Ayatullah Murtaza Mutahhari discusses taqwa not as a passive or isolated spiritual state, but as a dynamic moral power that shapes an individual's entire personality, behaviour, worldview, and social conduct. In his philosophical and ethical writings, he presents taqwa as the central pillar of human self-building, rooted in the Qur’an, the life of the Prophet (s), and the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt (a).
1. Meaning of Taqwa
Mutahhari emphasizes that taqwa is far more than the usual translation of “piety” or “fear of God.”
It is:
He explains that the word taqwa comes from wiqayah—a shield. Thus, taqwa is the ability to guard the self against anything that distances it from truth, justice, and divine proximity.
2. Taqwa as a Form of Inner Power
Mutahhari argues that a person with taqwa is not weak or withdrawn, but someone endowed with:
For him, taqwa is the source of true human freedom, because it liberates a person from internal chains—ego, greed, anger, arrogance—and external domination.
3. Two Dimensions of Taqwa
Mutahhari often describes taqwa in two interconnected dimensions:
a. Negative (Protective) Taqwa
Avoiding sin, staying away from moral corruption, disciplining behaviour.
This is the basic level—like a soldier guarding a fortress.
b. Positive (Constructive) Taqwa
Actively doing good, striving for justice, serving society, and elevating the self.
This is higher taqwa—the power to transform oneself and the world.
He stresses that Islam wants both: purity of the soul and productivity of the soul.
4. Taqwa and Human Perfection
Mutahhari’s ethical philosophy revolves around kamaal-e-insani (human perfection).
Taqwa is the engine of this perfection, because:
Without taqwa, a human being becomes a victim of chaotic desires; with taqwa, they become aligned with divine purpose.
5. Taqwa and Society
Mutahhari strongly connects personal ethics with social ethics.
A society built on taqwa becomes a society of:
He notes that Islamic movements and revolutions rely not merely on political slogans but on inner integrity, which only taqwa can produce.
6. Qur’anic Foundations
Mutahhari frequently cites verses such as:
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“Indeed, the most honorable of you in the sight of Allah is the one with the most taqwa.”
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“And whoever has taqwa of Allah, He will provide for him a way out…”
He presents these verses to show that taqwa is a criterion of human worth, not lineage, wealth, or status.
7. Taqwa as a Lifelong Journey
Finally, Mutahhari emphasizes that taqwa is not a sudden achievement but a continuous spiritual journey—strengthened through:
It is the gradual building of a spiritual shield that grows stronger with each conscious choice.
