Tazkirah

Tazkirah #1

It is narrated on the authority of Amir al-Mu'minin (Leader of the Believers), Abu Hafs 'Umar bin al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him), who said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him), say:

"Actions are according to intentions, and everyone will get what was intended."

This particular hadith is a hadith that can always make us ponder upon our actions. For Allah s.w.t is All Knowing for what is revealed and is concealed.

In seeking knowledge, every one of us should put our niyyah, "Lillahitaala" thus everything that we gained is full of barakah.

Tazkirah #2

Ikhlas

What is Ikhlas?

Ikhlas is to do everything, internal and external, only desiring the pleasure of Allah. It is to forget the eyes of the people, and whether they view your deeds or not, with the only thing on your mind that Allah is watching you. 
Ikhlas is significant in all of our deeds. 

Some scholars said that this is why people vary in grades (in the sight of Allah); it is in accordance to the intentions behind their actions, not because of merely fasting and praying. Imam Ibn Rajab said:

Know that performing deeds for other than Allah is of different types. Sometimes, this action might be to show off in its entirety, and thus, one seeks to be seen by the creation for a worldly gain. For example, this is the state that the hypocrites pray in. Allah describes them as follows:

"…And when they stand up for As-Salat (the prayer), they stand with laziness and to be seen of men, and they do not remember Allah but little…" (Surah An-Nisa: 142)

Allah also described some as follows:

"…And be not like those who come out of their homes boastfully and to be seen of men…" (Surah Al-Anfal:47)

Thus, in the of context seeking knowledge, us students have to instill Ikhlas in our heart. By having one sole purpose to serve Allah, the path and journey of seeking knowledge might become easier, with Allah's will.