” Purification of the Heart” The heart plays a central role in a believer’s journey. When full of sincerity, it brings peace and closeness to Allah. But when infested by diseases such as arrogance, envy, and heedlessness, it goes astray.
This is the third of a book of Imam Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah. Indeed, this wise imam offered an in-depth guide to understand how to know about these interior sicknesses, coupled with deep guidance on curing the same through effective treatment processes.
Who Is Imam Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah?
A Specialist Dedicated to Heart Sciences
Imam Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah was one of the greatest Islamic scholars, jurists, and spiritual guides of the 14th century. His writings are still consulted by Muslims worldwide for guidance in matters of faith, morality, and self-control.
He could diagnose spiritual sicknesses and offer remedies because of his deep knowledge of the Quran and Sunnah. He underlined that real success is purifying the heart and seeking the pleasure of Allah.
Among his many contributions, the work Illness & Cure stands out as a powerful manual for those striving to improve their spiritual well-being.
Understanding the Diseases of the Heart and Their Impact on Faith
Each heart is liable to diseases. These illnesses, though invisible, can destroy a person’s faith and character. Imam Ibn Qayyim identifies several spiritual diseases that affect believers.
heedlessness is one of the most harmful diseases. Because when a man forgets remembrance of Allahu Ta`ala, the heart of man becomes hardened as well. His worship life dries up with neglect, while humility vanishes and attachment grows to worldly cravings.
The third disease is the disease of jealousy. It causes a person’s inner peace and brings him low. Instead of being content about Allah’s good things, it makes his heart always desire from others.
Pride and arrogance also pollute the heart. A person, who feels that he is above others, cannot reach a level of humility and mercy. According to Imam Ibn Qayyim, pride makes a person blind, so he can’t see the right path or guidance.
Link Between Sins and Spiritual Diseases in a Believer’s Life
Sins corrupt the heart. Every sin leaves a black stain that if it is not removed by repentance, becomes greater and leads to spiritual blindness. According to Imam Ibn Qayyim, repeatedly disobeying God weakens the spirit and makes it hard to distinguish right from wrong.
The most destructive consequences of sin are losing the heart’s ability to be remorseful. When a person commits sinful actions repeatedly, their heart becomes calloused. They cannot feel repentance because they feel no guilt.
A believer must realize his mistakes and seek forgiveness. Continuous remembrance of Allah washes away the stains of sin and regenerates purity in the heart.
Role of Sincere Repentance in Cleansing the Heart From Spiritual Illnesses
Repentance is the healing factor for spiritual healing. The mercy of Allah is greater than any number of sins a person may commit. According to Imam Ibn Qayyim, “Sincere repentance erases sins from the past and strengthens faith”.
Real repentance means being remorseful and repenting by promising never to repeat the mistake. Just reciting “Astaghfirullah” is not sufficient. He or she has to really repent with all seriousness.
Allah frequently advises people to come unto Him sincerely. The softness, humility, and proximity to the Creator stay intact with such a heart, which keeps asking for forgiveness constantly.
The Power of Quranic Recitation and Dhikr in Purifying the Soul and Strengthening Faith
The Quran is a healing guide for the heart. Its verses bring light, wisdom, and protection from evil influences. Imam Ibn Qayyim says that frequent recitation purifies the soul and removes negative thoughts.
Dhikr, or remembrance of Allah, is also essential in the process of strengthening one’s faith. Simple words like SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, and La ilaha illallah bring a huge reward and melt the heart.
A believer who performs daily dhikr remains peaceful from inside. His heart does not face any distress, and he becomes satisfied with Allah’s remembrance.
How Sincerity and Tawakkul (Reliance on Allah) Help in Spiritual Healing
Sincerity is the ground of a heart that is pure. All that is done for Allah’s sake and not because of any acknowledgement from others is the basis for it. A heart filled with sincerity, says Imam Ibn Qayyim, is hypocrisy-free and void of false intent.
Spiritual healing also involves reliance on Allah or Tawakkul. Once a person totally trusts Allah, he will never fear failure and hardship. Instead, he realizes that everything that happens is under His decree and wisdom.
Thus, through sincere and trustful reliance on Allah, a faithful person strengthens his faith and withstands the situation of hardship.
The Dangers of Worldly Attachments and Their Effect on the Heart’s Purity
Excessive love for worldly possessions can corrupt the heart. Imam Ibn Qayyim warns that when a person prioritizes wealth, status, or power over their faith, they risk spiritual destruction.
The pursuit of material success often leads to greed, dishonesty, and neglect of religious duties. A heart attached to this world forgets the reality of the Hereafter.
Islam teaches balance. One can enjoy the bounty of this world and they should never form obstacles to worship and obedience. Peace only comes when faith is prioritized above temporary pleasures.
Steps towards Purification of the Heart
Purifying the heart is a continuous effort. Imam Ibn Qayyim outlines quite practical steps which will help achieve spiritual tranquility.
Sincere repentance. Frequent asking of Allah’s forgiveness to remove sin from the heart.
Recitation of Quran more frequently. The words of Allah bring light and healing to the soul.
Remember Allah very often. Dhikr helps to strengthen one’s faith and eliminate evil effects.
Do not be envious and arrogant. Be satisfied with what Allah has granted and stay humble.
Why Purification of the Heart Leads to Ultimate Success in This Life and the Hereafter
Ultimately, it is successful entry into Jannah. As Imam Ibn Qayyim reminds the believer, only with a pure heart will one gain eternal bliss. All efforts toward purifying one’s soul within this world leads to unimaginable rewards in the Hereafter.
Conclusion: Timeless Wisdom by Imam Ibn Qayyim on Spiritual Healing
Imam Ibn Qayyim’s Purification of the Heart and Soul (Illness & Cure) is one of the most insightful books on spirituality. Its timeless wisdom helps believers recognize and treat the diseases that affect their hearts.
