Al-Khawf (The Fear of Allah)
By Imam Ibn Qudamah al-Maqdisi

Allah, the Most High, praises those who possess the noble quality of fear and humility before Him, saying:

“And such (are the believers) who are humbled by the fear of their Lord.”
— [Surah Al-Mu’minun, 57]

The element of fear (khawf) is inherent within every human being, but when this fear is directed toward Allah, it becomes a guiding light that shields the heart from sin, temptation, and heedlessness. It purifies the soul, restrains wrongdoing, and detaches one from the false glitter of worldly desires.

However, when fear exceeds its proper balance, it can lead to hopelessness and despair, which are equally blameworthy. Thus, fear is not the goal itself — rather, it is a means toward attaining true faith, repentance, and success.

“… Fear Me alone, if you are believers.”
— [Surah Āl-‘Imrān, 175]

In this concise yet profound treatise, Imam Ibn Qudamah, one of the greatest scholars of Islam and author of authoritative works in Hanbali jurisprudence and theology, presents a deeply moving exploration of the concept of fearing Allah (Al-Khawf).

He explains:

• The reality and virtues of fear in Islam.

• Its different levels and types.

• The cures and practices that cultivate sincere fear of Allah.

• The causes of spiritual decline and bad endings faced by those who neglect it.

Through vivid examples from the lives of the Prophets, Angels, and the righteous predecessors, Ibn Qudamah captures the essence of what it means to live in awe and reverence of Allah — the kind of fear that leads not to despair, but to hope, discipline, and closeness to the Creator.

This timeless classic is a gentle reminder and a mirror for every believer’s heart — helping us rekindle the humility, awareness, and balance that lead to true success in this world and the Hereafter.