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Bird Quote by Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyya

“The heart, in its journey to Allah, Majestic is He, is like that of a bird; Love is its head, and fear and hope are its two wings. When the head and two wings are sound, the bird flies gracefully; if the head is severed, the bird dies; if the bird loses one of its wings, it then becomes a target…” quote by Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyya
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“The heart, in its journey to Allah, Majestic is He, is like that of a bird; Love is its head, and fear and hope are its two wings. When the head and two wings are sound, the bird flies gracefully; if the head is severed, the bird dies; if the bird loses one of its wings, it then becomes a target for every hunter or predator.”

Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyya

About This Quote

Source Treatise: Al-Fawaid al-Majmu‘ah, Ibn Qayyim Al‑Jawziyya, 13th century

The soul’s relationship with God is likened to a bird whose head is love and whose wings are fear and hope; balance lets it soar, loss leads to ruin.

In simple terms: Love guides, fear and hope sustain; imbalance harms.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate love, balance fear and hope.

Themes

spirituality balance trust

Mood

contemplative hopeful

Type

mystical didactic

When to use this quote

  • prayer
  • personal reflection
  • overcoming anxiety
  • seeking purpose

Key Concepts

Islamic mysticism psychology of faith

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you nurture love while managing fear?
  • What does a balanced heart look like in daily life?
A Different Perspective

If fear overwhelms hope, the soul may stall despite love.

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