— Ayesha Sultana
In today’s world, love is often reduced to fleeting emotions, grand gestures, and commercialized celebrations like Valentine’s Day. The media promotes a version of love that is shallow, materialistic, and centered on desires. However, Islam teaches us that love is not about momentary passion or extravagant displays—it is about sincerity, commitment, and righteousness. True love goes beyond roses and romance; it is rooted in faith, loyalty, and the pursuit of Allah’s pleasure.
The Reality of Love in Islam
In Islam, love is not something to be exploited or confined to temporary attractions. It is a sacred bond that strengthens relationships, nourishes the soul, and brings one closer to Allah. The love between a husband and wife, the love for parents and children, and the love for fellow believers are all built upon the foundation of sincerity, respect, and responsibility.
Allah ﷻ says in the Quran:
“And among His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in that are signs for a people who reflect.” (Surah Ar-Rum 30:21)
This verse reminds us that love is meant to bring peace and mercy, not superficial excitement that fades away with time. The relationships we form should be grounded in sincerity and a commitment to righteousness rather than fleeting passions influenced by society’s trends.
Love and Modesty: A Divine Balance
One of the greatest gifts of Islam is the emphasis on modesty and honor in relationships. Islam does not prohibit love; rather, it directs it in a manner that preserves dignity. The Prophet ﷺ taught us that the most blessed love is one that is lawful, pure, and nurtured through marriage. The idea of casual relationships, dating, and secret encounters—often encouraged by events like Valentine’s Day—are foreign to the teachings of Islam.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“When a man marries, he has fulfilled half of his religion, so let him fear Allah regarding the remaining half.” (Tirmidhi)
This hadith highlights that true love is not found in momentary pleasures but in a lifelong commitment built on faith, responsibility, and sacrifice. Marriage is not merely about romance; it is about working together towards a common goal—pleasing Allah and building a righteous family.
Rejecting the Illusions of Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day promotes a version of love that is often rooted in desires rather than responsibility. It encourages relationships that lack commitment and sincerity while being heavily influenced by Western commercialism. Islam teaches us to guard our hearts and uphold our dignity rather than chase after fleeting emotions.
The Prophet ﷺ advised:
“Beware! There is a piece of flesh in the body, if it becomes good (reformed), the whole body becomes good; but if it gets corrupted, the whole body gets corrupted. That piece of flesh is the heart.” (Bukhari)
Instead of getting carried away by societal pressures, Muslims should focus on purifying their hearts and seeking love in the manner that pleases Allah. True love is not about chocolates and flowers—it is about sacrifice, patience, and loyalty in the path of Allah.
Embracing Pure Love: The Islamic Way
Love Allah first: The greatest love a believer can have is for Allah. When love for Allah is firm, all other relationships fall into place.
Seek halal relationships: Avoid unlawful attachments and focus on relationships that are blessed by Allah through marriage.
Value modesty: Modesty protects love and keeps it pure. It prevents one from being deceived by the temporary and instead focuses on what is eternal.
Strengthen family ties: Instead of following Western traditions, invest in loving your family, your spouse, and your children through acts of kindness and sincerity.
Remember the Hereafter: A love that brings you closer to Jannah is the only love worth striving for.
Conclusion
Love is a divine gift, but it must be nurtured with faith and sincerity. Beyond the glitter of commercialized romance, true love is found in honoring commitments, respecting boundaries, and seeking the pleasure of Allah. As Muslims, we must rise above societal influences and embrace a love that is pure, modest, and eternal.
This Valentine’s Day, let us rediscover love in its truest form—not in fleeting moments, but in the light of faith.
