First, reciting the Qur’aan while pondering over its meanings and what is meant by it.
Second, getting closer to Allaah by performing voluntary deeds after completing obligatory deeds. This is as is stated in a hadeeth qudsi:
“My slave continues getting closer to Me by performing voluntary deeds until I love him.”
Third, continual remembrance of Allaah under all circumstances, with one’s tongue, heart and actions. The extent of one’s love of Allaah is determined by this.
Fourth, giving precedence to what He loves over what you love when you are overtaken by your desires.
Fifth, the heart being avid of Allaah’s Names, and Attributes and the heart roaming in that garden of knowledge.
Sixth, observing Allaah’s kindness, goodness and bounties, both hidden and open.
Seventh, and this is the most wonderful, the heart being soft, subdued and meek before Allaah.
Eighth, being alone with Allaah during the time when the Lord descends during the last portion of the night while reading His Book and ending that by asking for forgiveness and repenting.
Ninth, sitting with the beloved and sincere, benefiting from the most fruitful of their speech. And not to speak unless speaking is more beneficial and you know that it will improve your state and be beneficial to others.
Tenth, remaining away from every cause that comes between the heart and Allaah.
From: Madarij as-Saalikeen (3/17-18) by Ibnul-Qayyim al-Jawziyyah
