The Sin of the Eyes and Privacy: How Protecting One's Gaze Illuminates the Heart?

Introduction

Every human heart contains a light; this light serves as a means for the person's spiritual and moral enlightenment. Islam teaches about the obstacles one may encounter on their spiritual journey and how to overcome these obstacles. The sin of the eyes is one of these obstacles; however, a person who safeguards their eyes and gaze takes a significant step towards illuminating their heart.

Historical/Religious Background

In the Qur'an and the Sunnah of our Prophet (peace be upon him), great emphasis has been placed on the safeguarding of the eyes. Allah the Exalted commands believing men and women to lower their gazes in Surah An-Nur, verses 30-31:

'Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their chastity. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do.' (An-Nur: 24/30)

On the other hand, our Prophet (peace be upon him) also stated in a hadith:

'The zina of the eyes is looking.' (Bukhari, Al-Isti'zan 12)

Detailed Lists and Applications

To protect oneself from the sin of the eyes, we can follow these steps:

• Dua: It is important to pray for protection from looking at what is forbidden and to seek help from Allah. For example, the dua "Allahümmeğfir li zenbi ve tahhir kalbi ve hassin fereci" can be recited.
• Controlling the Environment: Paying attention to the environments one is in reinforces the sense of privacy.
• Using Social Media: Being cautious on social media platforms regarding what is forbidden and using these platforms consciously.

Lessons from Scholars

Imam Ghazali noted that the protection of the eyes contributes to a person's inner peace and said:

'The one who protects their eyes from the forbidden finds spiritual tranquility in their heart.'

Another great scholar, Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyya, stated:

'Controlling one's gaze leads to the revival of the heart and the nurturing of the soul.'

Conclusion

The heart is the place where the light of Allah manifests. A believer who protects their eyes and lowers their gaze will feel this light in their heart and will comprehend the spiritual aspects of life more profoundly. Stepping forward on this path through prayer and a conscious lifestyle should be the aim of every believer. May Allah protect us from the forbidden and illuminate our hearts. Ameen.