Most Beloved Deeds in Islam: Prayer, Honoring Parents, and Striving in Allah’s Path

The Most Beloved Deeds in Islam: Key Actions to Please Allah and Strengthen Faith

The Most Beloved Deeds in the Sight of Allah: A Reminder of the Key Pillars of Righteousness

In the rich teachings of Islam, there are certain deeds that are considered the most beloved and pleasing to Allah (SWT). These actions not only bring us closer to our Creator but also shape our character, guide our behavior, and allow us to live lives filled with purpose and righteousness. One of the most powerful hadiths that outline these key actions was narrated by Abdullah bin Mas’ud (رضي الله عنه), who once asked the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) about the most beloved deeds in the sight of Allah. This hadith highlights three essential actions that stand as pillars of faith and righteousness in a believer’s life: praying on time, honoring one’s parents, and striving in the way of Allah.

1. The Importance of Praying on Time: A Pillar of Faith

Abdullah bin Mas’ud (رضي الله عنه) asked the Prophet (ﷺ), “What is the most beloved deed to Allah?” The Prophet (ﷺ) replied, “To pray at the appointed time.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

The first action that the Prophet (ﷺ) emphasized was the importance of praying on time. Namaz (Salah) holds the highest status in Islam as it is the direct connection between the worshipper and Allah. It is not only a physical act of worship but also an expression of obedience and submission to Allah. Salah is the second pillar of Islam and a constant reminder that our lives are centered around Allah’s commands.

Prayer is a central act of worship that distinguishes a Muslim from others, and it is the first thing for which a person will be held accountable on the Day of Judgment. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) stated:

"The first action that a person will be questioned about on the Day of Judgment is their prayer. If their prayer is good, then they will succeed; if it is bad, they will fail."
(Sunan al-Tirmidhi)

Performing Salah on time is not merely about completing the ritual but about recognizing the significance of the moment and honoring Allah’s command. It is a direct sign of a Muslim’s commitment to their faith, and through it, they seek closeness to Allah, away from the distractions of the world. Allah says in the Qur’an:

"Indeed, prayer has been decreed upon the believers a decree of specified times."
(Surah An-Nisa, 4:103)

Therefore, as Muslims, we must make it a priority in our daily lives to maintain the integrity of our prayer times, regardless of how busy or challenging life becomes. A believer’s dedication to this act of worship reflects their love for Allah and commitment to their faith.

2. Honoring and Respecting One’s Parents: A Reflection of Gratitude

After answering the question about prayer, Abdullah bin Mas’ud (رضي الله عنه) asked, “What comes next?” The Prophet (ﷺ) replied, “To treat your parents with kindness and fulfill their rights.“

Respecting and honoring one’s parents is one of the most emphasized virtues in Islam. The Qur’an repeatedly commands us to be good to our parents, particularly when they reach old age. Allah (SWT) says in the Qur’an:

"And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him with hardship upon hardship, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination."
(Surah Luqman, 31:14)

The Prophet (ﷺ) placed immense importance on the relationship between children and their parents. He said:

"Your mother, your mother, your mother – then your father."
(Sahih Muslim)

This hadith illustrates the elevated status of the mother and the deep respect that is due to her. Islam emphasizes the importance of showing kindness, care, and appreciation to our parents, especially in their old age when they are in need of support. Even when parents may not be Muslim, Islam still commands children to treat them with the utmost respect and compassion, as their sacrifices and care during our upbringing cannot be repaid.

By fulfilling the rights of our parents, we fulfill a significant duty that brings us closer to Allah. It is a way to demonstrate gratitude for the countless sacrifices they made in nurturing and raising us. The Prophet (ﷺ) taught us that treating our parents with kindness, love, and respect is a key way to earn the pleasure of Allah. As we reflect on their sacrifices, we are reminded to show them mercy, care, and patience throughout their lives.

3. Striving in the Path of Allah: Sacrifice and Effort for the Greater Good

Finally, when Abdullah bin Mas’ud (رضي الله عنه) asked what was the best deed after honoring one’s parents, the Prophet (ﷺ) replied, “To strive in the way of Allah.” This refers to Jihad, which, in the Islamic context, means striving and struggling for the sake of Allah – whether in battle, in spreading the message of Islam, or in any action that furthers the cause of Islam and serves the welfare of the Muslim community.

While the word “Jihad” is often misunderstood in the modern context, its meaning in Islam is far broader. It represents a commitment to self-sacrifice and striving towards the betterment of one’s own faith and the Ummah (community). This includes personal sacrifices, whether through monetary charity (sadaqah), time, effort, or even defending Islam when necessary.

The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

"A single struggle in the way of Allah is better than the whole world and everything in it."
(Sahih Muslim)

Striving for Allah’s sake involves personal sacrifices, whether through knowledge, time, or wealth. It can also mean serving the needs of others and contributing to society in ways that reflect the values of Islam. Ultimately, it’s about putting Allah’s pleasure above personal desires and striving to live a life that is pleasing to Him.

The Holistic Approach of Islam to Righteousness

From this hadith, it is clear that Islam encourages a holistic approach to righteousness, where both spiritual and social duties are intertwined. To be a true believer, one must not only maintain a strong relationship with Allah through prayer but also fulfill their duties towards others, especially their parents. Furthermore, a believer must be willing to sacrifice for the greater good of the community and strive in the path of Allah to spread His message and work for His cause.

These acts of worship and kindness are not just rituals; they are a manifestation of a believer’s commitment to Islam and a reflection of their gratitude towards Allah. The Prophet (ﷺ) taught us that through these deeds, we earn Allah’s pleasure and find success in this world and the Hereafter.

Conclusion: Embracing These Actions in Our Lives

As Muslims, it is crucial to integrate these beloved deeds into our daily lives. Performing prayers on time, honoring and respecting our parents, and striving in the path of Allah should be fundamental principles that guide our actions. By following the teachings of the Prophet (ﷺ) and prioritizing these righteous deeds, we move closer to Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and eternal reward.

Let us strive to embody these acts of righteousness in our daily routines. May Allah guide us to be diligent in our worship, compassionate towards our parents, and active in seeking His pleasure. Ameen.