It can be deeply distressing to suddenly experience intrusive thoughts or doubts about one’s faith, such as a persistent “whisper” (waswasa) questioning the existence of Allah. When these insinuations grow stronger despite efforts to overcome them, it can cause extreme worry. This article addresses the Islamic perspective on such doubts and provides a remedy.
Reflect on the Creation
Prominent scholars advise a person in this state to sit in seclusion and ponder the universe. Ask these questions:
- Who created me?
- Who created the whole universe?
- Who created the sun and the moon tens of millions of years ago?
One should meditate on all creatures and how they are created, reflecting on the process of creation from the tiny atom to the mighty galaxy, and from the smallest insect to the biggest mammal.
Ponder the Words of the Qur’an
It is also advised to read the Ever-Glorious Qur’an and try to understand the meanings hidden in the verses, especially those concerned with Allah’s Attributes and His Omnipotence. For example, Allah Almighty says:
“Say (O Muhammad): Praise be to Allah, and peace be on His slaves whom He hath chosen! Is Allah best, or (all) that ye ascribe as partners (unto Him)? Is not He (best) who created the heavens and the earth, and sendeth down for you water from the sky wherewith We cause to spring forth joyous orchards, whose trees it never hath been yours to cause to grow. Is there any God beside Allah? Nay, but they are folk who ascribe equals (unto Him)!… Is not He (best) who answereth the wronged one when he crieth unto Him and removeth the evil, and hath made you a viceroy of the earth? Is there any God beside Allah? Little do they reflect!” (An-Naml: 58-62)
He Almighty also says:
“Man is (self)destroyed: how ungrateful! From what thing doth He create him? From a drop of seed. He createth him and proportioneth him. Then maketh the way easy for him. Then, causeth him to die, and burieth him… Let man consider his food: How We pour water in showers. Then split the earth in clefts. And cause the grain to grow therein. And grapes and green fodder, and olive trees and palm trees… Provision for you and your cattle.” (`Abasa: 16-32)
A person should try their best to understand these verses fully, employing the mind in deep thought. It is also beneficial to read books by scholars of comparative religion and philosophy that affirm faith and address such questions.
A Prophetic Supplication for Guidance
When a person feels overloaded with worries and doubts, they should reiterate the supplication mentioned in the following Hadith. `A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that when the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) got up at night, he would commence his prayer with these words:
“O Allah, Lord of Gabriel, and Michael, and Israfil, the Creator of the heavens and the earth, Who knowest the unseen and the seen; Thou decidest amongst Thy servants concerning their differences. Guide me with Thy permission in the divergent views (which the people) hold about Truth, for it is Thou Who guidest whom Thou wilt to the Straight Path.” (Reported by Muslim)
Understanding Intrusive Thoughts (Waswasa)
Such insinuation is often a sign of faith, as Satan tries his best to dissuade true believers from the straight path. Once, Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) was asked why the Jews were spared the trouble of Satanic whispers in their prayers. He said, “Really, Satan has nothing to do with the heart which is void of faith.”
Hence, true Muslims are often afflicted with insinuations to test their faith. One should take refuge in Allah, and He Almighty will protect and have mercy on them, as He is the Most Gracious and the Most Merciful.
