Actions of the Heart | Tawakkul (Reliance)
Reliance (al-Tawakkul) in Allāh is a lofty station having a tremendous effect. It is from the greatest obligations of faith (Īmān) and one of the most virtuous acts of worship that brings a person closer to his Lord. It is the highest station of Tawhīd. Indeed no matter is achieved except by having reliance in Allāh and seeking His aid and assistance (al-Istiʾānah).
Importance
Saʾīd b. Jubayr said,
“Reliance in Allāh is the vessel of faith.”[1]
Reliance in Allāh is linked to everything related to obligatory, recommended and permissible deeds. In fact, even the evildoer may depend upon Allāh in achieving his objective despite it being despised and blameworthy.
People’s needs are many and it is absolutely necessary to have reliance in Allāh in fulfilling them.
Ibn al-Qayyim said,
“If a slave depended upon Allāh with due reliance in moving a mountain from its place, and he was commended to do that, he would surely move it!”[2]
The Muslim does not see dependency upon Allāh in his affairs as something merely recommended; rather it is seen as a religious obligation.
Ibn al-Qayyim said,
“Reliance in Allāh comprises the stations of leaving one’s affairs to Him (al-Tafwīḍ), seeking His aid and assistance (al-Istiʾānah) and contentment (al-Riḍā). It is inconceivable to have reliance without them.”[3]
[1] Musannaf Ibn Abī Shaybah (7/202)
[2] Madārij al-Sālikīn (1/81)
[3] Ibid (1/136)
