In a world increasingly focused on the external—what we wear, where we go, and how we appear to others—the Qur’an offers a profound shift in perspective. Verse 22:32 states:
“And whoever honors the symbols of Allah—indeed, it is from the piety of hearts.”
To a general observer, this might sound like a call to religious ritual. However, a deeper, unbiased look reveals an enlightening psychological and spiritual principle that transcends any single culture: the idea that our respect for the "sacred" is a direct reflection of our internal character.
What are the "Symbols of God"?
The Arabic term used is Sha’a’ir, which literally translates to "signs," "markers," or "symbols." While the verse originally appeared in the context of the Hajj (the pilgrimage to Mecca), scholars of Islamic philosophy explain that these symbols encompass much more than just physical rituals. They include:
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Places of Meaning: Sacred spaces like mosques, or historical sites that remind people of higher purposes.
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Acts of Service: Rituals like prayer, fasting, or charity that serve as physical anchors for spiritual concepts.
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The Natural World: For many, the "symbols" of the Divine are found in the complexity of a forest, the vastness of the ocean, or the intricacies of human biology.
In essence, a "symbol of God" is anything that serves as a bridge between the physical world and a higher spiritual reality.
The "Piety of Hearts": An Internal Compass
The most striking part of the verse is the conclusion: “it is from the piety of hearts.” This suggests that honoring a symbol isn't about the symbol itself, but about the intent of the observer. In a Western philosophical context, this aligns with the idea of "reverence." To have reverence is to recognize that some things are greater than ourselves.
The verse proposes that if a person treats sacred things with mockery or indifference, it isn't the "symbol" that is damaged—it is a sign that the observer’s own "heart" (their internal moral and spiritual compass) has become calloused. Conversely, the act of showing respect—even for a ritual one might not fully understand—is an exercise that softens the heart and cultivates humility.
Why This Matters for the General Reader
Why should this 7th-century verse resonate with someone in a secular or Western society today?
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Mindfulness over Ritual: It challenges the "autopilot" mode of life. It suggests that every action—whether a religious rite or a moment of silence—only has value if it is rooted in a conscious, "pious" heart.
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Respect for the "Other": By defining piety as an internal quality reflected through respect for symbols, the verse encourages a culture of dignity. Even if you don't share someone else's "symbols," honoring their sanctity is seen as a mark of your own high character.
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The Psychology of Sacredness: Psychologists often note that humans need "sacred" spaces and moments to maintain mental well-being. This verse provides a spiritual framework for that need, suggesting that our external environment and our internal peace are deeply intertwined.
The Takeaway
Surah 22:32 isn't a command to follow a list of rules; it is an invitation to look inward. It asks us to consider: What do I hold sacred? How do I treat the things that others hold dear? In the end, honoring the "Symbols of God" is a practice of glorifying the source through the sign. It is a reminder that the most important journey is not the one we take with our feet to a physical location, but the one we take with our hearts toward a state of sincere, humble awareness.
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