Happiness is attained by three things: being patient when tested, being thankful when receiving a blessing, and being repentant upon sinning.
Ibn Qayyim Al-JawziyyaRead
The heart becomes sick, as the body becomes sick, and its remedy is al-Tawbah (repentance) and protection [from transgression]. It becomes rusty as a mirror becomes rusty, and its clarity is obtained by remembrance. It becomes naked as the body becomes naked, and its beautification is al-Taqwa. It becomes hungry and thirsty as the body becomes hungry, and its food and drink are knowledge, love, dependence, repentance and servitude.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the need for spiritual nourishment and purification through repentance and remembrance.
In this quote, Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyya draws a strong analogy between the physical and spiritual aspects of human existence. Just as the body requires care and sustenance to remain healthy, the heart and soul also need attention through repentance, remembrance, and knowledge. The heart can become ill or rusty, emphasizing the need for spiritual practices such as al-Tawbah and al-Taqwa to restore its clarity and beauty, thus cultivating a deeper connection with one's faith and purpose.
Themes
RepentanceSpiritualityKnowledgeRemembranceTaqwaHeart
In practice
Example use cases
In a sermon about personal growth, one might say, 'As Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyya reminds us, our hearts need daily nourishment just like our bodies.'
More from Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyya
All quotes →The keys to the life of the heart lie in reflecting upon the Quran, being humble before Allah in secret, and leaving sins.
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As long as you are performing prayer, you are knocking at the door of Allah, and whoever is knocking at the door of Allah, Allah will open it for him.
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Satan rejoiced when Adam (peace be upon him) came out of Paradise, but he did not know that when a diver sinks into the sea, he collects pearls and then rises again.
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One of the most beneficial of remedies is persisting in du’a.
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Whoever desires to purify his heart, then let him prefer Allah to his desires
Ibn Qayyim Al-JawziyyaRead
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