How Can I Get over the Shame of Sinning Publicly?
Answered by Ustada Shazia Ahmad
Question
What to do about sins I committed in public in the past, I feel embarrassed and think my reputation in front of some people is ruined. I feel so uneasy and anxious, I have repented, but when I see other Muslims I think they are better and I am not good like them. Now those people are not in my life, is there any du`a I can say for my reputation to improve?
Answer
Despair
You should never despair and you should know that Allah forgives all sins. There have been many sinners before you and those who have done far worse. Find solace in this Quranic verse. Allah Most High says, “Say, ‘O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.’” [Quran, 39:53] It will do you no good to look back and worry what others think. Only look forward and anticipate more change, more transformation, and more closeness to Allah Most High. Whoever talks about you is not you friend, only interact with those who benefit you.
Du`a
Please say this du`a within this verse of the Quran, “And ˹remember˺ when the Man of the Whale stormed off from his city in a rage, thinking We would not restrain him. Then in the veils of darkness, he cried out, “There is no god ˹worthy of worship˺ except You. Glory be to You! I have certainly done wrong.” [Quran, 21:87]
لا إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا أَنتَ سُبْحَـٰنَكَ إِنِّى كُنتُ مِنَ ٱلظَّـٰلِمِينَ.
“My Lord! Grant me wisdom, and join me with the righteous. Bless me with honourable mention among later generations. Make me one of those awarded the Garden of Bliss.
رَبِّ هَبْ لِى حُكْماً وَأَلْحِقْنِى بِٱلصَّـٰلِحِينَ, وَٱجْعَل لِّى لِسَانَ صِدْقٍ فِى ٱلْآخِرِينَ, وَٱجْعَلْنِى مِن وَرَثَةِ جَنَّةِ ٱلنَّعِيمِ
Please think of this man’s repentance, be encouraged, have hope in Allah, and don’t give people a second thought. They will not help you on the day of Judgement:
[Ustada] Shazia Ahmad