THE VOICE

1. Purifying Intentions

We should examine our motives, purify our intentions and advise sincerely for the sake of Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā), without seeking ostentation, fame, worldly gain or showing superiority. Our intentions, can act as the catalyst in determining the final outcome of our actions. The Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) said: “Actions are but by intentions and each person will have but that which he intended.” Therefore, before we embark on a journey to advise or correct a fault, we must simply ask ourselves whether our intentions are sincerely pure with a desire to help someone or are they to punish and belittle someone by exposing their faults. This will give us an opportunity to continue if we feel we are sincere or pause and take a moment to purify our intentions because our current psyche might lead us to condemn the person we are seeking to advise.