"The Messenger of Allah said: 'Actions are only done with intentions, and every man shall have what he intended. Thus he whose emigration was for Allah and His Messenger, his emigration was for Allah and His Messenger, and he whose emigration was to achieve some worldly benefit or to take some woman in marriage, his emigration was for that which he intended."
Hadith of Intentions: Commentary
This foundational hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i establishes the principle that all deeds are judged according to their underlying intentions. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) distinguishes between actions performed for divine purposes and those driven by worldly motives.
The Two Types of Emigration
The example of emigration (hijrah) illustrates how identical outward actions yield different spiritual rewards based on intention. One who emigrates purely for Allah's pleasure receives the full reward, while one who emigrates for worldly gain receives only what they intended.
Scholarly Interpretation
Classical scholars emphasize that intention (niyyah) transforms ordinary actions into acts of worship. Imam al-Nawawi considered this hadith one of the fundamental principles of Islam. The purity of intention determines whether an action is accepted by Allah.
Practical Application
This teaching applies to all acts of worship including prayer, fasting, charity, and purification rituals. Muslims are instructed to regularly examine and purify their intentions, ensuring all deeds are performed sincerely for Allah's pleasure alone.