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]
