Ten Ways to Deflect Punishment
How to Deflect Off an Evil Punishment (كيف تندفع عقوبة السيئة)
On Seeking Refuge from Punishment Shaykh ul Islaam Ibn Taymeeyah Rahimahullaah said: ‘When a believer does an evil action then its punishment can be deflected from him by ten ways:
Ten Ways to Deflect Punishment
- Repentance (Tawbah): Allah (SWT) loves those who turn to Him in sincere repentance: “Truly, Allah loves those who turn unto Him in repentance and loves those who purify themselves” (Quran 2:222).
- Istighfar (Seeking Forgiveness): Humbly asking for Allah’s pardon holds immense power: “And whoever does a wrong or wrongs himself but then seeks forgiveness of Allah will find Allah Forgiving and Merciful.” (Quran 4:110)
- Good Deeds: Replacing bad deeds with virtuous actions erases negativity, as Allah reminds us: “Indeed, good deeds do away with misdeeds. That is a reminder for those who remember.” (Quran 11:114)
- Supplications (Du’a) from Fellow Believers: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The supplication of a Muslim for his brother in his absence is readily accepted.” (Sahih Muslim)
- Gifting Rewards: Just as charity benefits the giver and receiver, gifting the rewards of our righteous deeds extends blessings to us as well.
- Intercession of the Prophet ﷺ: Our Prophet Muhammad ﷺ will be our advocate on the Day of Judgement, a mercy from Allah.
- Trials in This Life: Hardships can be a means of purification: “And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient” (Quran 2:155).
- Trials of the Barzakh (Grave): Difficulties in the intermediate realm can also expiate sins.
- Trials on the Day of Judgement: The events of that momentous Day will also present opportunities to reduce our burdens.
- Allah’s Mercy: The Most Merciful can forgive as He wills, a testament to His boundless compassion.
Strengthen Your Foundation, Deepen Your Practice
The Institute of Quran and Sunnah offers enriching courses designed to enhance your understanding of these core concepts. Explore our offerings in [Tafseer, Fiqh, or other relevant topics] to gain a stronger foundation in your faith.
A Reminder
Shaykh ul Islaam’s words highlight that if we do not strive towards these avenues of redemption, we cannot hold anyone accountable but ourselves. Let this Ramadan be a time of profound transformation. May Allah (SWT) cleanse us of our sins, protect us from punishment, and illuminate our paths with His mercy. Ameen.
