“This is the Book, wherein there is no doubt, a guidance for the Muttaqin.”
— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2)
What Is Taqwa?
One of the most significant principles in Islam is taqwa (تقوى). It entails always keeping Allah in mind and acting, speaking, and thinking with the understanding that He is watching all we do. Taqwa is more than just "piety" or "God-consciousness," as it is frequently interpreted. It involves living your life, both in public and privately, with awareness of Allah.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ explained it in a simple way:
Verily Allah does not look to your bodies nor to your faces but He looks to your hearts," and he pointed towards the heart with his fingers.
— Sahih Muslim (2564)
Why Is Taqwa Important in Islam?
Taqwa is mentioned over 250 times in the Quran. Allah constantly reminds believers to have taqwa as it:
- Brings the love of Allah
- Protects you from sin
- Brings barakah and ease in life
- Helps you succeed in the hereafter
- Improves your character
“Verily, the most honorable of you with Allah is that (believer) who has At-Taqwa.”
— Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13)
How to Live with Taqwa
Here are simple, practical ways to bring taqwa into your daily life:
1. Be Mindful of Your Intentions
Prior to taking any activity, ask yourself if it pleases Allah.
Taqwa starts in the heart — your niyyah (intention) sets the tone for your deeds.
2. Pray on Time
Salah is the daily reminder that we are accountable. Each prayer is a moment to reset and realign your heart.
3. Remember Allah Often (Dhikr)
Say SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaha illAllah, and Allahu Akbar throughout your day. This helps keep your thoughts pure and your heart close to Allah.
4. Control Your Tongue
Speak only what is good, stay away from gossip, lying, or backbiting — even in small jokes
"Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, should speak what is good or keep silent."
— Sahih al-Bukhari (Hadith 6136)
5. Make Choices You’d Make if Allah Were Watching — Because He Is
Whether online, alone, or with others — let your actions reflect your awareness of Allah.
Final Reflection
Being perfect is not the goal of taqwa. The goal is to try, fail, and rise again, constantly keeping Allah in mind.
Set an example for your kids by making simple, daily decisions. Talk to each other with kindness, pray frequently, and keep in mind that Allah sees what's in our hearts and that He likes those who make an effort to please Him.