In the rhythm of our daily routines, the true sequence to keep in mind is simple yet profound; to remain in a default state of presence with Allah. Living in Awareness of Allah When the heart is anchored in remembrance, everything else aligns naturally. This inner orientation safeguards us from deviation and confusion, guiding our thoughts, words, actions, and emotions to revolve around divine awareness rather than worldly distractions (Taqwa). This is the dynamic stability we should all seek.
The two inner states of the spiritual heart (qalb) are often described: wus‘at‑e‑qalb , an expansion of the heart, and qabz‑e‑qalb a constriction of the heart. The qalb is not merely an organ but the subtle center of intention, faith, and turning toward Allah. Its condition determines the direction of one’s spiritual state.
Wus‘at‑e‑qalb, linguistically meaning an expansive or spacious heart, refers to a state of serenity in which the heart is open to divine illumination. Spiritually, it signifies generosity, tolerance, and deep contentment with Allah’s decree. A heart in this state feels at ease. It trusts divine providence, rests in gratitude, and does not feel anxious about sustenance, status, or control. The believer moves through life with quiet confidence, knowing that every outcome unfolds under divine wisdom.
In contrast, qabz‑e‑qalb describes moments of inner tightening — when the heart feels heavy, worship becomes dry, and remembrance feels distant. This state is not always negative; it can be a warid, a divine visitation meant to humble the servant and refine sincerity. Yet if a person responds to this constriction by relying solely on their own efforts or falling into despair, the heart begins to turn away from its true source of refuge. This dependence on self instead of Allah becomes a hidden form of shirk in reliance.
The key lies in tawakkul trusting Allah equally in both expansion and constriction. The qalbun salim (26:90), or sound heart, perceives both states as coming from Him. Neither joy inflates it with pride, nor difficulty deflates it with hopelessness. Such a heart remains centered, aware, and unshaken because its axis is divine remembrance, not emotional fluctuation. The Promised Messiah(as) says:
therefore, it is narrated in a Hadith: istaftika qalbak. Meaning, seek a verdict from your heart. One has not been instructed to seek a verdict from one’s brain. It is the heart with which the line of divinity is linked.
To live in the presence of Allah is to carry this awareness throughout the day : breathing, working, speaking, and resting in a quiet acknowledgment that every moment is His domain. Whether the heart feels light or weighed down, both are invitations to return to Him. The true balance is not in controlling these inner states, but in remaining conscious of their source.
When the believer trains the heart to be in this constant awareness, every act, no matter how small , becomes an expression of worship, and every state becomes a mirror of divine proximity.