Tazkiyah, or the cleansing of the heart, is the path of spiritual purification, a sanctifying or making free from sin all that one says and does.
Allah SWT says in the Holy Qur’an:
“God did confer a great favor on the believers when He sent among them an apostle from among themselves, rehearsing unto them the signs of God, sanctifying them, and instructing them in scripture and wisdom, while, before that they had been in manifest error”
(Qur’an 3:164).
Tazkiyah requires the cultivating of discipline physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Eating what is wholesome and healthy, exercising the body, knowing and guiding one’s inner chatter, speaking only what is virtuous, acting with integrity — all of these, and more, are so important for a Muslim to attain to spiritual health. Purification of the soul in all its aspects brings a Muslim closer to Allah SWT.
There are several practical steps that a Muslim can take according to the Qur’an and the teachings of Rasulullah SAW to seek purification of the self:
Focus on the cornerstone of purifying and improving the self through ibadah, worship of the one and only God, by deepening your basic understanding of the five pillars of Islam and how they are applied. Establish prayer as ordained by Allah SWT; practice the remembrance of Allah to increase awareness of Him throughout the day in order to come closer to Him and, in turn, decrease the likelihood of committing any act that He would be displeased with.
Improve your moral standards by cultivating integrity, conscientiousness, and right action.
Smile in the face of others and be kind and positive when interacting with them. Be merciful and forgiving when dealing with your fellow brothers and sisters.
Be disciplined and organized in the management of your time so that you are more productive throughout the day.
Lend a helping hand to those in need. Rasulullah SAW said:
“None of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself.”
Strive to increase your knowledge whether it be religious or academic knowledge. Endeavor to be an informed and active citizen
Maintain good company and friends who will influence you in a positive manner. Rasulullah SAW said:
“A person is likely to follow the faith of his friend, so look to whom you befriend.”
Mutafaqun Alaih
