By: Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi
Source: Beautiful Islam (with minor edits by MuslimVillage)
I wish to present several effective ways to develop love for Allah Most High. To attain this love a few important points need to be adhered to:
- Allocate a specific time to reflect upon the great blessings and bounties of Allah Most High. Along with this closely study one’s shortcomings and ponder: “If I was to have opposed a world leader in such a manner, what would have been my outcome? How disgraced would I have been in his eyes?” But Allah Most High, despite my rebellious actions has not put a stop to his shower of blessings upon me.
- Bring in to practice all Sharia commandments related to one’s external life, despite experiencing an absence of inclination. Experience shows that good deeds possess the quality of creating love for them. Though in the beginning stages there may be no apparent love, love will gradually be created. Like a magnet has no effect on iron lying at a distance, but no sooner it is brought close, the magnet automatically pulls it to belt. Deeds too have a “magnetic” effect.
- On a daily basis, set some time aside for zikr (remembrance of Allah Most High), though it maybe for a short while. This zikr should be made in seclusion with a bit of concentration.
- Join the company of the pious and friends of Allah Most High. Insha Allah through their company the love for the world will soon be reduced. In essence this is the way to recognize the friends of Allah Most High – i.e. in their company one finds a decrease in worldly love and an increase in the love for Allah Most High.
Allah willing, if the above mentioned four points are brought in to practice, I can say with assertion that within forty days the love for Allah Most High will definitely be created within the heart – further who am I to give assurance, rather it is upon the Qur’an and ahadeeth that I am basing my claim and not something fabricated by myself.
And success is only through Allah.
