What is the difference between Taqwa and Hayaa?

There are numerous definitions of Taqwa provided by the Ulama and Mashaaikh, but we will simply provide the crux of the meaning of “Taqwa” to simplify the matter and avoid any further complication. “Taqwa” simply refers to being conscious of Almighty Allah at all times and in all places, and subsequently, one obeys the commands of Allah and refrains from the disobedience of Allah Ta’ala. This is the crux of “Taqwa”.

“Hayaa” is when a person ponders over the bounties and favours of Almighty Allah upon him and his disobedience to Allah; the feeling created within one to obey Allah Ta’ala is referred to as “Hayaa”. When this quality of “Hayaa” is within a person, then obeying Allah Ta’ala becomes simple, while loss of “Hayaa” could cause one to reach a stage that is lower than animals.

From the two explanations above, we conclude that the results of both “Taqwa” and “Hayaa” are the same, but the methodology of reaching the end result is somewhat different. We do hope that this answers your question.