In the Name of Allāh.
Indeed, Al-Umūru bi Maqāsidihā (الأُمُورُ بِمَقَاصِدِهَا), which translates to “Actions are judged by the aims [i.e., intentions] behind them,” stands as one of the fundamental maxims of Islāmic Jurisprudence (al-Qawā’id al-Fiqhiyyah). This principle is derived from a well-known Ḥadīth narrated by ‘Umar Ibn Al-Khaṭṭāb (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhu) and mentioned by Imām An-Nawawī (Raḥimahullāh) as the first Ḥadīth in his compilation, Al-Arba’ūn (i.e., ‘The Forty Ḥadīth’).
Gladly, this Ḥadīth is widely known in this Ummah. However, some Muslims misinterpret it to justify their negligence or to legitimize their misdeeds. In reality, the Ḥadīth illustrates the necessary balance between one’s internal intentions and external actions. It’s indeed surprising for a Muslim who engages in Bid’ah (innovations in the Religion of Allāh) to claim that his intention (for such heretical actions) is what matters, despite the negativity of their deeds.
It’s crucial to always ensure that the intentions behind our actions remain sincere. Beloved brethren! Let’s recognize that both intention and action hold significance in the judgment we face. The Messenger of Allāh (ﷺ) stated: “Verily, Allāh does not consider your appearance or your wealth in (appraising you), but He considers your hearts (i.e., the intention that resides in it) and your deeds (i.e., actions).” [Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2564]
Indeed, individuals will be judged according to their intentions and actions. Islām is indeed a practical religion that emphasizes both Justice and Wisdom. Therefore, one must strive to perform the right actions while purifying their intentions to earn a worthy reward.
I beseech Allāh to purify our hearts and make us only perform beneficial deeds. Aameen
Picture Credit: Iacob Bogdan-Forin
