[Reader Discussion] How to Recover from Phases of Weak Iman

There are phases when we don’t feel motivated enough to hasten towards good deeds as we should. We learn from the Qur’an and Sunnah that there are reasons that trigger these phases:

1. Overzealousness or excessiveness in worship beyond one’s ability, which might lead to a relapse and lack of ability to maintain the hype.

‘Aisha narrated: “Once the Prophet came while a woman was sitting with me. He said, “Who is she?” I replied, “She is so and so,” and told him about her (excessive) praying. He said disapprovingly, “Do (good) deeds which is within your capacity (without being overtaxed) as Allah does not get tired (of giving rewards) but (surely) you will get tired and the best deed (act of Worship) in the sight of Allah is that which is done regularly.” [Sahih al-Bukhari]

2. Also amongst the reasons, is not being in the company of righteous friends and scholars. Being in such company increases one’s iman and encourages one to do more good and leave the bad. Allah says:

“And keep yourself patient [by being] with those who call upon their Lord in the morning and the evening, seeking His countenance. And let not your eyes pass beyond them, desiring adornments of the worldly life, and do not obey one whose heart We have made heedless of Our remembrance and who follows his desire and whose affair is ever [in] neglect.” [Qur’an: Chapter 18, Verse 28]

3. Committing sins also play a major role in burdening the heart, losing its light and the drive to keep going.

The Prophet said: “When the believer commits sin, a black spot appears on his heart. If he repents and gives up that sin and seeks forgiveness, his heart will be polished. But if (the sin) increases, (the black spot) increases. That is the Ran that Allah mentions in His Book: “Nay! But on their hearts is the Ran (covering of sins and evil deeds) which they used to earn.” [Qur’an: Chapter 83: Verse14]” [Sunan Ibn Majah]

4. Additionally, we learn that pursuing knowledge of the deen is key to maintaining our iman. Reading and studying the Qur’an, learning about the seerah, stories of the companions, knowing more about death, the afterlife, Hellfire and Jannah keep one focused, determined, and put life into perspective. When there are shortcomings in pursuing knowledge, iman and motivation also weaken.

Now, the Prophet taught us the dua: “’Ya muqallibal-qulubi, thabbit qalbi ‘ala dinika (O Controller of the hearts make my heart steadfast in Your religion).” [At- Tirmidhi]

This is because iman is one’s greatest treasure that needs to be guarded and protected. Even if one loses focus a little bit, there are always ways to come back strong.

In this reader discussion, we want you to share with us your thoughts on how to recover from weak iman phases. What are your tips, techniques and go-to remedies to restore your iman?

Also tell us, how do phases of weak iman reduce our overall productivity, and what can we do about this?