Question
Lately , I’ve found myself really doubting islam and I get really stressed out. I believe in science a lot and I find praying and going to mosque boring and a waste of my time. Sometimes i feel like i dont believe in god. I feel a lot more comfortable without religion.
This scares me a lot.
~
Response
As-Salaamun ‘Alaikum – peace be with you,
Thank you for reaching out to us. We know that it isn’t easy and we appreciate the confidence you have placed in us. May you be rewarded, Ameen.
A common misconception is that we have to choose between science and religion. It is worth noting that science is not a belief system in itself, but a discipline to understand the material and physical world. It is true that some scientific assumptions or theories may conflict with one’s specific beliefs as a Muslim. This is not a contemporary issue but one that our tradition has dealt with previously. As Muslims, we are encouraged to seek knowledge, observe the world around us and to be truthful – this includes intellectual honesty.
Furthermore, as Muslims we are constantly in a state of Jihad (spiritual struggle) with our Nafs (soul), therefore you may perceive your struggle with motivation for Salah (prayer) as a worldly test. Salah is a fundamental pillar of Islam and obligatory upon all able Muslims, but it is possible to find it difficult to fulfil this obligation. One may sincerely make Du’a (supplication) for Allah (SWT) to provide ease during this difficult time whilst simultaneously making a sincere intention to strive to perform Salah in a timely manner. We should also have Yaqeen (certainty) that if our hearts and efforts are sincere, Allah (SWT) will assist us, as long as we remain on the path towards Him:
“My Lord says, ‘If My slave comes nearer to me for a span, I go nearer to him for a cubit; and if he comes nearer to Me for a cubit, I go nearer to him for the span of outstretched arms; and if he comes to Me walking, I go to him running.’” [Bukhari]
One can also engage in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah (SWT)) through reciting prayers or reflecting upon His Divine Attributes, as well as supplicating for the purification of one’s heart, so that Allah (SWT) and His Messenger (ﷺ) become beloved to it.
If you are experiencing recurring doubt which manifests in the form of intrusive thoughts, some of our previously published content may prove beneficial, In Shaa Allah:
- I am struggling with intrusive thoughts that attack Allah, am I accountable for these thoughts?
- God is Sufficient to protect me from my intrusive thoughts
These are just some humble suggestions. We sincerely hope and pray that one or more of them will be suitable to your circumstances and help create ease for you, In Shaa Allah (if Allah wills). If you would like to discuss anything else on your mind, we also offer more personalized counselling here at Inspirited Minds.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you need any further support.
Allah knows best and we hope this helps In Shaa Allah (if Allah wills),
Duas (supplication) always,
IM Support Team
~
Ask Inspirited Minds is a safe, anonymous and confidential space for you to ask specific questions or seek advice around your mental health and wellbeing. We will publish your question and our response on our website but will make sure to make it anonymous and change any identifiable details. If you are going through these problems, then it’s highly likely someone else is going through something similar and we hope our advice can also be of help to others in a similar situation.
Click the link below to send us your question
