Curbing negative thoughts or emotions during Ramadan such as Anxiety or Jealousy

Curbing negative thoughts or emotions during Ramadan such as Anxiety or Jealousy

One of the many blessings of Islam is that we are taught that we have the power to redirect our thoughts towards Allah SWT - to His blessings surrounding us, to His names and attributes, and to our gratitude for all we have by His grace. When we do that - when we make a sincere effort to turn our thoughts towards positivity, we inevitably increase the quality and effectiveness of our prayers and worship while relieving ourselves from anger, depression and otherworldly thoughts.

Ibn al Qayyim said:

“You should repulse a thought. If you do not do so, it will develop into a desire. You should, therefore, wage war against it. If you do not do so, it will become a resolution and firm intention. If you do not repulse this, it will develop into a deed. If you do not make up for it by doing the opposite thereof [the opposite of that evil deed], it will become a habit. It will then be very difficult for you to give it up.”

In other words, watch your thoughts for they become words, which become actions, then habits and character. To dispel bad thoughts and interference from Shaytan, make plentiful dua’ to Allah SWT such as:

“My Lord, I seek refuge in You from the incitements of the devils, and I seek refuge in You, my Lord, lest they be present with me.” [Qur’an Al Mu’minun 23:97-98]

Striving in this difficult task has many rewards, one of which is that during the blessed month of Ramadan when the Shayateen are locked away, you are more likely to have even more positive thoughts, making your ibaadah fruitful insh’Allah. If, however, you allow negative and evil thoughts to preoccupy your mind, this habit will stay with you during this blessed month.

Written by HalalParenting