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Is it true that one feels betrayed when performing good deeds (such as embracing one's mother or speaking kindly to friends) with a pure intention for God, not for them? And is one rewarded for such deeds if done for them, not for God? Or should one continue doing them for the sake of God?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

Kindness to one's mother, family, and friends, seeking the countenance of Allah, is an act of trustworthiness, not betrayal. It is a righteous deed that brings goodness and blessings.

One must strive to be kind, seeking the countenance of Allah, and not pay attention to whispers (waswas). For doing good is a righteous act, even if one is momentarily heedless of the intention. However, by correcting the intention and seeking reward, the recompense becomes greater, in accordance with His, the Almighty's, saying: ﴿There is no good in much of their private conversation, except for whoever enjoins charity or good or reconciliation between people. And whoever does that seeking means to the approval of Allah - We will give him a great reward.﴾ (An-Nisa: 114). Thus, the completeness of the reward is according to the intention and sincerity.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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