Understanding ‘Ibadah’

In a Hadith, it is said, “Supplication (du’a) is Ibadah.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith No. 3527) This does not imply that worship is entirely confined to supplication, or that after supplication, the worshipper need do nothing else. This prophetic statement truly reflects the essence of Ibadah, suggesting that the true essence of worship lies in a servant’s yearning for God, in calling upon Him, in turning to Him utterly helpless, and in being wholeheartedly inclined toward Allah. This is the spirit and true essence of Ibadah. However, just as every reality has various aspects shaped by the different roles, relationships, and circumstances in a person’s life, the essence of Ibadah also has numerous outwardly manifestations, encompassing the entire realm of obedience. The natural demand of worshipping God is that, in all matters that believers encounter, they should practice obedience to Him. The relationship of worship with God necessarily manifests as an obedient relationship with Him. Worship that encompasses rebellion and defiance in practical matters is not genuine worship. In the words of Allama Alusi: “It is clear that true devotion to Allah cannot be realized without also dedicating obedience to Him. If His Majesty is not the exclusive recipient of obedience, then true worship cannot be solely dedicated to Him either.” (Ruh al-Ma’ani, Vol. 5, pp. 276)