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What is the difference between istighfaar and tawbaa?

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In a Nutshell

Istighfaar refers to seeking forgiveness from Allah, acknowledging one's sins and shortcomings, while tawbaa is a more comprehensive term, encapsulating repentance, regret, and a firm commitment to abstain from sinful actions.


Introduction

The concepts of "istighfaar" and "tawbaa" hold significant importance. Both terms are often used interchangeably, but they encompass distinct meanings within the Islamic framework. This answer aims to unravel the nuanced differences between istighfaar and tawbaa, shedding light on their individual connotations and the role they play in a Muslim's spiritual journey.


Evidences

To delve deeper into these concepts, let's turn to the Quran, Hadith, and the traditional scholars.


Quranic Verses:

  1. "And seek forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful." (Quran 73:20)
  2. "O you who have believed, repent to Allah with sincere repentance. Perhaps your Lord will remove from you your misdeeds." (Quran 66:8)
  3. "And He is the Forgiving, the Affectionate, the Merciful." (Quran 85:14)


​​​​​​​Hadith:

  1. The Prophet (saw) said: "Allah is more pleased with the repentance of His slave than a person who has his camel in a waterless desert carrying his provision of food and drink and it is lost." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
  2. "Regret is repentance." (Sunan Ibn Majah)
  3. "Whoever repents before the sun rises from the west, Allah will forgive him." (Sahih Muslim)


Traditional Scholarly Quotes:

  1. Imam Al-Ghazali: "Repentance is returning from disobedience to obedience."
  2. Imam Ibn Qayyim: "Repentance beautifies the soul and gives it a good fragrance."
  3. Imam Nawawi: "The door of repentance is open, and the sinner can return to Allah at any moment."


Istighfaar vs Tawbaa

Istighfaar focuses on seeking forgiveness for specific sins, while tawbaa goes beyond forgiveness, encompassing a comprehensive transformation of one's life. Istighfaar is a repetitive act, acknowledging constant human fallibility, while tawbaa involves a sincere and deep regret for past mistakes, a firm intention to change, and a commitment to avoid repeating those sins.

A common misconception is treating istighfaar and tawbaa as synonymous. Some may believe that mere verbal acknowledgment of wrongdoing is sufficient for repentance, neglecting the need for sincere remorse and a genuine commitment to change. It's crucial to understand that true repentance involves a holistic approach, engaging the heart, mind, and actions.

Some may argue that constantly seeking forgiveness might lead to a sense of complacency, assuming that their sins will be forgiven without genuine efforts to change. However, Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of sincere repentance and a continuous strive towards self-improvement.

Imam al-Tabari's tafsir observes:

وقَوْلُهُ :( فَاِسْتَغْفَرُوهُ )، يَقُولُ : اِعْمَلُوا عَمَلًا يَكُونُ سَبَبًا لِسَتْرِ اللَّهُِ عَلَيكُمْ ذُنُوبَكُمْ ، وَذَلِكَ الْإيمَانُ بِهِ ، وَإِخْلاَصُ الْعِبَادَةِ لَهُ دُونَ مَا سِوَاهُ ، واتِّبَاعُ رَسُولِهُ صَالِحٌ ،( ثُمَّ تُوبُوا إِلَيه )، يَقُولُ : ثُمَّ اُتْرُكُوا مِنَ الْأَعْمَالِ مَا يَكْرَهُهُ رَبُّكُمْ ، إِلَى مَا يَرْضَاهُ وَيُحِبُّهُ

"Regarding ('Seek his forgiveness..') it is said: Do deeds which will be a means for which God will cover and expiate your sins. That is faith in Him, and sincerity in worship to Him without anything else. And to follow His messenger, Salih. Regarding ('Then turn unto Him..') it is said: Then abandon deeds that your Lord hates, and move towards that which pleases Him and that He loves.."

So (فاستغفروه) means to seek His forgiveness and to engage in deeds that will expiate for your sins and (ثُمَّ تُوبُوا إِلَيْهِ) is to abandon the deeds for which you are seeking forgiveness, and all other iniquitous deeds. That is the only sincere way you will be turning (توبوا) to Him.



Conclusion: Istighfaar and Tawba

In conclusion, istighfaar and tawbaa are interconnected yet distinct concepts in Islam. Istighfaar is seeking forgiveness, while tawbaa is a more profound process involving repentance, regret, and a commitment to positive change. Both are integral to a Muslim's spiritual journey, fostering a continuous effort towards self-improvement and closeness to Allah.


​​​​​​​FAQs:

Q1: Can istighfaar and tawbaa be performed simultaneously?

Yes, they often go hand in hand. Istighfaar is seeking forgiveness for specific sins, and tawbaa involves a broader repentance encompassing lifestyle changes.

Q2: How frequently should one engage in istighfaar?

Istighfaar is encouraged regularly as it acknowledges the constant human propensity to err. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) sought forgiveness numerous times a day.

Q3: Is tawbaa a one-time act?

Tawbaa is an ongoing process. While it starts with a sincere repentance, it extends to a continuous effort to avoid the repetition of sins and improve one's character.


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