Multiple rewards for a good deed and initiative make Islam a unique religion. As in Islam good deeds are always recommended for the believers, it also emphasises taking good initiatives for the betterment of the human and the world as well. For many reasons, the reward for a good initiative is many times more than a good deed.

The Qur’an emphasises the rewards for righteous deeds, serving as a source of inspiration and encouragement for believers. Allah states, “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like that of a grain of corn that sprouts seven ears, and in every ear, there are a hundred grains. Thus, Allah multiplies the action of whomsoever He wills.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:261). Meaning that, if you spend for the cause of Allah, you will be rewarded many more in various ways. Sometimes we also realise that we are getting something good without having any notable reason. This is the blessing of Allah as the reward of a good deed in this world.

In the hereafter, multiple rewards also will be given to the good-doers on the day of Judgement. If we look at the Qur’an, we can find three ayats speaking on the rewards of good initiatives directly. These are:

(i) “Whoever comes [on the Day of Judgement] with a good deed will have ten times the like thereof [to his credit], and whoever comes with an evil deed will not be recompensed except the like thereof; and they will not be wronged. (Surah al-An’am, 6:160),

 (ii) “Whoever comes [at Judgement] with a good deed will have better than it, and they, from the terror of that Day, will be safe. (Surah an-Naml, 27:89), and

(iii) Whoever comes [on the Day of Judgement] with a good deed will have better than it; and whoever comes with an evil deed - then those who did evil deeds will not be recompensed except [as much as] what they used to do. (Surah al-Qasas, 28: 84).

Based on these ayats, it can be stated that Islam has offered attractive rewards for any good deed to its believers that will be awarded on the day of Judgement. As we know any reward on the Day of Judgment is the most valuable asset of a true believer, and nothing can be compared with that. Therefore, getting ten times more rewards for any good deed will be the happiest moment for a believer. On the other hand, it declares that a bad deed has punishment equivalent to what somebody used to do.

Furthermore, the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) complements the teachings of the Qur’an, providing practical examples and explanations of its principles. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through his sayings and actions emphasised the significance of good deeds and initiatives and their rewards.

Although, the good deed has many times more rewards, a good initiative earns more than that. It brings multi-level benefits both in earthly life and the afterlife. According to a popular Hadith narrated by Abu Huraira (R.), the Prophet (PBUH) said, “When a person dies, his deeds come to an end except three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who prays for him.” (Sahih Muslim). It proves that there are such works which can bring benefit for a long time even till the Final day. The person who takes that initiative can benefit even after his death. How unique opportunity has been given in Islam for its believers.

It is noteworthy to state that, in both cases, the intention is very much important because, in Islam, the reward depends not only on the deed but also on its intention. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasised the importance of sincerity and intention in all actions. He said, “Actions are judged by intentions, and everyone will be rewarded according to their intention.”  (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith no. 01). Therefore, purity of heart and sincerity in doing anything good is very much significant in earning rewards from Allah. It teaches believers that the intention behind their deeds is crucial, as Allah rewards them not only for the action itself but also for the sincerity of their motives.

In addition to major acts of charity and righteousness, Islam also encourages believers to engage in small acts of kindness and compassion in their daily lives. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also said, “Do not belittle any good deed, even meeting your brother with a cheerful face.” (Sahih Muslim). Thus, the value of even the simplest acts of kindness, reminding Muslims that every positive action no matter how small, carries weight in the sight of Allah and earns His rewards.

It should be kept in mind that blessings await those who engage in righteous deeds, underscoring the importance of sincerity, intention and consistency in earning rewards from Allah. As believers, Muslims are encouraged to actively participate in acts of goodness, knowing that their efforts will be generously rewarded by the Most Merciful. May Allah bless us to do so! 

______________________________________________

The writer is a scholar in Islamic studies and researcher on Islamic views on contemporary issues. Email: [email protected]