The Concept of Barakah (3)

Ashoka then said, "In a quiet town, amid the dawn’s gentle light, lived Ibrahim, a craftsman known for his skill but humble in his means. His days were filled with the meticulous work of handicrafts, shaping wood into beautiful pieces. Yet, despite his modest earnings, he seemed to always have enough, and his heart was light, his home warm. There was something about Ibrahim, a sense of peace, a sense of barakah—a blessing that seemed to permeate every part of his life.

As he prepared for work one morning, a young man, Nasir, approached him, eyes weary, seeking advice. "How is it, Uncle Ibrahim, that you always seem content? Your earnings are small, yet you and your family always seem to have enough. I, too, work hard, but the days slip through my fingers like sand. I don’t understand how you do it."

Ibrahim, with a kind smile, invited Nasir to sit. "Come," he said, "let me share with you the secret of barakah."

Nasir leaned in as Ibrahim spoke, "Barakah is a blessing from Allah that touches not just what we have, but how we experience it. The Prophet(ﷺ) taught us that barakah is more than wealth; it is the richness in our time, our efforts, and our hearts. A single coin with barakah can do more good than piles of gold without it."

Nasir’s face softened with curiosity as Ibrahim continued, "You see, I begin each day in prayer, at dawn. The Prophet (ﷺ) himself prayed, ‘O Allah, bless my nation in their early mornings.’ Rising early fills my day with barakah because the hours feel expanded, and my work is fruitful. But it’s not just about rising early; it’s about rising with purpose, giving thanks, and starting with Allah’s name in mind."

"I get up early too," Nasir interjected, "but it feels like there are never enough hours."

"That’s because barakah is not merely in action; it’s also in intention," Ibrahim said with a knowing nod. He looked around his small workshop and motioned toward his tools. "Everything here has a purpose. Imam al-Ghazali teaches us that ‘Knowledge without action is madness and action without knowledge is void.’ To fill our actions with barakah, we must be sincere and knowledgeable. I approach my work with the knowledge of its value—not just to earn but to serve, to create something useful for others. That sincerity brings barakah, turning a simple piece of wood into something meaningful."

Nasir looked at the tools, now seeing them through Ibrahim’s eyes. "I see, so it’s the intention, the purpose that brings blessing."

Ibrahim nodded. "Exactly. The heart, as Imam al-Ghazali says, is like a fortress, and we must guard its gates. If we let greed or impatience slip in, barakah slips out. Desires make us slaves, but patience, Nasir, it makes us kings. My father taught me that patience invites barakah, even when we don’t see immediate rewards."

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Nasir’s brow furrowed, reflecting. "But isn’t patience hard? How can one truly be patient?"

"Ah, that is the test," Ibrahim replied. "To get what you love, you must first be patient with what you hate. That’s why I strive to be patient with my earnings, to find joy in what I have rather than fixate on what I lack. This patience, this trust in Allah, is what the scholars call tawakkul. I do my best, but leave the outcome in His hands, and barakah flows in because I am not struggling to control what is beyond me."

Nasir absorbed this wisdom, and his heart felt a spark of understanding. Ibrahim continued, "Another essential part of barakah is charity. The Prophet (ﷺ) taught us that giving never decreases wealth. When we give from our small means, Allah blesses the remainder, stretching it in ways unseen. You see, Nasir, barakah in wealth isn’t always more coins, but rather the ability to meet our needs, to find joy, to give and to have enough."

With a smile, Nasir asked, "But how do I make sure I’m sincere, Uncle?"

Ibrahim’s gaze softened. "Be sincere in all you do. Only what is done for Allah will last. If you work just for yourself, your actions are limited by you. But if you work for Allah, barakah fills your efforts. This sincerity turns routine into worship, and life itself becomes a journey toward Allah.

When we work solely for ourselves or our benefit, our efforts and outcomes tend to be limited by our human capacity. Our time, energy, and resources are finite, so the results are often proportional to what we can achieve. This distinction speaks to the difference between a self-centred approach and a purpose-driven approach that connects one's efforts to a higher cause.

When we work only for ourselves, our goals are often finite, shaped by our desires, ambitions, and limitations. For example, we might work to earn a certain amount of money, gain status, or achieve recognition. These goals can be achieved, but they are confined to the personal level and limited by our abilities, circumstances, and resources. The satisfaction derived from achieving these goals often feels short-lived and may lead to a continuous search for more.

Working solely for oneself can lead to a sense of isolation in effort. We may feel solely responsible for the outcome, which can create stress and anxiety, especially when things don’t go as planned. This approach often ignores the broader, interconnected nature of our lives and the universe, where many factors (beyond our control) contribute to our success or failure.

Even when we achieve what we set out to, personal success might still leave a feeling of emptiness. Achieving a goal solely for personal benefit can feel transient, as human desires constantly evolve and grow. This is why many people, despite achieving significant worldly success, may still feel unfulfilled—they find themselves pursuing a sense of satisfaction that always seems just out of reach.

When our work is only for ourselves, its impact typically remains small. We may only benefit ourselves or a limited circle of people. This can create a life that feels insular, where our actions don’t extend beyond a personal scope or serve a purpose larger than our immediate interests. The effort is unlikely to be sustained after our involvement ends, and it may not have a lasting effect on others or in the broader community.

A purely self-focused approach often lacks a sense of greater meaning, which is essential for many to feel connected to something beyond themselves. This is because, when the focus remains on "me," the impact of each action is viewed solely through the lens of personal benefit, rather than a broader vision that could bring deeper purpose and fulfilment.

When one works with the intention to serve Allah, the perspective shifts from a self-centred view to a purpose-centered view. Actions are no longer confined to personal gain but are undertaken as part of a broader mission that aligns with a divine purpose. Islam teaches that actions done for Allah’s sake are inherently more fulfilling, as they connect the individual to a larger, infinite purpose that transcends worldly limitations.

"Actions done for Allah’s sake" refer to any deeds performed with the sincere intention of pleasing Allah and fulfilling His commands, rather than for personal gain, recognition, or worldly benefits. In Islam, intention (niyyah) is crucial, as it transforms even ordinary acts into acts of worship if they are done to seek Allah’s pleasure. The key to an action being "for Allah’s sake" is that the primary intention behind it is to seek Allah’s pleasure. This involves aligning one’s motives with what Allah has commanded or encouraged, rather than with purely worldly gains or recognition from others. These actions should also align with what is encouraged in Islam, including acts of worship, acts of kindness, and moral behaviour. While worldly benefits might come from these actions, the believer's ultimate motivation remains spiritual, focusing on earning Allah's blessings and rewards.

Actions done sincerely for Allah’s sake are often sustained with greater commitment because the motivation behind them goes beyond immediate benefits or temporary praise. This commitment shows a dedication to upholding principles and values, even when it’s challenging or when no one is watching. For example, Teaching one’s children values, morals, and knowledge of Islam to guide them toward righteousness for Allah’s sake, not for personal pride. This includes patience and dedication, seeing parenting as a form of worship.

Conducting business honestly, even when one might profit more by being dishonest because one values Allah’s command to be truthful and just. Such integrity, practised to please Allah, becomes a source of barakah (blessing) in one’s livelihood.

If entrusted with a responsibility, such as a managerial position or a task, a Muslim strives to be just and diligent in fulfilling it, aiming to honour the trust placed in them by Allah, who values honesty.

Simple actions like conserving water, recycling, and reducing waste can be done to be a responsible steward of the Earth, as Allah has entrusted humans with this role. Islam encourages care for creation, so these acts become worship when intended to preserve Allah’s creation.

In essence, working solely for oneself can lead to a life confined by one's limitations, while working for Allah opens the door to possibilities and fulfilment that transcend personal boundaries. Actions become not just about the individual but part of a collective, divinely-inspired mission that has the potential to bring far-reaching and enduring effects. It transforms work from merely functional to spiritually fulfilling."

The words sank deep into Nasir’s heart as he watched Ibrahim, a man who truly embodied the blessings of barakah. Ibrahim continued, "Our hearts, Nasir, are like mirrors. They reflect whatever they face. If our hearts are purified of greed, envy, and impatience, they reflect divine light. If you desire knowledge of Allah, purify your heart from the illusions of the world.’ A purified heart perceives barakah, sees beauty in simplicity, and joy in what others overlook."

Nasir felt a change within him as he listened to Ibrahim’s words, inspired him to live with a renewed sense of purpose. He realized that barakah was more than just wealth or success; it was a way of life that infused each moment with meaning and abundance.

In the days that followed, Nasir took Ibrahim’s lessons to heart. He began each day in prayer, giving thanks for his blessings, seeking barakah in his work and patience in his struggles. Slowly, he found that his earnings seemed to stretch further, his work felt lighter, and his days seemed fuller.

One evening, he returned to visit Ibrahim, joy evident in his face. "Uncle, I feel the barakah you spoke of. My life hasn’t changed in wealth or ease, but it feels richer, more meaningful."

Ibrahim placed a hand on Nasir’s shoulder. "Then you understand, my dear nephew. Barakah is not about how much we have but about how we see, live, and use what we have. It is a gift from Allah, granted to those who seek it with sincerity, patience, and gratitude."

Nasir nodded, the words etched into his heart. And as he walked home under the stars, he felt truly blessed, for he had finally understood the essence of barakah—a divine gift, a life imbued with blessings, and a heart at peace, connected to Allah in every breath," pungkas Asoka.

As dawn painted the sky with hues of gold and pink, the plants parted ways, their hearts filled with a newfound understanding. They had learned that 'Barakah' was not a destination to be reached, but a journey to be embraced, a path illuminated by gratitude, kindness, and trust.

And so, they continued to live in their secret garden, their lives a testament to the power of 'Barakah', a living embodiment of the beauty and grace that can be found in even the smallest of things.

[Bagian 1]

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The Concept of Barakah (2)

As the night deepened, the plants continued their conversation, their voices weaving a tapestry of wisdom and inspiration. They spoke of the importance of patience, perseverance, and trust in the divine plan. They also spoke of 'Barakah', the spark within us waiting to be ignited.
The rose then told a story, "A young Muslimah, Aisha, embarking on her first Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. A sense of awe washes over her as she traverses the sacred sites. The Kaaba, the House of Allah, stands majestically, a symbol of divine unity. She touches its black cloth, the Kiswah, feeling a profound connection. In this sacred space, she experiences a palpable sense of Barakah, a divine presence that envelops her.

Aisha recalls the words of her grandfather, who often spoke of the Barakah associated with our beloved Prophet (ﷺ). Her grandfather recounted stories of the Companions (رضي الله عنهم), their lives transformed by the divine blessings that accompanied the Prophet (ﷺ). Aisha feels a deep longing to emulate their faith and seek the Barakah of the Prophet (ﷺ). Barakah, a term deeply rooted in Islamic theology, signifies a divine blessing or favour bestowed upon individuals, places, or objects. It’s a concept that transcends mere materiality, embodying a spiritual connection to the divine.

As Aisha continues her journey, she encounters countless pilgrims from diverse backgrounds. She witnesses their shared experiences of joy, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. It becomes evident that Barakah is not confined to the sacred sites alone. It can be found in the simple acts of devotion, fellow believers' camaraderie, and the natural world's beauty.

Aisha reflects on the teachings of Imam al-Ghazali, a prominent Sunni scholar. In his book, "Ihya Ulum al-Din" (The Revival of the Religious Sciences), al-Ghazali discusses the importance of seeking Barakah in all aspects of life. He emphasizes the role of intention, sincerity, and reliance on Allah in attracting divine blessings. Al-Ghazali, in his works, places significant emphasis on intention (niyyah), sincerity (ikhlas), and reliance on Allah (tawakkul) as core principles for attracting divine blessings and ensuring spiritual success.

Al-Ghazali asserts that the purity of intention is essential for any deed to be accepted by Allah and for it to bring blessings. He emphasizes that actions without a clear, righteous intention are empty in value. In Ihya Ulum al-Din, he explains that a person should examine their motives, seeking to align their intention solely with Allah’s pleasure rather than any worldly gain or recognition. This focus on intention ensures that even routine activities, like work or study, become acts of worship if done for Allah’s sake, thus attracting barakah (blessings).

For Al-Ghazali, sincerity is the cornerstone of a true connection with Allah and the foundation upon which all actions must rest. Sincerity means performing deeds purely for Allah, without seeking admiration, reward, or any hidden worldly benefit. Al-Ghazali warns against the subtle forms of insincerity, such as seeking approval from others, which he calls "hidden shirk." He argues that only through true sincerity can a person attract divine blessings because Allah accepts deeds done with a clean heart and pure devotion.

Tawakkul, or reliance on Allah, is another essential component in Al-Ghazali’s approach to attracting blessings. In Al-Ghazali’s view, true reliance means trusting that Allah alone controls all outcomes and that one's efforts are merely a means. He teaches that a believer should act with trust in Allah, knowing that, ultimately, success and blessings come from Him alone. This reliance fosters a sense of peace and assurance, reducing anxiety over worldly matters and inviting barakah, as Allah loves those who depend on Him fully.

Al-Ghazali ties these three elements—intention, sincerity, and reliance on Allah—together as a powerful formula for receiving Allah’s favour. When a person acts with pure intention, is free of worldly desires, perform their deeds with sincerity, and relies completely on Allah for the outcome, they align themselves spiritually with divine will. This alignment attracts Allah’s blessings and transforms even small actions into sources of immense reward and benefit.

In his commentary on Imam Nawawi’s Forty Hadith, Jami’ al-Ulum wal-Hikam, Ibn Rajab emphasizes that sound intention is vital for the validity and reward of any act. He explains that intention transforms mundane actions into acts of worship if they are done for Allah’s pleasure. He stresses that intentions should be constantly examined to ensure they align with seeking Allah's favour, as this is the key to success in both worlds.

In his works, including his famous commentary on Sahih Muslim, al-Nawawi reiterates that every action is judged by its intention, referring to the famous hadith, “Actions are by intentions” (Innamal a’maal bin niyyah). He teaches that having the correct intention not only brings barakah to actions but also preserves one from deviations, as a person is consciously aware of why they do what they do.

Ibn Taymiyyah emphasizes sincerity as the foundation of all worship, asserting that without ikhlas, no act can draw a person closer to Allah. In Majmu’ al-Fatawa, he explains that sincerity should drive believers to seek only Allah's pleasure, for even hidden motives like reputation or pride corrupt worship. Ibn Taymiyyah highlights that true ikhlas invites Allah’s blessings because it aligns a believer’s heart solely with Him.

In Madarij as-Salikin, Ibn Qayyim dedicates a section to tawakkul, where he describes it as a balance between taking action and trusting in Allah’s will. He stresses that true reliance involves recognizing Allah’s power while still performing one’s duties. Ibn Qayyim teaches that such balanced reliance brings divine assistance and blessings because it reflects the believer’s humility and trust in Allah alone.

Known for his life of perseverance and steadfast faith, Imam Ahmad often highlighted tawakkul in his teachings. He taught that while it is necessary to make efforts, the heart should remain focused on Allah alone as the provider. Imam Ahmad’s advice on tawakkul is that it not only brings peace but also opens doors to blessings, as one learns to see every outcome as part of Allah’s wisdom and mercy.

These scholars agree that intention, sincerity, and reliance on Allah create a powerful spiritual foundation. When integrated, these principles cleanse the heart of worldly distractions, direct one’s focus toward Allah, and encourage a balanced approach to both spiritual and worldly efforts. They explain that this combination attracts divine blessings and paves the way for spiritual success, as it aligns a believer’s actions with the divine will and purifies the soul in ways that resonate with Allah's guidance.

The Qur'an is replete with references to Barakah. In Surah al-Baqarah (The Cow), verse 121, God promises blessings to those who believe and do righteous deeds. In Surah al-A'raf (The Heights), verse 157, God describes the Prophet (ﷺ) as a mercy to all creation, a source of Barakah for humanity.

Barakah appears in various forms in a believer’s life. Many Hadiths emphasize beginning actions with “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah) to bring barakah into them. This practice reflects the mindset that blessings are sought by recognizing Allah as the source of all goodness.

The Prophet (ﷺ) prayed for blessings in the early mornings for his community. Working in the early part of the day is encouraged to gain barakah, as the time is believed to be imbued with blessings that allow for greater productivity.

With barakah, limited resources are sufficient or even plentiful. For instance, a family may experience contentment and fulfilment from a modest income. This principle is reflected in the Hadith where the Prophet mentioned that blessings in one’s sustenance bring satisfaction and fulfillment beyond material wealth.

Barakah can make one’s deeds more impactful. Al-Ghazali states that barakah brings spiritual depth to actions, turning them into forms of worship and service to Allah, even if they seem ordinary. This idea is expanded when he discusses how work done with pure intentions becomes a means of connecting with the Divine.

A heart filled with barakah enjoys a sense of tranquillity and satisfaction. Imam Al-Ghazali explains that 'The heart is like a mirror,' reflecting what it is focused on. By clearing the heart of distractions and worldly concerns, one opens it to receiving divine blessings.

Through barakah, time feels abundant. Tasks are completed efficiently, and moments are infused with greater productivity. This effect is attributed to early mornings, a time blessed with productivity as indicated in Hadiths and emphasized in Islamic tradition.

In modern works, such as Mohammad Faris's The Barakah Effect: More with Less (2018), barakah is further explored in the context of productivity and purpose. Faris argues that true productivity is not in doing more but in focusing on meaningful actions with divine purpose. He emphasizes that sincerity, early morning routines, and alignment with one’s spiritual goals are essential for experiencing barakah. His work reflects on classical teachings, showing how barakah can manifest in modern life through intentional actions and a heart connected to Allah.

Mohammad Faris defines barakah as a divine blessing that allows a person to achieve more with less effort, time, and resources. He describes barakah not simply as an increase in quantity but as a form of spiritual enrichment that enhances the quality of one's life and efforts.

Barakah is a gift from Allah, and it cannot be quantified or fully explained by material means. It often manifests in ways that defy ordinary calculations, like having more productivity in limited time, wealth that stretches far beyond what seems possible, or achieving great results with minimal effort.

Faris places significant focus on time management through an Islamic lens. He suggests that barakah allows individuals to achieve more in their time by focusing on meaningful, purpose-driven tasks rather than being overly busy without results. He highlights the importance of balance between spiritual and worldly responsibilities. True barakah comes when individuals live in alignment with their faith, giving due attention to their spiritual, physical, and emotional well-being. Faris also touches on the concept of barakah within family and community life. When people contribute to the well-being of others and nurture relationships, Allah places barakah in their collective efforts.

Barakah is seen as an essential element for leading a fulfilled, productive, and meaningful life, where less reliance is placed on material abundance and more focus is given to spiritual abundance and alignment with Islamic principles. Barakah cannot be simply measured or quantified; rather, it is experienced in subtle but powerful ways, like feeling more at peace, achieving goals more effectively, or finding that time stretches to accommodate all tasks.

Faris outlines the "Barakah Culture" framework, which is a holistic approach to living a balanced, purposeful, and meaningful life. The framework has three main components: mindset, values and action.

First, approach life with a growth mindset that values intention (niyyah), gratitude, and trust in Allah (tawakkul). Faris argues that these attributes allow one to maintain focus on what truly matters and remain resilient through life’s challenges. Second, adopting values that align with Islamic teachings and emphasizing simplicity, contentment, and ethical behaviour. By prioritizing values over outcomes, Faris suggests that people can achieve greater barakah and, consequently, a more fulfilling life. Encouraging actions that invite barakah, such as consistent acts of worship, self-discipline, service to others, and avoiding wastefulness. Faris emphasizes purposeful actions aligned with one’s intentions and values.

Faris provides practical steps for cultivating barakah in several critical areas. He suggests beginning the day early, managing time with intentional breaks, and focusing on high-impact activities. He highlights the Prophetic encouragement to work in the early hours, which is considered blessed.

Rather than simply amassing wealth, Faris promotes ethical earning, mindful spending, and giving in charity. He explains that wealth gained ethically and spent wisely brings barakah and often stretches further than wealth earned through selfish or questionable means.

Barakah in health is achieved through self-care, a balanced lifestyle, and gratitude for physical well-being. Faris emphasizes the importance of seeing health as a trust from Allah, caring for it through moderate exercise, proper diet, and avoiding harmful habits.

Faris emphasizes several daily practices that attract barakah. He explains that intentions should be aligned with pleasing Allah and serving others, making every action a potential source of barakah. Regularly expressing gratitude, both in prayer and in one’s daily interactions, invites blessings and amplifies the blessings already present. By giving in charity, Faris argues that one’s wealth is purified and expanded in ways that bring unexpected barakah and rewards.

Faris provides strategies for achieving productivity with a sense of purpose. He stresses that working with barakah involves prioritizing health and avoiding the drive for relentless productivity. Instead, Faris promotes focused work, breaks, and flexibility. Setting goals that are meaningful and aligned with one’s values, rather than chasing superficial metrics of success, leads to greater fulfillment and opens avenues for barakah in one’s work.

Faris provides strategies for achieving productivity with a sense of purpose. He stresses that working with barakah involves prioritizing health and avoiding the drive for relentless productivity. Instead, Faris promotes focused work, breaks, and flexibility. Setting goals that are meaningful and aligned with one’s values, rather than chasing superficial metrics of success, leads to greater fulfillment and opens avenues for barakah in one’s work. Faris argues that contributing to the well-being of others, including family, community, and society, brings barakah because it aligns with a purpose greater than oneself.

Faris presents barakah as a life philosophy, one that touches every aspect of living and leadership. By focusing on alignment between one’s inner intentions, actions, and the will of Allah, he encourages us to lead lives that prioritize quality, spirituality, and service over materialism and competition.

Faris emphasizes the role of relationships in cultivating barakah. He highlights the importance of family ties, ethical relationships, and community support. Barakah is attracted when individuals prioritize the needs of others, whether it’s spending quality time with family, supporting friends, or volunteering in the community.

Aisha's pilgrimage culminates in the joyous celebration of Eid al-Adha. As she joins the communal prayers and festivities, she feels a deep sense of unity with her fellow Muslims. She realizes that Barakah is not only an individual experience but also a collective one. By sharing their faith and their blessings, Muslims strengthen their community and contribute to the spread of divine grace.

As Aisha returns home, she carries with her a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the concept of Barakah. She understands that it is not merely a blessing to be sought but a way of life, a reflection of one's faith and devotion to Allah."

[Part 3]
[Part 1]

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