Riyāʾ
Definition
Riya — showing off or performing acts of worship for the sake of human recognition — is the disease that ikhlas is the cure for. Al-Ghazali's analysis of riya is one of the most psychologically sophisticated sections of the entire Ihya. He identifies its spectrum: from the obvious (performing extra prayer when someone is watching) to the almost undetectable (feeling a slight additional motivation to do good when one knows others will hear of it). He introduces the terrifying concept of 'al-shirk al-khafi' — hidden association — to describe the most subtle forms of riya, in which the heart is nominally performing for God but is actually performing for the reflected approval of creation.
As understood in the classical tradition of Imam al-Ghazali and the scholars of his school.
How the scholars use Riyāʾ.
-
"Ibrahim ibn Adham said, "The one who desires fame has not been truthful to God." Explanation of the True Nature of Riya and What is Intended by It: Know that 'riya' (showing off) is derived from 'seeing,' and 'fama' (reputation) comes from 'hearing. Essentially, 'riya' is about seeking stature in people's hearts by displaying acts of goodness."
— Imam al-Ghazali, Book 28: Condemnation of Status and Showing Off
-
"If not for the heart’s inclination towards people, such joy would not manifest upon being observed. Riya lies latent like fire hidden in stone; exposure of his acts by creation reveals signs of joy. If he experiences the pleasure of being noticed and does not despise it, this becomes nourishment for the hidden root of riya, eventually moving him quietly towards showing himself to people through indirect hints."
— Imam al-Ghazali, Book 28: Condemnation of Status and Showing Off
-
"If someone says, "My mother has a weak heart and she's very concerned about me. She believes that if I were to fast for a day, I would fall ill, so she doesn't allow me to fast," such statements indicate the presence of the affliction of showing off, known as riya. These words come from a deep-rooted presence of riya within. A sincere person, however, does not care how others perceive him."
— Imam al-Ghazali, Book 28: Condemnation of Status and Showing Off
Appears in
3 books in the library
Hear the term in context.
Every book above uses Riyāʾ the way the classical scholars meant it. Listen with the full Study Kit in the app.