Ikhlas

Ikhlas is a term of Arabic origin that carries meanings of 'purity', 'cleanliness', and 'sincerity'. In Sufism, it emphasizes that a deed should be performed for the sake of Allah's pleasure. Ikhlas means that a person performs every action, every worship with a sincere intention and solely for the purpose of serving Allah. This concept forms the essence of Sufism and is considered one of the fundamental ways to draw closer to Allah. Sufi masters have often pointed out the arduous yet necessary nature of attaining ikhlas. It is believed that acts of worship performed without ikhlas do not yield spiritual benefits. A person's intention determines the quality and degree of their worship. Ikhlas also means that a person submits themselves to Allah, purifying themselves from the desires of the self, and directing themselves solely towards the Truth.