What is Righteous Deed?
Righteous deeds are defined as actions that are in accordance with Islamic law and its stipulations, accompanied by pure intentions directed solely towards Allah (Glory be to Him). Such deeds are grounded in faith and correct beliefs. If any of these conditions is unmet, the deed is disregarded, and its performer will not receive reward. This concept is among the most significant outcomes of faith in Allah – the Exalted – and adherence to the teachings of His Messenger Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Why Does Islam Encourage Righteous Deeds?
Islam strongly encourages individuals to engage in righteous deeds due to their profound impact on both the individual and society. The Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet notably illustrate this point. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated: “When Allah intends good for His servant, He uses him; it was asked: ‘How does He use him, O Messenger of Allah?’ He replied: ‘He guides him to perform righteous deeds before death.’
What is the Impact of Righteous Deeds on Individuals in This Life?
Allah (Glory be to Him) grants numerous blessings in this life to those who engage in righteous deeds, including:
- Happiness and a good life, which is the ultimate goal pursued by all humanity, regardless of their diverse beliefs and backgrounds. Allah (Exalted) has promised a fulfilling life for all who perform righteous acts, as stated: “Whoever does a righteous deed, whether male or female, while he is a believer, We will surely grant him a good life and We will certainly reward them according to the best of what they used to do.”
- Relief from hardships and the fulfillment of needs. Those who worship Allah and draw closer to Him through righteous deeds will find that He alleviates their troubles and aids them in their affairs.
- Divine love and acceptance among people on Earth, placing the servant under the protection and care of Allah (Exalted), fostering love in the hearts of His servants towards them.
What is the Impact of Righteous Deeds on Individuals in the Hereafter?
The most critical aspect for an individual on the Day of Judgment is their righteous deeds, as these deeds determine the conclusion of their worldly actions and save them from the torment of Hell and the grave. They serve as grounds for entering Paradise, which is described as a place beyond human imagination, where believers will be in the company of prophets, the truthful, martyrs, and the righteous. Additionally, a consistent practice of worship in this world streamlines the accounting process and opens one’s way to mercy on the Day of Judgment. The ultimate reward for the inhabitants of Paradise is the sight of Allah’s noble face, as articulated: “And those who have believed and done righteous deeds – We will surely place them in lofty chambers of Paradise, beneath which rivers flow, wherein they abide eternally. Excellent is the reward of the doers.”
What is the Impact of Righteous Deeds on Society?
Righteous deeds provide immense benefits to the Muslim community, leading to the following:
- The establishment of a virtuous society devoid of hatred and jealousy, characterized by feelings of brotherhood and faith. In such a community, individuals maintain a purity of spirit, free from negative feelings towards one another. All personal rights are preserved, and individuals uphold each other’s dignity and freedoms, ensuring no one infringes upon the sanctity of others.
- The realization of social solidarity, where the wealthy support the needy, providing the necessary financial assistance for a dignified life for themselves and their families. This approach reduces the number of impoverished and needy individuals within the community.
- The accomplishment of the principle of maintaining the earth, which includes removing harmful materials from pathways and keeping the environment clean and free from waste.