– Hidden riyaʾ, by contrast, does not initiate the deed; yet the presence of people makes it easier for one to perform, and it may be so subtle that it calls for no spoken display, showing itself only through one’s bearing and outward manner.
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From what has already been said we know that riyaʾ nullifies deeds, brings Allah’s wrath, and ranks among the deadly vices. Anyone afflicted by it must therefore gird himself in all seriousness to uproot and treat it, wrenching its roots from the heart if it is already there and repelling every passing thought of it the moment it appears.
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The people of true sincerity have always feared the hidden form of riyaʾ. They go to great lengths to conceal their righteous works, guarding them more jealously than others guard their scandals, all in hope that their deeds will stay pure so that Allah will reward them on the Day of Resurrection for their sincerity.
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Keeping one’s deeds secret safeguards sincerity and delivers one from riyaʾ. Al-Hasan said, “Muslims know that secrecy preserves a deed, yet making it public also has the benefit of providing a good example.” For this reason Allah praised both secrecy and openness, saying: “If you disclose your charity, it is good; but if you conceal it and give it to the poor, that is better for you” (Qurʾan 2:271).
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A person may feel energized for worship when he sees others devoting themselves to it, and he may think this is riyaʾ. That is not necessarily the case. A believer naturally yearns to worship, yet work, overpowering desires, and heedlessness may hold him back. Observing others dispels heedlessness and, in some situations, removes those obstacles, awakening his resolve. The believer should keep his heart certain that Allah is fully aware of all his acts of obedience.