The Essence of Islam – Volume II — Page 246
246 Essence of Islām II Remember, the Muslims have been bestowed two things; one for obtaining strength and the other for the practical demonstration of the strength that has been obtained. Istighfar is for obtaining strength. It is also called seeking help. The Sufis have said that as physical strength and power is fostered through exercise, in the same way, Istighfar is spiritual exercise. Through it, the soul obtains strength and the heart achieves steadfastness. He who desires strength should do Istighfar. [Malfūzāt, vol. II, p. 67] Gates of God's Grace are Never Closed The gates of the grace and benevolence of God Almighty are never closed. If a person turns to Him with a true heart and in sincerity, then He is Forgiving and Merciful and accepts repentance. It is great impertinence and disrespect to speculate how many sinners will God Almighty forgive. The treasures of His mercy are unlim- ited. He lacks nothing and His doors are not shut upon. All those who arrive before God shall attain high ranks. This is a sure promise. The one who despairs of God Almighty, and his last moment arrives in a state of heedlessness, is most unfortunate and ill-fated because at that time the door is closed. [Malfūzāt, vol. III, pp. 296-297] There are some people who are aware of sin and there are others who are not even aware of it. That is why God Almighty has prescribed Istighfar in all circumstances so that man should occupy himself with Istighfar with regard to all sins, whether external or internal, and whether he has knowledge of them or not. A person should seek forgiveness for every type of sin whether of the hands, or of feet, or of tongue, or of nose, or of ears,