Concept of Ikhlas in Islam
There are some 50 references to the word “ikhlas” in the Holy Quran and it refers to purity and refining. When an object is said to be pure, it means that the object does not have any extra combination inside. Verse 66 of Surah An-Nahl reads: “Indeed, in the cattle there is a lesson for you. We give you to drink of that which is in their bellies, between the filth (bowels) and blood, pure milk, which is sweet to those who drink.”
Ikhlas relates to both the spiritual and material aspects of our lives. Accordingly, there is a direct relation between Ikhlas and pure life. Having a pure life is what the Quran recommends. This means that one should worship Allah and move toward Him only for Himself and even not consider this worship as a means to go to Paradise or to avoid Hell and punishments.
The importance of this concept can be somehow understood if one thinks deeply in verse 51 of Surah Maryam which considers Ikhlas as one of the traits of divine prophets: “Mention in the Book, Moses. He was devoted, a Messenger, and a Prophet.”
When satan was expelled from the upper realm, he promised to misguide all people except those who do not have any other aim but God. “He (satan) said: ‘I swear by Your Might, that I will seduce all of them. except those among them who are Your sincere worshipers.”
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