Importance of "Good Intentions" in Islam:
Good intentions never change anything. They only become a deeper and deeper rut. Life is short and if you are looking for extension, you had best do well. Cause there is good deeds and then there ja good intentions.In Islam, good intentions known as "Niyyah", are paramount. Islamic scholars say that actions are judges by their intentions, and a sincere intention can transform even seemingly mundane actions into acts of worship. Islamic teachings emphasize that even if the intended good deed is not fully realized due to unforeseen circumstances, the reward for the sincere intention remains, conversely an evil act cannot be justified by a good intention.
Intention in Islam is also known as Niyyah in Arabic. Before Muslims do anything they first make a Niyyah especially when it comes to good deeds and worshipping Allah like fasting, giving charity and praying.
In general, intentions are made to bring us closer to Allah almighty. You can think of it as the motive behind an action. For instance, Muslims give out charity to attain rewards and draw themselves closer to Allah.
The Messenger said: " The deeds are considered by the intentions, and a person will get the reward according to his intention. So whoever, emigrated for Allah and his Messenger; and whoever emigrated for worldly benefits or for a woman to marry, his emigration would be for what he emigrated for."
Intention is key:
The Prophet Muhammad SAW us reported to have said:
"Actions are judged by intentions, and a person will have what he intended." This Hadith highlights that the value of any action, whether good or bad, is determined by the intention behind it.
Transformation of actions:
A pure intention can elevate even ordinary acts, making them a means of drawing closer to Allah.
Reward for sincere intention:
If one sincerely intends to do a good deed, but is unable to complete it due to circumstances beyond their control, they still receive for that intention.
Accountability:
Islamic scholars say the day of judgement, people will be judged based on their intentions and actions, sincere intentions play a crucial role in achieving a favorable outcome on that day.
Avoiding rationalization:
It's crucial to avoid rationalizing evil actions with good intentions, as no evil act can be justified by a good intentions, according to Islamic scholars.
Sincerity essential:
Islam emphasizes sincerity in all Actions, urging believers to purify their intentions and dedicate their deeds, to Allah SWT alone, free from hypocrisy or showing off.
Good intentions important in Islam:
Islam teaches that intentions play a crucial role in determining the moral values and reward of an action.A good deed performed with pure and sincere intention is considered more valuable in the aight if Allah than a deed done with a selfish and insincere intention.
What does tha Quran say about good intentions:
" Indeed, deeds are judged by intentions. Every man will be rewarded only for what they intended ".
Concept of intention in Islam:
Islam is a religion that emphasizes the importance of intention. In order for any dees to be considered as an act of worship, it must be done with sincere intention. This is known as Niyyah in Arabic.
In Islam, good intentions (niyyah) are foundational to the faith and play a critical role in determining the value and outcome of a person's actions. The concept is deeply rooted in both the Qur’an and Hadith, emphasizing that the internal motivation behind an action is as important—if not more so—than the action itself.
1. Definition of Niyyah (Intention)
Niyyah refers to the internal purpose or motivation behind an act. In Islam, every action is judged not only by its outward form but also by the intention behind it.
2. Key Hadith
The most cited Hadith regarding intention is:
"Actions are judged by intentions, and every person will get the reward according to what he intended." Sahih al-Bukhari & Sahih Muslim (Hadith of Umar ibn al-Khattab)
This Hadith is considered a cornerstone in Islamic jurisprudence and ethics.
3. Importance of Good Intentions in Islam
a. Intentions Determine Reward
A seemingly small act, like giving a smile or a glass of water, can be highly rewarded if done sincerely for Allah.Conversely, a good act done for show or reputation might earn no reward or even be sinful.
b. Transforming the Mundane into Worship
Ordinary daily actions (eating, working, resting) become acts of worship when done with good intentions, such as maintaining health to serve Allah better or providing for one's family.
c. Intention Can Make or Break Deeds
A valid prayer, fasting, charity, or Hajj is not accepted without the right intention (to obey Allah.For example, praying to be seen by others (showing off) is condemned.
4. Intention in Islamic Law (Fiqh)
Many Islamic rulings require a clear intention. For instance:Fasting in Ramadan requires the intention before dawn.Prayer is invalid without intention.Zakat must be given with the intention that it is for the sake of Allah.
5. Sincerity (Ikhlas) and Purity of Intentions
Ikhlas means doing something solely for the sake of Allah without seeking any worldly benefit.It is the highest level of good intention, aligning actions with divine purpose.
6. Dual Reward for Good Intentions
If someone intends a good deed but cannot carry it out, they are still rewarded.If they follow through, the reward is multiplied.
If someone intends a bad deed but refrains, it can count as a good deed due to self-restraint.
“Allah has recorded the good and the bad deeds...”
Why is intention important:
Intentions provide you with the focus you need to progress towards what you want to achieve. No matter what it is you are after, like a new relationship or starting a life coaching practice, begining your day with intentions can help you get there.
Benefits of good intentions:
Assuming positive intentions: Leads to better, more trusting relationships. Creates better opportunities for understanding and resolving conflicts. Reduces anxiety and stress.
Name of the intention in Islam:
"Niyyah" is an Arabic word meaning purpose or intention. It is core principle to Islamic faith and is the foundation to every act if worship a Muslim performs. The Niyyah of a person is the reason and intent behind their action.
True intentions in Islam:
Everything we do has to be intended for the sake of Allah SWT. A good action with the wrong intention will not get us any reward in the hereafter.
Does Allah reward you for good intentions:
They are follows: Whoever intends to performa a good deed, but does not follow through with the act. Allah SWT still records it as a complete dees. However if he also follows through with the deed, Allah SWT multiple the reward for that deed.
How to have intention in Islam:
" Say, May prayers and sacrifice, my life and my death, are all for Allah, Lord for the world's". After having made this intention, think of all the deeds you except or plan to do during the day, and make a supplication that O my Allah paak, I will perform these deeds purely to please you.
Types of intention:
An intention comprises of a specific state of mind i.e. where you firmly intend to commit a crime. Negligence is regarded as that conduct which happened accidentally. The word dolus means intent. There are 3 types of intention in law.
1. Direct intention.
2. Indirect intention.
3. Legal intention.
In Islam, good intentions (niyyah) are central to the value of any action. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“Actions are judged by intentions, and everyone will be rewarded according to what they intended.”
Good intentions can transform ordinary actions into acts of worship. Below are types of good intentions that are encouraged and rewarded in Islam:
🌟 1. Intention to Please Allah (Ikhlas)
Definition: Doing something purely for the sake of Allah, without seeking recognition or praise.
Examples:
Praying to seek closeness to Allah.Giving charity to earn Allah’s mercy.
🕋 2. Intention to Fulfill a Religious Duty
Definition: Doing obligatory acts with the intention of obeying Allah's commands.
Examples:
Fasting during Ramadan with the intention of fulfilling the pillar of Islam.Performing Hajj with the intention to complete the obligation.
🧠 3. Intention to Learn and Spread Knowledge
Definition: Seeking knowledge to benefit oneself and others for Allah’s sake.
Examples:
Studying Islam to become a better Muslim.Teaching Qur’an or hadith to others.
🤝 4. Intention to Help Others (Ihsan)
Definition: Aiming to serve others out of compassion and as a form of worship.
Examples:
Feeding the poor to earn Allah’s reward.
Supporting someone emotionally or financially for Allah’s sake.
⚖️ 5. Intention to Avoid Harm or Sin
Definition: Avoiding bad actions because you fear Allah and want to stay on the right path.
Examples:
Restraining anger to avoid saying hurtful things. Leaving a job or deal involving riba (interest) for the sake of Allah.
🛠️ 6. Intention to Earn Halal Income
Definition: Working or studying to provide for yourself and your family lawfully.
Examples:
Working with the intention of avoiding haram income.Providing for one’s family as a form of sadaqah (charity).
🏃 7. Intention to Improve Oneself (Tazkiyah)
Definition: Striving to purify the heart and correct one’s behavior for the sake of Allah.
Examples:
Making du‘a and self-reflection to overcome arrogance.Being patient during trials to grow in faith.
💭 8. Silent Intentions (Hidden Good)
Definition: Private acts done with sincere, quiet devotion to Allah alone.
Examples:
Smiling at someone with the intention of spreading kindness.Picking up litter to remove harm from the path, even if no one sees it.
🕌 9. Intention Before Every Act of Worship
Definition: Making a clear mental decision to perform the act as worship.
Examples:
Intending to pray for the sake of fulfilling salah.Making wudu with the intent of purification.
🤲 10. Intentions for Future Good (Even if Not Carried Out)
Hadith: “If a servant intends to do a good deed but does not do it, Allah will record it as a full good deed.” — [Bukhari & Muslim]
Examples:
Intending to give charity but not having the means.Intending to memorize the Qur’an but dying before doing so.
Hadith say about good intentions:
Umar ibn al-Khattab reported: The Messenger of Allah SWT, said: " Verily, deeds are only with intentions, and every person will have only what that intended. Whoever emigrated to Allah SWT and his Messenger, his emigration is for Allah and his Messenger.
Meaning of good intentions in life:
A good intention is a conscious choice to act positively, kindness and authenticity. It's not just about wanting to do good deeds- it's about aligning your thoughts, words, and actions with those values .
Power of intention:
Intention is generally viewed as a certain kind of determination propelling one to succeed at all costs by never giving up on an inner picture. In This view, an attitude that combines hard work with an indefatigable drive toward excellence is the way to succeed.
Rules of intention:
There are two rules of intention.
1. Direct intent:
Direct intent, a person has direct intent when they intend a particular consequence of their act.
2. Oblique intent:
The person has oblique intent when the event is a natural consequence of a voluntary act and they foresee it as such.
Power of good intentions:
The results confirm that good intentions - even misguided ones- can sooth pain, increase pleasure, and make things taste better.
Good intention in the Quran Kareem:
It refers to a state of heart that is sincere and intends to do something. Intention is the basis of all practices in Islam and gives meaning and purpose to every action. Intention is not just words, but it involves sincerity and willingness to perform a practice solely for the sake of Allah SWT.
Benefits of having goof Niyyah:
Unity of heart and action:
Niyyah serves as a unifying factor, bringing one's outward actions and inner spiritual state into harmony. It guarantees a wholistic outlook in life and worship.
Influence on reward:
The sincerity and purity if one's intentions are directly related to the reward for any given actor.
Hadith on good intention:
It is narrated on the authority of Abu Huraira that the Messenger of Allah SWT observed:
He who intended to do good, but did not do it, one good was recorded for him, and he who intended to do good and also did it, ten to seven hundred good deeds were recorded for him.
How to have pure intention in Islam:
For Muslims, being Allah -conscious (taqwa) is one of the ways to ensure our intentions are pure. When we are conscious of Allah, it is natural that we only act upon that which pleases Allah. Things that also being benefit and comfort to us and others, not otherwise.
Power of intention in Islam:
Therefore, as Muslims, we must always make an intention in our hearts before performing any activity, remembering that Allah SWT will reward our deeds bases on our intentions. Indeed, Allah is knowing and all seeing of all our actions bases on our intentions.
How to pray with intention:
Pray of intention:
"Lord, I am here, I present my self and mu will to you as my act of worship. Here I am." This wakes me up daily to recognize the person of God and his independent will for us."
Does Allah judge our intentions:
True, people intentions are the first requisite for pleasing Allah, and we know that he will judge our deeds starting from our intentions.
Right intentions:
The three right intentions that are included in the noble eight fold path include
1. The intention of renunciation.
2. The intention of non-ill will.
3. The intention of non- cruelty.
Each of these intentions highlights an attitude that we can cultivates as we wanted into any action of body, speech, or mind.
Levels of intentions:
- Level 1: What you do. There ja much more to the levels of intention than simply taking action.
- Level 2: What you speak. The next level of intention is sound.
- Level 3: what you think.
- Level 4: what you feel.
In Islam, intentions (niyyah) vary in depth and sincerity, and scholars have discussed different levels or ranks of intention. The more sincere and refined your intention, the greater the reward and spiritual impact of your action.
Here are the main levels of intention in Islam, from basic to the highest:
🔹 1. Intention Without Awareness (Habitual)
Definition: Doing something good but without consciously intending it for Allah.
Example: Giving charity out of routine, or praying just because it's time—without reflecting on why.
Ruling: May still be accepted, but reward is limited or even lost if there's no sincerity.
🔹 2. Intention for Dunya (Worldly Benefits)
Definition: Doing good deeds for fame, praise, status, or money.
Example: Donating publicly just to be seen as generous.
Ruling: This is a corrupt or invalid intention (riyā’), and the act may be rejected by Allah.
Warning: The Prophet ﷺ said,
"The thing I fear most for you is minor shirk: showing off."
🔹 3. Intention to Fulfill Obligation
Definition: Doing a required act with the intention to obey Allah and avoid sin.
Example: Fasting in Ramadan because it is fard.
Ruling: Valid and rewarded. This is the minimum level needed for worship to be accepted.
🔹 4. Intention to Please Allah Alone (Ikhlāṣ)
Definition: Doing the act solely to earn Allah’s pleasure and reward.
Example: Praying tahajjud at night for closeness to Allah.
Ruling: Highly rewarded. This is true sincerity (ikhlāṣ) and is the goal of every believer.
🔹 5. Intention to Seek Allah, the Hereafter, and Jannah
Definition: Doing good with hope for Allah’s nearness, Paradise, and success in the Akhirah.
Example: Giving zakat with the hope of attaining Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.
Ruling: A high level of niyyah praised in the Qur’an and Sunnah.
🔹 6. Intention to Thank Allah (Shukr)
Definition: Performing good deeds out of gratitude for Allah’s blessings.
Example: Praying extra rak‘ahs out of thanks for good health.
Ruling: This is a noble and refined level, showing love and awareness of Allah's favors.
🔹 7. Intention to Love and Worship Allah for His Beauty and Majesty
Definition: Doing good deeds purely out of love for Allah, not seeking reward or fearing punishment.
Example: Praying because you love to speak with Allah, not for Paradise or fear of Hell.
Ruling: This is the highest level of intention—found in the hearts of the prophets and righteous saints.
Level Description Spiritual Status
1. Habitual Intention Good action without conscious niyyah Weak or no reward
2. Worldly Intention Seeking fame, praise, or money Invalid or sinful
3. Fulfilling Obligation To obey Allah and avoid sin Valid, rewarded
4. Seeking Allah's Pleasure (Ikhlāṣ) Doing it solely for Allah Sincere, highly rewarded
5. Seeking the Afterlife Hope for Jannah and Allah’s mercy Highly rewarded
6. Gratitude to Allah Motivated by thankfulness Spiritually elevated
What is make intention in Islam:
In prayer, intention or Niyyah is formed by remembering it before praying and it is a condition that the praying person specifies the prayer that he is about to perform, Asr or Dhur. " He makes the intention at heart.
What are good intentions useful:
Good intentions help us to be more mindful of our choices and to act in ways that are in alignment with our values. When we are clear about our intentions, we are more likely to make choices that are supportive of our overall well being. Intentions can also help us to let go of attachments to outcomes.
Basic intention:
Basic intent refers to offences where either intention or recklessness will satisfy mens rea. Ulterior intent refers to offences where an additional it is necessary to show that the defendant intended to do something in addition to the basic mens rea of the offense.
Value of intentions:
Intention from the basis for determining how you meet each moment and they keep you true to who you are as you move towards your goals. Unlike goals which are future-based, intentions always relate to the present moment.
Power of good intentions:
The results confirm that good intentions even misguided ones- can sooth pain, increase pleasure, and make things taste better.
Purpose of intention:
Intention is not about what we want to derive from the action we take. It is the mindset and energy we bring to our endeavors. Setting clear intentions allow us to align our actions with our desired outcomes. It helps us stay focused and mindful of the steps we need to take to achieve our goals.
In Islam, good intentions (niyyah) are not just a formality—they are the heart of every action. They define the value, reward, and purpose of what we do. Below are the key purposes of good intentions in Islam:
1. To Earn Allah’s Pleasure and Reward
Purpose: The ultimate goal of a Muslim's life is to please Allah.
Explanation: Even everyday acts—like eating, sleeping, or working—can become acts of worship if done with the intention of pleasing Allah.
Example: Earning halal income with the intention of supporting one’s family becomes worship.
2. To Distinguish Between Acts of Worship and Habit
Purpose: Intention turns routine into ibadah (worship).
Explanation: Without intention, actions are just habits. With intention, they gain spiritual weight.
Example: Taking a shower can be a habit, but with the intention of purification before prayer, it becomes an act of worship.
3. To Ensure Sincerity (Ikhlāṣ)
Purpose: Intention filters out hypocrisy or showing off (riyā’).
Explanation: Allah accepts actions done sincerely for Him alone.
Qur’an: “And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion...” (Surah Al-Bayyina 98:5)
4. To Align Actions with Faith
Purpose: Niyyah connects the external act with the internal belief.
Explanation: A good intention makes actions meaningful in the context of Islamic values.
Example: Giving charity to purify the heart—not just to look generous.
5. To Gain Reward Even If the Action Fails
Purpose: Good intentions are rewarded, even without the outcome.
Hadith: “If someone intends to do a good deed but does not do it, Allah writes it as a full good deed.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
6. To Increase Consciousness of Allah (Taqwa)
Purpose: Intentions help Muslims live with purpose and mindfulness.
Explanation: You’re constantly asking, “Why am I doing this?” which builds taqwa.
Example: Resisting anger or gossip because you remember Allah.
7. To Transform the Entire Life into Worship
Purpose: Islam is a complete way of life—not just rituals.
Explanation: Good intentions can turn every part of life into an act of devotion.
Example: Sleeping early with the intention to wake up for Fajr prayer.
8. To Purify the Heart and Character
Purpose: Niyyah builds moral integrity and inner discipline.
Explanation: When the heart is guided by good intentions, actions reflect goodness.
Example: Forgiving someone with the intention to please Allah helps overcome pride.
Earn Allah’s reward Even small deeds are valuable. Add meaning to routine Habits become worship. Ensure sincerity Protects from showing off. Reward even in failure Encouragement to aim for good. Build mindfulness Leads to taqwa and self-discipline. Shape character Intentions purify the heart.
Importance of Niyyah in Islam:
Intention in Islam are of great significance for every Muslim. It is important to have a good motive behind your actions especially when it comes to ibadah. For instance, someone who gives charity in public for people to see him and praise him is wrong, charity should be given with the intention of pleasing Allah.
Narrated Jundub:
The Prophet Muhammad SAW said:
" He who let's the people hear of his good deeds intentionally, to win their praise, Allah will let the people know his real intention, and he who does good things in public to show off and win tha praise of the people, Allah SWT will disclose his real intention."
As a Muslim we will be held accountable not just for our actions but also for our Niyyah. We are rewarded for having the intention of doing something good even if we fail to accomplish it.
" Indeed, deeds are judged by intentions. Every man will be rewarded only for what they intended.
Facts about Niyyah in Islam:
Here are some of the fun facts you need to know about intentions in Islam:
Sincerity:
In Islam, sincerity and intention are closely related concepts. It is vital to have pure intentions that are focused only on worshipping and appeasing Allah, devoid of any desire for accalim, recognition, or worldly gain.
Internal aspect:
Niyyah is an internal pledge that does not always need to be expressed our loud, it is found in the believers heart and mind.
Worship:
A clear and sincere intention is necessary for any act of worship to be valid. For example, a believer should consciously intend to do something solely for Allah before praying, fasting giving charity or foin the Hajj.
General life:
There are intentions beyond religious deeds. It is encouraged to have good intentions in all facets of life in Islam. Ordinary tasks can become acts of worship when carried out with the goal of seeking Allah's pleasure .
Correcting intentions:
It is advised to stop, make the necessary corrections, and resume the act of worship if one's intentions are clouded by worldly motives while performing it.
The Prophet Muhammad SAW underlines that intentions determine the outcomes of actions. Regardless of the result or appearance of an actions, a person will be rewarded according to their intentions.
Unity if heart and action:
Niyyah serves as a unifying factor, bringing one's outward actions and inner spiritual state into harmony. It guarantees wholistic outlook on life and worship.
Influence on reward:
The sincerity and purity of one's intentions are directly related to the reward for any given action. A seemingly insignificant action can become extremely rewarding when done with sincerity.
Intention for prayer in Islam:
To make intentions for praying you should have the intention in your heart you don't need to say it verbally. Actually, it is better not to say it out loud. And here is how you can make the Niyyah for prayers.
" I have turned my face towards the one who has originated the heavens and the earth - being upright - and I am not one of the polytheistics."
You can also recited
" I offer ( name of Salah) prayer seeking nearness to Allah SWT, in obedience to him."
Niyyah for ablution:
Another important intention in Islam is the Niyyah before making Ablution, here is what you can say:
" I am performing wudu, qurbatan ilallah ( to gain proximity to allah SWT).
I intend to perform Ablution for Allah SWT most high.
Remember there is no need to say the intention our loud, the true Niyyah comes from the heart.
Hazrat Umar bin kharab reported:
The Messenger of Allah SWT said:
" The deeds are considered by the intentions, and a person will get the reward according to his intention. So whoever emigrated for Allah and his Messenger, his emigration will be for Allah SWT and his Messenger; and whoever emigrated for worldly benefits or for a woman to marry his emigration would be for what he emigrated for."
Intentions in Islam for Hajj and Umrah:
Before performing the Hajj or Umrah you should also make your intention. Any act or worship should be accompanied by a Niyyah, and when it comes to intentions in Islam for Hajj and Umrah you could say the following:
Labbayk Allahuma Umaratan wa Hajj
Allahuma innee ureedul umrataw-wa Hajj
Allahuma innee ureedul hajja fa yassir- hu Lee wa taqabbal- hu minnee.
Translation:
O Allah here I am to perform Hajj and Umrah. O Allah, I intend to perform Umrah and Hajj. O Allah, I intend to perform Umrah and Hajj, so make them easy for me and accept them from me.
Conclusion:
Intention is Islam are of great importance to every Muslim,not just when it comes to ibadah but also in anything in life. We are rewarded for our intentions, and if we intend to do something good and fail to do it we will be rewarded for having the intention to please. The Messenger of Allah said, " The deeds are considered by the intentions, and a person will get the reward according to his intention. So whoever emigrated for Allah and his Messenger, his emigration will be for Allah and his Messenger; and whoever emigrated for worldly benefits or for a woman to marry, his emigration would be for what he emigrated for.".