Purity of Heart: The Paradise of This Life and the Delight of Souls
My friend, purity of heart is the lost paradise in this worldly life, and the immediate bliss that Allah bestows upon those with pure hearts.
The splendor of this noble virtue is vividly illustrated in what Imam Ibn al-Qayyim relates in his book Madarij al-Salikin; he describes the true believer as one who grieves over the misstep of his brother as though he himself were the one who stumbled. Gloating finds no pathway into his heart—a clear proof of the tenderness of his heart and the sincerity of his devotion to Allah.
Indeed, humanity and the bond of faith demand that we share in the pain of others. For he who is not saddened by transgressions, and whose heart is not stirred with compassion by the afflictions of others, how can he be counted among the ranks of humanity?
Purify your heart from malice and envy, and wish goodness for all people just as you desire it for yourself. Know with certainty that when Allah gives something to someone, He gives it out of His own grace and generosity, not from your pocket nor from your domain.
Rejoice in the successes of others with a contented heart, and praise their virtues with a truthful tongue. Such humility and acknowledgment of merit are among the traits of the great Prophets. Do you not see how the Prophet of Allah, Moses (peace be upon him), said with all selflessness and nobility: “And my brother Aaron is more eloquent than me in speech”?
Conversely, beware of envy and jealousy, for they are traits of Iblis, who was banished from Allah’s mercy when he grew arrogant and boasted: “He said, ‘I am better than him.’”
Therefore, make your heart an oasis of peace, carrying within it nothing but love and goodwill for all—that you may find happiness in this world and attain the pleasure of Allah in the Hereafter.
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