In the modern world, beauty is often perceived through the lens of physical appearance, external adornments, and societal standards. However, Islam presents a holistic and profound understanding of beauty that transcends the physical and emphasizes inner qualities that are everlasting and more meaningful in the sight of Allah. True beauty, as defined by the Qur’an and Sunnah, lies not in physical attributes, but in taqwa (piety), righteousness, and adherence to the commands of Allah.
Sheikh Abu ‘Amr ḥafidhahullāh eloquently stated that a woman should be content with what Allah, the Most High, has decreed for her. While she may or may not possess physical beauty as defined by societal norms, her piety, devotion, and good character enhance her beauty and elevate her status in this world and the Hereafter.
Allah Almighty says in the Qur’an:
“O children of Adam, We have bestowed upon you clothing to conceal your private parts and as adornment. But the clothing of righteousness (taqwa) – that is best.”
(Surah Al-Aʿrāf: 26)
This verse beautifully highlights that physical clothing serves to cover and adorn, but the garment of taqwa is superior. It adorns the soul, protects from sins, and earns Allah’s pleasure.
Taqwa is often described as consciousness of Allah and a shield against disobedience. When a person, especially a woman, embodies taqwa, it reflects in her actions, speech, and demeanor, making her truly beautiful in the eyes of Allah, His angels, and the believers.
In the sight of Allah, what matters most is the state of a person’s heart and their devotion to Him. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“Allah does not look at your appearance or wealth, but He looks at your hearts and deeds.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2564)
A woman who may not meet society’s superficial standards of beauty but possesses taqwa is more beloved to Allah than one who is outwardly beautiful but lacks piety.
A righteous woman, who fears Allah, fulfills her duties, and remains steadfast upon the Deen, brings goodness not only to herself but also to those around her. Allah promises blessings and honor to those who fear Him and remain upright.
“Whoever fears Allah, He will make for him a way out and will provide for him from where he does not expect.”
(Surah At-Talaq: 2-3)
This promise applies to all believers, including women who prioritize their relationship with Allah over worldly gains.
Marriage in Islam is a sacred bond built upon love, compassion, and mutual respect. A woman’s piety plays a critical role in establishing a successful and harmonious marriage. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized marrying for deen:
“A woman is married for four things: her wealth, her lineage, her beauty, and her religion. Marry the one who is religious, and you will prosper.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 5090; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1466)
A woman who assists her husband in obeying Allah, supports him in acts of worship, and maintains good character will earn his love, respect, and appreciation. Her beauty in his eyes will not fade, even as physical beauty may diminish over time.
Conversely, a woman who possesses physical beauty but lacks righteousness may fail to gain the true affection of her husband. The Qur’an reminds us of this truth:
“A believing slave-woman is better than a free polytheist, even though she may look pleasant to you.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah: 221)
This verse teaches us that faith and righteousness outweigh physical attraction and status. A pious woman brings tranquility and blessings into a household, whereas one who lacks faith may lead to discord and dissatisfaction.
The obsession with physical beauty, fueled by media and societal pressure, often leads to dissatisfaction, insecurity, and a sense of inadequacy. Shaytan (Satan) exploits these vulnerabilities, encouraging individuals to seek validation through external means rather than inner righteousness.
The Prophet ﷺ warned against this deception:
“Verily, Shaytan flows through the son of Adam like blood.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 7171; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2174)
A woman who chases superficial beauty may attract individuals who are shallow and corrupt. Such relationships are often unstable and devoid of the tranquility that Allah grants to those who seek His pleasure.
A woman who attains true beauty in Islam exhibits several key characteristics:
The Prophet ﷺ described the righteous woman as:
“The best of your women are those who are loving, fertile, comforting, and agreeable, provided they have taqwa of Allah.”
(Sunan an-Nasa’i, Hadith 3231)
True beauty lies in taqwa, faith, and righteous deeds. It is a beauty that does not fade with age or change with societal trends. It is a beauty that brings tranquility, earns Allah’s pleasure, and secures success in this life and the Hereafter.
As Allah says:
“Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.”
(Surah Al-Hujurat: 13)
May Allah grant us the ability to recognize and strive for true beauty, the beauty of the heart and soul, and to adorn ourselves with the garment of taqwa. Ameen.
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