Dear brothers and sisters in faith, one of the most profound questions we can ask ourselves in times of difficulty is this:
“Am I a victim of a self-induced or self-orchestrated problem?”
This question, though simple in phrasing, holds the power to unveil layers of personal responsibility, emotional awareness, and spiritual misalignment that often go unexamined. In an age where external circumstances are often blamed for internal turmoil, Islam teaches us to take personal stock before pointing fingers.
Understanding the Root of Our Mental Struggles
Many individuals fall into psychological and emotional traps — not necessarily because of external forces — but due to how their minds have been conditioned. Emotional impulsiveness, attachment to fleeting pleasures, and a constant chase for instant gratification cloud judgment and distort the reality of what truly matters.
Allah warns us about this in the Qur’an:
"But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not."
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:216)
People often set the conditions for their happiness so high that they become unreachable. They attach their emotional well-being to worldly milestones like academic degrees, job promotions, or wealth — all of which are not guaranteed and may take years to achieve. This false linkage leads to anxiety, sadness, and even despair when those goals seem distant or fail to materialize.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“Look at those who are lower than you (in worldly matters), and do not look at those who are above you, for this will make you appreciate the blessings Allah has bestowed upon you.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2963)
The Simplicity of Divine Contentment
Islam provides us with a profound psychological anchor: finding joy, purpose, and contentment in simple, daily acts of worship and connection with Allah. When we tie our happiness to what is consistent and spiritually nourishing, our mental and emotional states become more resilient and peaceful.
Examples of such simple yet deeply fulfilling actions include:
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The Five Daily Prayers (Salah): A direct, calming link between the servant and their Lord. The Prophet ﷺ described salah as a source of tranquility, saying:
"The coolness of my eyes is in prayer."
(Sunan an-Nasa’i, 3940; graded Sahih) -
Daily Recitation of the Qur'an (Tilawah): The Qur’an is a healing and mercy:
"And We send down from the Qur'an that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe."
(Surah Al-Isra, 17:82) -
Gratitude and Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah):
“Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.”
(Surah Ar-Ra’d, 13:28)
When these become the benchmarks of our satisfaction, we experience peace that is independent of the unpredictable nature of worldly pursuits.
The Wisdom of the Salaf
The righteous predecessors deeply understood this truth. Ibn Taymiyyah (رحمه الله) once said:
“What can my enemies do to me? My paradise is in my heart, wherever I go it is with me... If they kill me, it is martyrdom; if they imprison me, it is seclusion with my Lord; if they expel me, it is a journey in the path of Allah.”
This powerful quote illustrates the mindset of one whose internal contentment is rooted in their relationship with Allah, not external outcomes.
Shift the Metric of Your Joy
Beloved brothers and sisters, let us be intentional and wise in how we measure happiness and success. Instead of associating joy with material accomplishments or societal validations, let us link our hearts to that which is simple, achievable, and spiritually uplifting — such as our salah, Qur’an, remembrance of Allah, acts of kindness, and good character.
Let us teach our minds to find peace in submission, not in perfection. Let us train our hearts to celebrate progress, not just performance.
As Allah says:
"Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer – We will surely cause him to live a good life, and We will surely give them their reward according to the best of what they used to do."
(Surah An-Nahl, 16:97)
May Allah grant us the wisdom to see clearly, the strength to realign our intentions, and the peace that comes from living a life grounded in His remembrance and submission.
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