The Essence of Obedience

matters, if they follow divine guidance, constitutes individual obedience. It is impermissible for a Muslim to deviate from a command of God in their personal matters if they know it applies to them and are able to fulfill it. The Quran says: “It is not fitting for a believing man or woman to exercise any choice in his or her own affairs once God and His Messenger have reached a decision upon them. Anyone who disobeys God and His Messenger is in manifest error. (Quran, 33:36) This individual obedience is a mandatory right that Allah has over every person. No one can be considered a true servant in God’s sight if they do not follow the commands given to them by God in their daily life, according to their circumstances and responsibilities. If ‘ibadah (worship) reflects a person’s inner submission, ita‘ah (obedience) is about surrendering one’s outward actions to God. A believer’s external life should be completely aligned with God’s will. It is crucial for every believing man and woman, in all aspects of their lives, to fully obey God, even in simple matters like eating and drinking, by adhering to His commands. There is a verse in the Quran: “O you who have believed, eat from the good things which We have provided for you and be grateful to Allah if it is [indeed] Him that you worship.” (2:172)