So much of our lives is broadcasted on social media, it’s easy to feel pressured to perform good deeds publicly.
The desire to impress others, to gather likes and positive comments, can sometimes overshadow the genuine intent behind our actions.
However, there is a beautiful Japanese concept that offers an alternative approach—Intoku.
Intoku: The Virtue of Hidden Goodness
Intoku, loosely translated, means “doing good in secret.” It is the practice of performing acts of kindness and virtue without seeking recognition or praise.
This concept encourages us to focus on the purity of our intentions, rather than the external validation we might receive.
This morning; I read about this term and felt the urge to share it, hoping it might resonate with others as it did with me.
As an introvert who often finds the spotlight uncomfortable, the idea of Intoku aligns perfectly with my personal beliefs and practices. For me, the most fulfilling acts are those done quietly, sincerely, and for the sake of Allah.
Living Intoku in Everyday Life
In our daily lives, it’s easy to fall into the trap of doing things for show. Whether it’s sharing our achievements on social media or participating in charity events, the desire to impress can sometimes taint the sincerity of our actions.
However, Intoku invites us to shift our focus inward, to cultivate goodness for its own sake.
Practicing Intoku can be as simple as:
- Helping a colleague with their workload without mentioning it to others.
- Donating to a cause anonymously.
- Performing random acts of kindness, like paying for someone’s meal, without seeking acknowledgement.
For introverts like myself, Intoku offers a way to engage in meaningful acts without the added pressure of public recognition.
It’s a form of silent altruism that allows us to contribute positively to the world while staying true to our nature.
The satisfaction comes not from external accolades, but from the internal knowledge that we’ve done something good, purely for the sake of doing good.
Intoku and Spiritual Fulfillment
For those of us who perform good deeds with a spiritual intent, Intoku can be a powerful practice.
Doing good in secret aligns with the teachings of many spiritual traditions, including Islam.
In my own experience, acts performed solely for Allah, without seeking human approval, feel more profound and fulfilling.
Tasawuf: The Islamic Path of Inner Purification
Tasawuf, is the inner, mystical dimension of Islam. It emphasizes the purification of the soul, sincerity in worship, and the cultivation of an intimate relationship with Allah.
One of the key principles of Tasawuf is to perform acts of worship and good deeds solely for the pleasure of Allah, without seeking recognition from others.
This aligns closely with the concept of Intoku.
In Tasawuf, believers are encouraged to engage in “ikhlas” (sincerity), ensuring that their intentions are pure and solely for Allah. This includes performing good deeds in secret, a practice that is highly esteemed in Islamic teachings.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The best of charity is that which the right hand gives, and the left hand does not know of” (Bukhari).
This hadith encapsulates the essence of both Intoku and Tasawuf—doing good without seeking praise or recognition.
Intoku and Tasawuf: A Harmonious Connection
The practice of Intoku complements the principles of Tasawuf beautifully. Both emphasize the importance of inner purity and the sincerity of actions.
By incorporating Intoku into our lives, we can enhance our spiritual journey, aligning our deeds with the teachings of Tasawuf. This harmony between a Japanese concept and Islamic spirituality highlights the universal nature of sincere, selfless acts.
Embracing Intoku and Tasawuf in a Public World
In a society that often values public display over private virtue, embracing Intoku and Tasawuf can be both challenging and liberating.
They remind us that the most impactful acts are often those unseen by others, done quietly and sincerely. By integrating these principles into our lives, we can cultivate a deeper sense of personal integrity and spiritual fulfillment.
So, the next time you feel the urge to impress others with your good deeds, consider practicing Intoku and Tasawuf instead. Perform a kind act in secret and relish the quiet joy it brings, knowing that true virtue doesn’t need an audience, and that your reward lies with Allah.
