Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "The reward of deeds depends upon the intention and every person will get the reward according to what he has intended. So whoever emigrated for Allah and His Apostle, then his emigration was for Allah and His Apostle. And whoever emigrated for worldly benefits or for a woman to marry, his emigration was for what he emigrated for."
Hadith of Intention
Sahih al-Bukhari 54 - Book of Belief
Textual Analysis
This hadith establishes the fundamental principle that the validity and reward of all actions depend upon the sincerity of intention (niyyah). The Prophet ﷺ distinguishes between those who perform deeds for Allah's pleasure and those who seek worldly gains.
The emigration (hijrah) mentioned serves as a powerful example, illustrating how identical outward actions yield different spiritual outcomes based on underlying motives.
Scholarly Commentary
Imam al-Nawawi states this hadith encompasses one-third of Islam, as actions involve the heart, tongue, and limbs - and intention governs all three. The heart's orientation determines the spiritual value of deeds.
Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali explains that intention transforms ordinary habits into acts of worship when directed toward Allah. Likewise, it can degrade religious acts into worldly pursuits when intentions are corrupt.
Al-Qurtubi emphasizes that intention precedes action just as the soul precedes the body. Without proper intention, deeds are like bodies without souls - outwardly present but spiritually lifeless.
Practical Implications
Muslims must purify their intentions before every act of worship and permissible worldly activity. Seeking Allah's pleasure should be the ultimate objective.
Scholars note that renewing intention is recommended for lengthy acts of worship, and correcting intention is necessary when distraction occurs during devotion.
This teaching protects against hypocrisy (riya') and ensures spiritual progress through conscious connection with the Divine in all aspects of life.