We often are bombarded with various external stimuli that seek our attention, especially in today’s day and age — one has become constantly accessible via electronic devices and internet connections that our human race was not previously accustomed to. Hence, there is limited opportunity to isolate oneself, even if only for a brief period of time. If we dig deep within our history, however, we will find examples of the pious before us seeking periods of isolation and reaping goodness from it, be it the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, Maryam the mother of ‘Isa, Hajar the mother of Isma’il, or Imam Ghazali, may Allah ﷻ be pleased with all of them. Seclusion creates the opportunity to clear one’s mind and grow one’s heart. Periodic seclusion, or isolation from “noise”, is a practice that is practiced in many faiths and cultures, and is being touted in contemporary lifestyles and promoted in corporate workplaces. The benefit in adopting this practice for the believer is that, through it, they will develop clarity of mind, resulting in a wholesome experience in this life and, more importantly, will experience growth of the heart, which will result in a passion for the deen, a deep connection with Allah ﷻ, and access to the hidden treasures of this deen.
