What Are the Most Beloved Actions to Allah?
According to Aisha, the Mother of the Believers (may Allah be pleased with her), she reported that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was asked: “Which deeds are most beloved to Allah?” He responded, “The most beloved deeds are those that are consistent, even if they are few.” He added: “Engage in the actions that you are able to perform.”
When the Prophet (peace be upon him) was inquired about the deeds most cherished by Allah, he emphasized that the best actions are those sustained over time. Consistency in one’s deeds enhances the likelihood of attaining closeness to Allah throughout one’s life. The Prophet cautioned against overburdening oneself with worship, which could lead to exhaustion and a lack of motivation. Instead, he encouraged believers to undertake what they can manage without excessive strain.
Tell Me of a Deed That Will Admit Me to Paradise
Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that a man asked the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him), “O Messenger of Allah, inform me of an action that will admit me to Paradise.” The crowd around him was intrigued by his question. The Prophet (peace be upon him) replied: “Worship Allah without associating anything with Him, establish prayer, give zakat, and maintain family ties…” The Prophet’s astonishment stemmed from the fact that the man was inquiring about fundamental aspects of faith. Thus, the Prophet affirmed that the path to Paradise lies in the sincere worship of Allah, performing prayers, giving zakat, and fostering family relationships.
Will I Enter Paradise?
Jabir bin Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that a man asked the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him): “If I perform the obligatory prayers, fast during Ramadan, make lawful the halal, and prohibit the haram, but do not add anything beyond that, will I enter Paradise?” The Prophet replied: “Yes…” This narration illustrates the conditions for entering Paradise, highlighting God’s promise, as He does not go back on His word. The assurance of Paradise is a great hope for those who believe in and act upon God’s commands, fulfilling their obligations with sincerity and faith.
Gabriel Has Come to Teach You Your Religion
In a narration by the companion Umar ibn Al-Khattab, a man approached the Prophet (peace be upon him) with numerous questions, and the Prophet answered each one. The companions were astonished by the unusual nature of the inquiries until the Prophet clarified that this was Gabriel (peace be upon him), who had come to teach them their religion. The series of questions and answers included:
- “O Muhammad, inform me about Islam.” The Prophet (peace be upon him) replied: “Islam is to testify that there is no deity but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, to establish prayer, give zakat, fast during Ramadan, and perform Hajj if you are able to do so.”
- “Now, tell me about faith.” The Prophet answered: “Faith is to believe in Allah, His Angels, His Books, His Messengers, the Last Day, and to believe in divine preordainment, both the good and the bad.”
- “Now, tell me about excellence in worship.” The Prophet (peace be upon him) replied: “To worship Allah as if you see Him; and if you do not see Him, know that He sees you.”
- “Now, tell me about the Hour.” The Prophet said: “The one being questioned knows no more than the questioner.”
- “Now, tell me its signs.” He answered: “When a female servant gives birth to her master, and you see the barefoot, unclothed, and destitute shepherds competing in building.”