Does worshipping Allah with the intention of entering Paradise and avoiding Hell invalidate one’s deeds?
Whoever worships Allah seeking Paradise and salvation from Hell, their action is not invalid, but they have erred in their intention; because Allah deserves worship for His own sake, and deeds alone do not save a servant from Hell, rather one is saved by Allah's mercy. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "No one among you will be saved by his deeds." And Ibn Hazm said: "No one will enter Paradise by his deeds alone, without the mercy of Allah the Almighty." Al-Manawi mentioned that worship has levels: seeking reward, being honored by worship, and worshipping Allah because He is God and you are His servant, which is the highest level.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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