Following
Desires
The following paragraph is a
translation of a section of Ibn al_Qayyim's Al-Fawaaid
'Unlawful desires are usually associated with ugliness. They leave behind a
lingering sensation of pain and guilt. Hence, whenever you are tempted, think
about liberating yourself. Think about all the remorse that would accompany the realization
of those desires, and then make up your mind. Struggling your way through
obedience is not an easy task. It is, however, associated with goodness and
soothing pleasures. Whenever you overburden yourself (with unlawful desires)
think about how nice it would be to repent and set yourself free. Think about
the pleasures that lawful desires will provide and try to make the correct
choice. The dilemma you will experience should be reduced by remembering the
sweet pleasure and the ultimate happiness that your obedience (to Allah) will
provide. Also make your struggle less of one by picturing the punishment that
follows disobedience to Allah. Logically your mind should opt for the more
rewarding option and help you to endure the pain of denying yourself the realization
of such desires.'
