Follow Your Heart???

Umar ibn Khattab ra said: "We judge people based on their deeds without going into their intentions."

Meaning: don't make a decision for, or against a person, until you have something tangible. How often a person is abandoned by another based on the latter's feeling instead of tangible evidence? Not only is it wrong. But it is harmful and it could mask a subtle sense of pride on the part of the person who, in all their arrogance, trust their heart - with no clear proof - to guide them to another person's true state!

In an age of hyper narcissism, trusting ones heart can mask an infinite number of spiritual ills. The heart is conditioned by the knowledge we acquired. Follow your heart when it is supported by revelation and the Sunnah of the Prophet(pbuh).

We should consult our hearts if we possess the adequate knowledge. Meaning, if our hearts tell us to do something that contradicts with the revelation, the Sunnah of the Prophet(pbuh) and the opinions of the learned scholars(in religious affairs), we should ignore our hearts and obey the wise. If we were to seek the advice of a religious person, there are 5 conditions that we must be aware of:

1. His advice should not contradict revelation.

2. He should have some familiarity with the topic - in some cases expertise is required.

3. It should not contradict common sense.

4. The person being consulted should not have an interest in your decision - a conflict of interest.

5. You do not allow their dress, appearance or fame to blind you. What can be worn is not the same as what is learned and understood.

All five of these conditions, when met, allow us to trust a person's heart.

Wallahu'alam
By: Imam Suhaib Webb