How can the heart be humble and soft?

To attain a humble and tender heart, one must fulfill obligations, abstain from prohibitions, avoid doubtful matters, and increase voluntary acts of worship such as night prayers and voluntary fasting. One must also train in humility during prayer, for it is its spirit. Allah has praised the believers who are humble in their prayers, describing them as successful, and one should ponder Allah's greatness therein. Furthermore, one should continuously engage in the remembrance of Allah Almighty in all circumstances, for dhikr connects the heart to Allah and makes it tender, affected by admonition. Increasing the recitation of the Quran with contemplation of its meanings and acting upon them is also essential, for it is a healing for hearts. Similarly, one should clear the heart of worldly concerns as much as possible. Finally, one must supplicate to Allah Almighty with earnestness and persistence, seeking refuge in Him from hardness of heart. The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, was asked, "O Allah, Turner of hearts, turn our hearts to Your obedience."