Tawfeeq is a beautiful and profound concept in Islam. It refers to the divine guidance and support from Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) that empowers a person to succeed in righteous deeds and find true happiness both in this world and the Hereafter. Unlike worldly success, Tawfeeq is about aligning our actions with what pleases Allah. The Quran reminds us in Surah Al-Nisa, “Whomsoever Allah guides, he is the rightly guided, and whomsoever He sends astray, those, they are the losers” (4:88).
Tawfeeq is, therefore, a manifestation of Allah’s immense mercy and favor. Tawfeeq can be seen in many aspects of a believer’s life. It might be the ability to consistently perform good deeds, stay steadfast in worship, or handle life’s challenges with patience and faith. For example, being able to pray on time, maintain good character, and resist the temptation to sin are all signs of Tawfeeq. The Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said, “Whoever Allah intends good for, He gives him understanding of the religion” (Bukhari, Muslim). This understanding and ability to apply it in our lives is a clear sign of Tawfeeq.
Tawfeeq isn’t something that just happens; it’s something we must seek earnestly. One of the best ways to earn Tawfeeq is through sincere dua (supplication) and reliance on Allah. The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) often prayed, “اللهم لا تكلني إلى نفسي طرفة عين” (O Allah, do not leave me to my own devices even for the blink of an eye). This dua reflects our need to constantly seek Allah’s guidance and support.
Acts of obedience, like regular prayer, giving charity, and reciting the Quran, also help attract Tawfeeq into our lives. As Ibn al-Qayyim (رحمه الله) said, Tawfeeq is given to those whose hearts are pure and intentions sincere. On the flip side, neglecting our religious duties and engaging in sin can cause us to lose Tawfeeq. Sin creates a barrier between us and the blessings of Tawfeeq. Ibn al-Qayyim (رحمه الله) warns that “Sins take away blessings, diminish provisions, and remove Tawfeeq.” Persistent sin without repentance is a major reason for losing this divine guidance.
Tawfeeq brings contentment, peace of mind, and success in both this life and the next. A person blessed with Tawfeeq lives with a sense of purpose, confident that their actions are guided by divine wisdom. Tawfeeq also deepens our relationship with Allah, helping us lead a life full of righteousness and fulfillment. Tawfeeq is a priceless gift from Allah that guides us towards righteousness and eternal success. It’s earned through sincere devotion, prayer, and obedience, while sin and negligence lead to its loss. Seeking Tawfeeq is essential for living a meaningful and spiritually enriched life. It is the light that guides the soul to its true purpose. Without Allah’s Tawfeeq, even the strongest efforts falter; with it, the impossible becomes possible. True success is not in what we achieve, but in aligning our hearts with the will of Allah.
Sh. Hassan Natour
