Ta'a (Obedience)

How the scholars use Ta'a (Obedience).

1. "and so on, leading to multiplied profit and increased good deeds. This also applies to sins, until acts of obedience and sins become entrenched, habitual states, and firm traits. If the doer of good ceases their obedience, they feel constrained, as though the earth is narrow despite its vastness, and they feel like a fish out of water, until they return to it, and their soul finds rest and their eyes find solace. If the sinner ceases their wrongdoing and turns toward obedience, they feel constrained, their chest tightens, and they find it difficult, until they return to their sin. Indeed, many sinners commit"

   — Ibn al-Qayyim, The Disease and The Cure

2. "what invalidates an action due to ostentation and what does not, and clarification of the remedy and treatment for ostentation. A clarification of the lenience regarding displaying acts of obedience and concealing sins, and the issue of ceasing acts of obedience for fear of ostentation and afflictions. A clarification of what is valid from the servant’s enthusiasm for acts of worship due to being seen by others and what the seeker must commit to in their heart before and after obedience."

   — Imam al-Ghazali, Book 28: Condemnation of Status and Showing Off

3. "Expecting this outcome naturally brings joy, as the prospect of gain is pleasing. The fourth scenario is when he is praised by others for his obedience, rejoicing in their obedience to Allah in praising him, in their love for the obedient, and in their hearts' inclination towards obedience. Conversely, it is a sign of a true believer's faith when he sees the obedient and does not harbor animosity, jealousy, or mock them or attribute their deeds to showing off."

   — Imam al-Ghazali, Book 28: Condemnation of Status and Showing Off