Question
Hello, I am 19 years old, and I consider my self to be a good Muslim. I pray, read Quran and generally feel that I am trying my best. I have recently become more interested in Islam, and enjoying it more. I also have suffered from anxiety disorder, and faith has been something that has kept me grounded.
However, I listened to a talk about death, and the afterlife. I am now having intrusive thoughts and worries about whether Allah s.w.t will ever forgive for my sins, and if I will not reach Jannah. These thoughts are extremely distressing to me, especially because islam was something that normally bought comfort to my anxiety, but seems to be the cause of it. I am feeling anxious for the while day due to these thoughts, and struggle to pray etc. because I don’t want to think those thoughts, which is not like me.
Do you have any advice on this? I understand that Allah is most merciful, and that as long as you try your best every believer is guaranteed Jannah, but I am still really struggling.
Thank you.
~
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.
Firstly, it is great that you are trying your best to practice Islam, especially by praying, and reading Qur’an, Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to Allah). It shows that you are going towards the right direction and we pray you continue to grow even more!
Having intrusive thoughts can be distressing and can cause you to feel anxious. It can also lead you to struggle with your religious acts such as prayer, as you mentioned. Your worries about your faith are an indication that you truly love Islam and want to better yourself. This is because intrusive thoughts are often based on things that are important to you. However, sometimes it can become too difficult to cope with.
Remind yourself that these thoughts do not define you and you have more power than them. One technique you could use is writing a list of positive affirmations that you say to yourself. Here are a few examples:
- “These thoughts have no power over me”
- “I have power over these thoughts and I will take charge”
- “I have placed my trust in Allah (SWT)”
- “Allah (SWT) is my friend, and He will help me”
As you mentioned, Allah (SWT) is the Most Merciful and if you try your best you will be rewarded. At the same time, Allah (SWT) is Al-Alim (the All-Knowing). He is aware that you dislike these thoughts and how distressful they are for you. He is also aware that Shaytaan tells you that your sins are too big to be forgiven. It is understandable that there are times when you feel like your sins may be too much.
Abu Huraira (RA) reported: the Prophet Muhammed (ﷺ) said,
“If your sins were to reach to the heavens and then you repented, Allah would still accept your repentance.” [Ibn Majah]
During these times, take comfort in knowing that Allah (SWT) is aware that we make mistakes. Because of this, He has given us our prayers and other acts of worship, including Du’a (supplications). Expressing your feelings to Allah (SWT) can be a great way to channel your thoughts and at the same time, Allah (SWT) will always respond to your Du’a in any way. It’s a win-win situation!
“And your Lord has said: Pray unto Me and I will hear your prayer” [Qur’an 20:60]
Finally, please do remember that there is a wide range of support available to you. Inspirited Minds offers counselling services that may be useful for coping with your intrusive thoughts and anxiety.
We end with this Qur’an verse and pray that you continue the beautiful deeds you are doing SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah)!
“Keep up the prayer and pay the prescribed charity. Whatever good you store up for yourselves, you will find it with God. He sees everything you do” [Qur’an 2:110].
May the Most Merciful continue to shower you with His mercy!
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).
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
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