَ (6) فَمَنِ ٱبۡتَغَىٰ وَرَآءَ ذَٰلِكَ فَأُوْلَٰٓئِكَ هُمُ ٱلۡعَادُونَ (7) وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمۡ لِأَمَٰنَٰتِهِمۡ وَعَهۡدِهِمۡ رَٰعُونَ (8) وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمۡ عَلَىٰ صَلَوَٰتِهِمۡ يُحَافِظُونَ (9) أُوْلَٰٓئِكَ هُمُ ٱلۡوَٰرِثُونَ (10) ٱلَّذِينَ يَرِثُونَ ٱلۡفِرۡدَوۡسَ هُمۡ فِيهَا خَٰلِدُونَ (11)
Successful indeed the believers: They who are during their prayer humbly submissive. And they who turn away from ill speech. And they are observant of zakat. And they who guard their private parts, except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for indeed, they will not be blamed. But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors. And they who are to their trusts and their promises attentive. And they who carefully maintain their prayer. Those are the inheritors, who will inherit al-Firdaus. They will abide therein eternally. [al-Mu’minoon 23:1-11]
The above passage indeed is the recipe to success. The ingredients are:
Eeman, faith
Khushoo’ in salah
Avoidance of vain and ill speech
Tazkiya, purification
Chastity
Fulfilling amanah and promises
Maintaining salah
Ingredient #1: Eeman
قَدۡ أَفۡلَحَ ٱلۡمُؤۡمِنُونَ (1)
Successful indeed the believers [al-Mu’minoon 23:1]
The verse starts with قَدۡ certainly, surely, no doubt and followed by أَفۡلَحَ a fi’il madhi, a past perfect verb which refers to an action that is completed and in the past. This is a form of ترغيب targhib which is an Arabic term often used in Islamic context to refer to the practice of encouraging, exhorting, or motivating individuals towards good deeds and righteousness. It is derived from the root word رغب raghaba, which means to desire or to be inclined towards something. In Qur’anic context, targhib involves highlighting the rewards, benefits, and positive outcomes associated with performing good deeds, acts of worship, and moral behaviour, and in the verse قَدۡ أَفۡلَحَ : surely, it definitely will happen, very quickly and very soon; success will be achieved.
The first verse highlighted the first ingredient to success is to believe, have faith. Eeman encompasses a deep and comprehensive conviction in the heart, affirmed by the tongue, and reflected in actions. Eeman is a fundamental concept in Islamic theology and practice, representing a Muslim's inner conviction and trust in Allah and His guidance. In Hadith Jibril, mentioned the six pillars of eeman which is to believe in Allah SWT, His Angels, His Revealed Books, His Prophets and Messengers, The Day of Judgement and the Divine Decree.
Eeman starts in the heart with a firm belief and conviction. It is professed and declared openly by the tongue. True Eeman is reflected in one’s actions and behaviours, manifesting in obedience to Allah’s commands and avoidance of prohibitions. It is the essence of a Muslim’s faith and the driving force behind their devotion to Allah and adherence to His guidance.
Ingredient #2: Khushoo’ in Salah
ٱلَّذِينَ هُمۡ فِي صَلَاتِهِمۡ خَٰشِعُونَ (2)
They who are during their prayer humbly submissive. [al-Mu’minoon 23:2]
Salah صلاة is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and holds a place of immense significance in the life of a Muslim. It serves as the cornerstone of a Muslim's spiritual and moral existence. It is not just a ritualistic act but a comprehensive form of worship that embodies the essence of Islamic spirituality, discipline, and community spirit. Its significance extends beyond mere obligation, influencing a Muslim's daily life, character, and social interactions.
By performing salah, Muslims cultivate a strong connection with Allah, reinforce their faith, and promote moral and social values that benefit both the individual and the community. And the second verse clearly states that successful believers are not only consistent in their prayers but also perform them with khushu'—a deep sense of humility and concentration. This sincere devotion in worship reflects their awareness of Allah’s majesty and their own dependence on Him.
The Prophet SAW said, "The first thing to be lifted up (taken away) from this Ummah will be khushoo' (the humble submissiveness in prayer), until you will not see any humble person in it." [Bukhari]
Khushoo' خشوع in salah refers to a state of humility, concentration, and full submission to Allah. It is characterised by a deep sense of reverence, fear, and attentiveness during prayer, where a person's heart and mind are fully engaged in the act of worship. It is a reflection of our relationship with Allah SWT. A salah without khushoo’ is like a body without life.
Khushoo' transforms the prayer from a mere physical act into a profound spiritual experience, making it more meaningful and impactful. It enhances the quality of our salah.
It helps in establishing a stronger connection with Allah, fostering a deeper sense of faith and reliance on Him. The more khushoo' one has in salah, the greater the reward. Allah appreciates the sincerity and effort put into achieving this state.
We should thrive to achieve khushoo’ in our salah. Start with the right mindset and be focused. Do not rush in the salah, and stay humble. Avoid any distractions. If you feel distracted by Shaytan during Salah, recognize that it is a ploy to disturb your concentration and devotion. The Prophet Muhammad SAW provided guidance on what to do if one experiences distractions from Satan during salah.
Narrated Uthman ibn Abi al-'As:
"I said, 'O Messenger of Allah, Shaytan interferes between me and my prayer and my recitation of the Qur’an and he confounds me.' The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, 'That is a devil called Khanzab. If you feel his presence, seek refuge in Allah from him and spit dryly to your left three times.' I did that and Allah took him away from me." [Muslim]
Praying in a quiet and clean environment, free from distractions, aids in achieving concentration. Performing wudu (ablution) with mindfulness and approaching prayer with the intention of fully submitting to Allah.
Salah is not just a ritual but a transformative practice that lays the foundation for comprehensive islah (improvement). By fixing salah, Muslims can achieve personal reform, social harmony, and environmental stewardship, leading to a balanced and fulfilling life. The consistent and mindful performance of salah nurtures the soul, instils moral virtues, and fosters a sense of responsibility towards oneself, the community, and the environment. Therefore, to fix salah is indeed to fix life, aligning it with the divine purpose and leading to success in this world and the hereafter.
Khushoo' is an essential aspect of salah that elevates the quality of worship and strengthens the spiritual connection between a Muslim and Allah. It requires effort and mindfulness, but its benefits are profound, leading to greater spiritual fulfilment and closeness to Allah. Muslims are encouraged to strive for khushoo' in their prayers to ensure their worship is sincere, meaningful, and rewarding.
Ingredient #3: Avoidance of Vain & Idle Talk
وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمۡ عَنِ ٱللَّغۡوِ مُعۡرِضُونَ (3)
And they who turn away from ill speech. [al-Mu’minoon 23:3]
Guarding one’s tongue and refraining from meaningless or harmful conversations is crucial. This discipline helps in maintaining a pure heart and a focused mind, steering one away from distractions that can lead to sin.
Lagha لغو refers to idle, vain, or frivolous talk and actions that hold no benefit or value. It encompasses speech and behaviour that distracts from meaningful and purposeful living, often leading to sinful or wasteful activities. Every Muslim should avoid anything that is haram, while successful Muslim are those who avoid the lagha.
The Messenger of Allah SAW said, “Part of the perfection of one’s Islam is his leaving that which does not concern him.” [at-Tirmidhi]
Lagha distracts from the remembrance of Allah and engagement in beneficial acts of worship, leading to a weakening of one’s spiritual state. Idle talk and frivolous actions can lead to unethical behaviour, such as gossip, backbiting, and spreading falsehood, which are strictly prohibited in Islam. Engaging in lagha can cause misunderstandings, conflicts, and a breakdown of trust within the community.
Avoiding lagha helps in maintaining focus on meaningful activities, leading to greater productivity and achievement of personal and communal goals. Concentrating on beneficial speech and actions enhances one’s spirituality, fostering a closer relationship with Allah. Abstaining from lagha reinforces moral and ethical behaviour, promoting honesty, integrity, and trustworthiness.
Islam encourages believers to avoid lagha and instead engage in meaningful, productive, and beneficial activities. By steering clear of lagha, Muslims can enhance their spiritual state, moral integrity, and contribute positively to their communities, thereby aligning their lives with the principles of Islam.
Ingredient #4: Tazkiyah
وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمۡ لِلزَّكَوٰةِ فَٰعِلُونَ (4)
And they are observant of zakah [al-Mu’minoon 23:4]
Zakah in Arabic refers to purification. In this verse, the word zakah refers to both material and soul purification. It is a means of purifying one’s wealth and soul. Some scholars in view that zakah in this verse refers to tazkiyah an-nafs, soul purification since the surah was a Makki surah, and there was no alms tax during that time.
Tazkiyah تزكية in Islamic terminology refers to purification, cleansing, and growth of the soul. It encompasses both the purification of one's inner self from spiritual diseases and the cultivation of virtuous qualities and behaviours. Tazkiyah plays a fundamental role in the spiritual development and journey towards closeness to Allah in Islam.
Tazkiyah helps individuals attain inner peace and tranquillity by freeing the heart from negative emotions and distractions. By purifying the soul, one's acts of worship become more sincere, heartfelt, and spiritually uplifting. It reinforces moral integrity and ethical conduct, guiding individuals towards righteousness in their interactions and behaviours. Ultimately, tazkiyah prepares believers for the Hereafter by nurturing a strong connection with Allah, leading to eternal success and reward.
We are encouraged to consistently engage in tazkiyah. Steps toward self-purification include regular self-assessment (muhasabah) to identify shortcomings and seek forgiveness from Allah. Learning from and seeking guidance from knowledgeable scholars can greatly aid in understanding and implementing tazkiyah in daily life. Emulating the noble character and behaviours of the Prophet Muhammad SAW and striving to embody his exemplary conduct are integral parts of tazkiyah. Additionally, performing acts of worship with sincerity and devotion helps in this transformative process.
Tazkiyah is a transformative journey towards spiritual purification and growth in Islam. It involves purifying the heart from spiritual diseases, cultivating virtuous qualities, and deepening one's connection with Allah. By striving for tazkiyah, Muslims aim to attain inner peace, moral integrity, and ultimate success in the Hereafter, fulfilling the purpose of life as defined by Islamic teachings.
Ingredient #5: Chastity
وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمۡ لِفُرُوجِهِمۡ حَٰفِظُونَ (5) إِلَّا عَلَىٰٓ أَزۡوَٰجِهِمۡ أَوۡ مَا مَلَكَتۡ أَيۡمَٰنُهُمۡ فَإِنَّهُمۡ غَيۡرُ مَلُومِينَ (6) فَمَنِ ٱبۡتَغَىٰ وَرَآءَ ذَٰلِكَ فَأُوْلَٰٓئِكَ هُمُ ٱلۡعَادُونَ (7)
And they who guard their private parts, except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for indeed, they will not be blamed. But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors. [al-Mu’minoon 23:5-7]
These verses advocate for sexual morality, highlighting the importance of lawful relationships and condemning illicit ones. Upholding chastity protects individuals and society from the moral and social ills that arise from promiscuity and infidelity.
In Islam, the concepts of desire and chastity are approached with a balanced perspective that acknowledges natural human inclinations while promoting moral and spiritual discipline. Islam recognizes desires for wealth, power, sexual relations, and other worldly pleasures as part of human nature but emphasises controlling and channeling them in a manner that is pleasing to Allah.
Desires should be fulfilled through lawful means prescribed by Islamic law (Sharia). For example, sexual desires are to be satisfied within the bounds of marriage. Muslims are encouraged to avoid situations that may lead to temptation or compromise their chastity. Maintaining chastity is highly rewarded in Islam, with promises of spiritual benefits and divine pleasure. Islam promotes marriage as a legitimate means to fulfil sexual desires while maintaining chastity and moral integrity. As a matter of fact, fulfilling the desires according to Sharia’ is an act of ibadah.
Ingredient #6: Fulfilling amanah and promises
وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمۡ لِأَمَٰنَٰتِهِمۡ وَعَهۡدِهِمۡ رَٰعُونَ (8)
And they who are to their trusts and their promises attentive. [al-Mu’minoon 23:8]
Believers are also characterised by their honesty and trustworthiness. Keeping promises and fulfilling trusts are essential traits of a successful believer. These qualities build a foundation of trust and reliability in personal and professional relationships, contributing to a harmonious and just society.
In Islam, fulfilling amanah (trusts) and promises is considered a significant aspect of a believer’s character and an essential part of ethical conduct. Amanah and promises are not merely social or legal obligations but are deeply rooted in the spiritual and moral fabric of Islam.
Amanah أمانة signifies the ethical and moral responsibility entrusted to an individual by Allah, by other people, or by the community. It includes all forms of trusts and responsibilities, whether they are physical, financial, moral, or spiritual.
'Ahd عهد refers to a solemn promise, covenant, or pledge. It often denotes a strong commitment that one is bound to uphold. In the context of Islamic teachings, fulfilling one's 'ahd is a significant moral and ethical duty, and breaking it is considered a serious offence.
Fulfilling amanah and promises is a core aspect of Islamic ethics and spirituality. It reflects a Muslim's commitment to honesty, integrity, and reliability, fostering trust and social harmony. By honouring these principles, Muslims not only fulfil their religious obligations but also contribute to a just and trustworthy society.
Ingredient #7: Maintaining salah
وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمۡ عَلَىٰ صَلَوَٰتِهِمۡ يُحَافِظُونَ (9)
And they who carefully maintain their prayer. [al-Mu’minoon 23:9]
Finally, the verses return to the theme of prayer, emphasising consistency by maintaining and guarding the salah. Scholars note that this repetition underscores the centrality of prayer in a believer’s life. Islamic psychology suggests that regular prayer provides structure, fosters spiritual discipline, and offers a consistent source of comfort and guidance.
Consistent prayer establishes a routine and discipline, which are essential for achieving long-term goals and success. It provides a source of spiritual and emotional comfort, helping individuals cope with life's challenges. Regularly engaging in salah nurtures a strong spiritual connection with Allah, providing peace, tranquillity, and guidance in a believer's life.
Consistency in salah is a crucial aspect of Islamic practice, reflecting a Muslim's dedication to their faith and their relationship with Allah. By maintaining regular salah, believers can experience spiritual growth, moral discipline, and protection from sin, fulfilling their religious obligations and nurturing a peaceful, guided life. The emphasis on consistency in both the Quran and Hadith underscores its significance, encouraging Muslims to strive for regularity and devotion in their prayers.
The Ultimate Success
أُوْلَٰٓئِكَ هُمُ ٱلۡوَٰرِثُونَ (10) ٱلَّذِينَ يَرِثُونَ ٱلۡفِرۡدَوۡسَ هُمۡ فِيهَا خَٰلِدُونَ (11)
Those are the inheritors, who will inherit al-Firdaus. They will abide therein eternally. [al-Mu’minoon 23:10-11]
The passage concludes by reiterating the ultimate reward for those who embody these qualities. Al-Firdaus الفردوس, the highest level of Paradise, is promised to those who meet these criteria. This eternal reward is the pinnacle of success, far surpassing any worldly achievements.
Al-Firdaus is the most exalted part of Paradise, reserved for the most righteous and pious believers. It should be a motivation for Muslims to strive for excellence in faith, worship, and moral conduct to attain the ultimate reward in the Hereafter.
It represents the ultimate reward for believers, symbolising eternal peace, joy, and closeness to Allah. It is described as a place of unparalleled beauty, comfort, and delight, where the inhabitants will experience eternal bliss and satisfaction.
In the Surah Maryam, Allah mentioned:
ذَٰلِكَ ٱلۡجَنَّةُ ٱلَّتِي نُورِثُ مِنۡ عِبَادِنَا مَن كَانَ تَقِيّٗا
This is Paradise, which We give as an inheritance to those of Our servants who were fearing of Allah. [Maryam 19:63]
Paradise is a divine reward for those who possess taqwa. The verse in Surah Maryam serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of piety, righteousness, and obedience to Allah in attaining the ultimate and eternal success. It reassures the believers of the everlasting nature of their reward and motivates them to continue striving for excellence in their faith and actions.
Muslims are encouraged to strive for the highest level of Paradise by embodying the qualities and actions mentioned in the Quran and Hadith. This includes maintaining strong faith, performing good deeds, and cultivating a righteous character.
Surah Al-Mu’minoon, through its first eleven verses, outlines a comprehensive “recipe for success” that is rooted in faith, worship, morality, and social responsibility. By embodying these qualities, believers are assured not only of personal and communal well-being in this life but also of everlasting success in the hereafter. This divine guidance, supported by the tafseer of renowned scholars and insights from Islamic psychology, serves as a timeless reminder of the true essence of success in Islam.
Disclaimer: This is notes sharing from Qalby Movement Sisters-Only Tafseer Lecture by Sister Hajrah Mohamed Asif held on 13th July 2024, 10am - 12:30pm @ 3 Towers. The write-ups is from note-taking of the blog writer, and should there be any errors, mistakes or wrong understanding, please correct me as it is out of my ignorance and limited knowledge and may Allah forgives me and increase us in true knowledge, Allahu Ameen.
