In the past the people asked a man from the Salaf, “Described to us al-Taqwá, tell us what al-Taqwá means.” He said, “It is to act upon the obedience of Allāh, tabaaraka wa Taʿālá. And you hope for the mercy of Allāh, tabaaraka wa Taʿālá, upon the light the guidance of Allāh tabaaraka wa Taʿālá, and staying away from sins.”