How Can I Overcome Doubts About Faith and Find Clarity?
Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Question
I am struggling with thoughts that everything is illogical, including the world and the Creator, which causes me anxiety and disrupts my studies. How can I reconcile these thoughts and find clarity in my faith?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.
May Allah (Most High) grant you ease and clarity. Your concern reflects a sincere desire to align your thoughts with truth and faith, which is a noble pursuit. Below are steps to help you reconcile these doubts and find peace:
Understand the Nature of Doubts
Doubts are a natural part of intellectual and spiritual growth. The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) reassured us that experiencing such thoughts does not invalidate faith. He said,
“Allah has forgiven my Umma for the (unintentional) evil thoughts that occur in their hearts as long as they do not speak of them or act upon them.” [Bukhari; Muslim]
Recognize these thoughts as transient and external, not a reflection of your belief or worth.
Strengthen Your Foundation of Faith
Invest time in learning Islamic theology (‘Aqida) from reliable scholars. A well-grounded understanding of faith equips you to respond to doubts logically and spiritually. Studying the attributes of Allah (Most High) and the wisdom in creation will reinforce your conviction.
Recommended Resources
- Imam Tahawi’s ‘Aqida al-Tahawiyya with explanation
- SeekersGuidance courses such as: What Muslims Believe and Why
Reflect on the Signs in Creation
Allah (Most High) encourages us to contemplate His creation as a means of strengthening faith. He says,
“Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the day and night are signs for those of understanding.” [Quran, 3:190]
Reflect on the intricacy, order, and beauty of the universe—it is a testimony to the Creator’s wisdom and power.
Consistent acts of worship and turning to Allah (Most High) in supplication help calm the heart and provide clarity. Allah (Most High) says,
“Indeed, it is in the remembrance of Allah that hearts find comfort.” [Quran, 13:28]
Regular prayer, dhikr, and recitation of the Quran nurture the soul and strengthen faith.
Allah Knows
Allah (Most High) is merciful and understands our struggles. He says,
“Call upon Me; I will respond to you.” [Quran, 40:60]
Trust in His guidance and know that your sincere effort to resolve these doubts is a sign of faith.
These struggles, while challenging, are an opportunity to deepen your understanding and connection with Allah (Most High). Take gradual steps, rely on trusted resources, and trust in His mercy. As you progress, you will find clarity and peace, insha’Allah.
If you require further support, SeekersGuidance is here to provide reliable resources and guidance. May Allah (Most High) bless you with steadfast faith and tranquility.
May Allah bless us all.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Mohammad Abu Bakr Badhib
Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan (Allah have mercy on him), where he taught.
Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Shaykh Muhammad Awama, Shaykh Muhammad Hasan Hitu, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.
He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has been the Director of the Discover Islam Centre, and for six years, he has been the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.
Shaykh Irshaad has fifteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town). He is currently building an Islamic podcast, education, and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy Prophetic living and fitness.
