Reference: http://www.alfawzan.af.org.sa/node/15415
Question: What is the meaning of ‘ikhlaas’ (sincerity), and what is the ruling if the worshipper intends [for] something other [than Allaah] with his worship?
Response: The meaning of sincerity is to be free and pure from shirk (associating partners in worship with Allaah), and that the action of a person, as well as his intention and motive are sincerely for the Face of Allaah ‘Azza wa Jall – without any shirk, nor showing off or seeking repute, and nor is there any intention [this action is] for other than Allaah, and nor does he seek by it anything of this world, nor praise from the people. Rather, the act is [purely and] sincerely for the Face of Allaah ‘Azza wa Jall [alone], because Allaah does not accept any actions which are not done [purely and] sincerely for His Face alone.
