Originally posted 2019-08-14 11:32:24.

Nearness To Allah

From the Fruits of Prayer: Nearness to Allah

It is customary for kings to reward and bring close those whom they favor. Even Pharaoh, the tyrant, promised status and nearness to those who pleased him. When the magicians said:

“Will there surely be a reward for us if we are the victors?” (Ash-Shu‘ara 26:41)
He replied:
“Yes, and indeed, you will be among those brought near [to me].” (Al-A‘raf 7:114)

If this is how worldly kings treat their loyal subjects, what then of the King of kings—Allah, the Most Just and the Most Generous?

The Prayer That Draws You Close

One of the greatest fruits of Salah is the closeness it brings to Allah. Yet, not every prayer brings this nearness. People differ in their experiences of prayer—some find it a burden, others find it bliss.

The first type of person is like one who enters the king’s palace but remains behind a thick barrier. Though physically present, his heart is trapped—clouded by desires, worldly distractions, and false hopes. His prayer lacks presence, his limbs may move, but his soul is absent. Prayer becomes a struggle, endured only until it ends, so that he can return to his worldly attachments—where his comfort truly lies.

The Sweetness of True Presence

The second type is like a man who enters the king’s court and finds the barrier lifted. There he stands, seeing the king, overwhelmed by honor and grace. His soul delights in the nearness. He savors every moment in the king’s presence. He does not want to leave.

This is the one whose heart is alive in Salah. He finds joy in reciting Allah’s Words, peace in bowing and prostration, and sweetness in standing in humility. The world fades away as he immerses himself in divine nearness. His limbs are still, his heart fully attentive. He speaks to his Lord and hears His replies in the verses he recites. He worships as though he sees Allah—and that transforms everything.

For him, the greatest sorrow is when the prayer ends. He wishes to remain forever in that sacred moment, bathing in tranquility, embraced by mercy, honored with proximity.

And Allah is the Guide, the Giver, and the Most Near

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Source: The Inner Dimensions of Prayer’s Book.