The Definition Of Taqwa

On one occasion, Hazrat Umar bin Khattaab (Radhiyallahu ‘Anhu) asked Hazrat Ubayy bin Ka’b (Radhiyallahu ‘Anhu) to explain the essence of Taqwa. In reply, Hazrat Ubayy bin Ka’b (Radhiyallahu ‘Anhu) asked; “Have you ever travelled along a path filled with thorns?” When Hazrat Umar bin Khattaab (Radhiyallahu ‘Anhu) answered in the affirmative, Hazrat Ubayy (Radhiyallahu ‘Anhu) asked; “How did you conduct yourself when travelling on this path?” Hazrat Umar (Radhiyallahu ‘Anhu) responded; “I lifted and held onto my garment (so that it would not get caught in the thorns) and I walked with extreme caution (trying my best to avoid being pricked by the thorns).” Hazrat Ubayy bin Ka’b (Radhiyallahu ‘Anhu) concluded; “That exactly is Taqwa.”

(Tafseer ibn Katheer Vol 1, page 255)