Fear is a natural human emotion that one may experience in various situations in life. However, this feeling can become harmful if it starts affecting our daily lives and relationships with others. In this matter, Islam guides us to multiple ways to overcome fear and boost self-confidence by returning to the teachings of the Qur'an.
Here, we present five key points to help you overcome fear:
1. Reliance on Allah
Reliance on Allah (Tawakkul) is one of the most important concepts in Islam. It means taking the necessary actions, while knowing that success and failure are in the hands of Allah. This level of trust provides a sense of security and reduces fear. Allah reminds us in the Qur'an that He is the Protector, and no one can harm us except by His permission. He is the Trustee in whom we should place our trust. Allah says: "And rely upon Allah; and sufficient is Allah as Disposer of affairs" (Surah Al-Ahzab: 3).
2. Belief in Divine Decree (Qadar)
Belief in divine decree (Qadar) is one of the pillars of faith, as mentioned in the hadith of Jibril when he asked the Prophet about faith. The Prophet replied: "To believe in Allah, His Angels, His Books, His Messengers, the Last Day, and the divine decree, both good and bad." (Sahih Muslim).
Everything that happens in life, whether it be trials, challenges, or blessings, is known by Allah before it occurs and is written in the Preserved Tablet (Al-Lawh Al-Mahfuz). Allah says: "Say, 'Never will we be struck except by what Allah has decreed for us; He is our protector.' And upon Allah let the believers rely." (Surah At-Tawbah: 51).
Understanding that all difficulties are by Allah's decree enables a Muslim to accept hardships, avoid excessive worry, and have patience, for patience is rewarded with Paradise. As Allah says: "And will reward them for what they patiently endured [with] a garden [in Paradise] and silk [garments]." (Surah Al-Insan: 12).
This belief helps Muslims accept difficult circumstances and avoid overwhelming anxiety, knowing that everything is predestined and that one will never be burdened beyond their capacity. As Allah says: "Allah does not charge a soul except [with that within] its capacity." (Surah Al-Baqarah: 286).
3. Supplication (Du'a) and Remembrance of Allah (Dhikr)
Supplication and remembrance of Allah are forms of worship, as Allah commands in His Book: "So remember Me; I will remember you." (Surah Al-Baqarah: 152).
Remembrance of Allah brings peace to the heart, as He says: "Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured." (Surah Ar-Ra'd: 28).
Allah also commands us to invoke Him and promises to respond to our supplications. We can ask Allah for anything, and in His generosity, He answers our prayers and bestows countless blessings upon us, such as food, drink, clothing, peace of mind, satisfaction, forgiveness, and guidance to the straight path. Allah says: "And your Lord says, 'Call upon Me; I will respond to you.'" (Surah Ghafir: 60).
4. Reading the Qur'an
The Qur'an is always a source of tranquility, no matter the time, place, or situation. It is our protection from the whispers of Satan, and there are verses that remove fear and anxiety. Allah says: "Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured." (Surah Ar-Ra'd: 28).
The two chapters Al-Mu'awwidhatayn (Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Nas) were revealed as a protection for the Prophet from sorcery. Reciting them during morning and evening remembrances serves as a shield from harm. Many verses in the Qur'an speak of patience, strength, trust in Allah, and reliance on Him.
5. Seeking Refuge in Allah from Satan
Satan always seeks to spread fear and anxiety in the hearts of believers, and his whispers are a form of illness. The cure is to seek refuge in Allah from him. Satan's goal is to mislead people, so Allah describes him as an enemy: "Indeed, Satan is an enemy to you; so take him as an enemy. He only invites his party to be among the companions of the Blaze." (Surah Fatir: 6). Allah also says: "And if there comes to you from Satan an evil suggestion, then seek refuge in Allah. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Knowing." (Surah Fussilat: 36).
Whenever a person feels overwhelmed by whispers, they should seek refuge in Allah from Satan by saying, "I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed Satan," with sincerity and strong faith, knowing that Allah is the only protector from all harm.
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