Letter: Each day shaytaan seems to be overpowering me even more. I have been troubled for one entire year. When I sit to recite Quraan or when I commence my salaah, then too shaytaan overpowers me. If a beautiful woman has to pass, then I cannot help but to look at her. I am helpless when it comes to falling into arguments, lies, backbiting and enmity. Due to all these issues, I do not get a peaceful sleep and I am always distressed and troubled. Please show me a remedy through which Allah Ta’ala will relieve me of my troubles.
Reply: Sit in solitude with your eyes closed and ponder for some time that Allah Ta’ala is fully aware of every move you make. He is even aware of the intentions in your heart and the glance of the eye.
يَعْلَمُ خَائِنَةَ الْأَعْيُنِ وَمَا تُخْفِي الصُّدُورُ ﴿غافر: ١٩﴾
“He (Allah Ta’ala) knows the deceit of the eyes and all that which the heart conceals.”
Continue to practise on this to the extent that this remains present in front of you at all times. Furthermore, whichever sin you have a desire to commit, keep in mind the punishment for that sin and insha-Allah this will protect you from committing that evil. (Maktoobaat vol. 5, pg. 28)