Istiqomah is Consistency in the Path of Allah: Definition, Evidence, Virtues, Examples, and Benefits

Istiqomah has several virtues for Muslims who practice it. Among the virtues of istiqomah are as follows:

In a verse in the Quran, Allah says that a Muslim who remains istiqomah in His path will always be provided with abundant sustenance. This is stated in Surah Al-Jin verse 16, which means:

“And indeed, if they had remained straight on the way (of Islam), We would have given them abundant provision.

The second virtue is being granted peace and having all sorrows lifted. Allah will grant peace and tranquility to those who are always istiqomah in His path. This is in accordance with the Quran, Surah Fushilat verse 30.

The Guarantee of Heaven for Those who are Steadfast

When someone is able to perform their worship activities consistently, they will receive the virtue of paradise as stated in the words of Allah in Surah Fussilat, verse 30, which means:

“Indeed, those who say, “Our Lord is Allah,” and then remain steadfast - the angels will descend upon them, saying, “Do not fear and do not grieve but receive good tidings of Paradise, which you were promised.”

The guarantee of paradise for those who worship with steadfastness is also mentioned in Surah Al-Ahqaf, verses 13-14, which means:

“Indeed, those who have said, “Our Lord is Allah,” and then remained on a right course - there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve. Those are the companions of Paradise, abiding eternally therein as reward for what they used to do.”

Actions Loved by Allah SWT

Steadfastness is an action that is consistently carried out on the right path. Although the good deed is small, if it is done consistently, it will be better than many deeds that are rarely done.

Such actions are loved by Allah SWT as stated in a hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):

“Do what is right and good, and the most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are continuous even if they are few.” (Narrated by Bukhari).

Examples of Implementing Steadfastness in Life

Implementing steadfastness is highly recommended for Muslims, especially in daily life, especially in worship and social activities.

By implementing steadfastness, you will feel lighter when performing worship because you feel no burden. Here are some examples of implementing steadfastness in daily life:

1. Always obeying the commandments of Allah SWT and avoiding His prohibitions in any condition.
2. Performing the five daily prayers.
3. Continuously learning and engaging in acts of goodness.
4. Always obeying rules, whether at home, school, or in the community.
5. Performing obligations with joy and comfort, without feeling forced or burdened.

Prayer for Steadfastness on the Path of Allah SWT

رَبَّنَا لَا تُزِغْ قُلُوبَنَا بَعْدَ إِذْ هَدَيْتَنَا وَهَبْ لَنَا مِنْ لَدُنْكَ رَحْمَةً ۚ إِنَّكَ أَنْتَ الْوَهَّابُ

Rabbana laa tuzigh quluubanaa ba’da idz hadaitanaa wahablanaa min ladunka rahmah innaka antal wahhab.

Meaning: "Our Lord, do not let our hearts deviate after You have guided us and grant us from Yourself mercy. Indeed, You are the Bestower."

5 Benefits of Steadfastness for Character Formation

Steadfastness is something important for daily life, including in the formation of a better character. If you are accustomed to being steadfast in goodness, including worship, work, learning, and others, it will make you have an integral and disciplined character.

Although it is difficult to be steadfast, nevertheless we must strive hard to achieve it. Because being steadfast will provide extraordinary benefits for oneself. Here are some benefits of steadfastness that you need to know for character formation:

1. Discipline and Self-Control

The benefit of steadfastness certainly affects discipline and self-control. If someone is accustomed to consistently doing good things, then they will not let themselves deviate from the path they should take. Gradually, a person will become more disciplined in their daily life. Both in terms of worship, work, and other good deeds.

2. A Person with Integrity

The benefit of steadfastness is that it can make a person have integrity. In essence, the meaning of steadfastness is closely related to honesty. Steadfastness will make a person more trustworthy because of their consistent behavior.

3. Boosting Self-Confidence

Not only is a steadfast person trusted by others, but the benefit of steadfastness for an individual is that it can boost self-confidence. This can motivate a person to achieve their goals, which will help them reach bigger and more challenging objectives.

4. Creating Accountability

Steadfastness will also create accountability in the individual. The results you achieve indicate the level of someone's consistency. When you know that you are deviating from the right path, your brain will respond that it should not be done, so you will hold yourself accountable. It means you are trying to align your thoughts, words, and actions to continue progressing and doing good.

5. Stand Out from Others

Istiqomah is a small repeated action that produces something great in the long run. For example, if you are consistent in performing the Dhuha prayer, it becomes a distinguishing factor between you and someone who is not consistent in performing it. Additionally, if you are consistent in waking up for the night prayer (Tahajjud), your body will automatically do it without being asked. This is what makes you stand out in the eyes of Allah SWT.