Getting closer to Allah, etc.

1-4-2002 | IslamWeb

Question:

How can I increase the feelings of love towards Allah and His Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam)?

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Answer:

Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the World; and may His blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon all his Family and Companions.

1) Ibn Qayyim al-Jaoziyah mentioned in his book 'Madarij al-Salikeen' ten points that produce Allah's Love in a person's heart. Also, such points and causes result in Allah's Love for him/her. We briefly state these points and causes as follows:
A) To read, understand and consider the Qur'an carefully.
B) To keep on coming closer to Allah by performing Nawafil (optional good deeds). Such an action will help one to be lifted to the rank of being Allah's beloved after one loves His Lord.
C) To mention Allah at all states and in all occasions. The more you mention Allah, the more beloved you will be.
D) To prefer what Allah likes to what one likes as long as one's liking is not a form of whim and desire.
E) To think about Allah's Names and Attributes, since whoever becomes aware of His Names and Attributes will certainly love Him.
F) To think of Allah's innumerable blessings and favors, hidden and apparent.
G) To show subordination, submission and surrender to Allah, The Great and Almighty.
H) To perform optional prayers at midnight and read Qur'an and to end such actions with repentance and seeking forgiveness.
I) To associate with the righteous and religious and to get benefit from their good words.
J) To avoid every misdeed and sin that may come between a slave and His Lord, Allah.
As for acquiring the Messenger's Love (Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam), know that there are two matters that bring forth such a love:
A) To consider carefully the Qur'anic verses that describe and praise the Prophet's (Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam) character such as: {And verily, you (O Muhammad SAW) are on an exalted standard of character.} [68:4].
B) To read and regard the Prophet's (Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam) biography, good features and stories attentively.
Allah knows best.