Quranic Strategy for Tackling Stress
Belief in God gives one optimism, hope in the future and peace of mind, thus eliminating stress.
Psychologists often say that the best way to deal with stress is to have the courage to face reality. One should accept what happens in life, whether good or bad, and try to interact with these realities, according to psychologists.
But the Holy Quran offers a better strategy to deal with stress. The best and most important one is having faith in God. Faith is very effective in reducing stress. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) said: Have faith (in God) so that you will reach peace.
According to renowned psychologist William James (1842 –1910), faith is undoubtedly the most effective cure for anxiety.
Faith in God can reduce stress and bring about peace of mind from different aspects. First, it gives us optimism about the world and creation. One who has religious belief considers creation to be purposeful and believes that its purpose is mankind’s perfection and salvation. This belief gives him peace. An unbeliever, however, has an anxious and spiteful approach to the world and considers himself to be trapped in it.
The Quran says: “Whoever ignores My guidance will live a woeful life.” (Verse 124 of Surah Taha)
Faith in God also gives us hope for the future. In the logic of believers, the world is not indifferent to their efforts, but supports those who strive on the path of truth, justice and goodness.
According to the Holy Book:
“Believers, if you help God, He will help you and make you steadfast (in your faith).” (Verse 7 of Surah Muhammad)
“God does not ignore the reward of those who do good.” (Verse 120 of Surah At-Tawbah)
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But the main benefit of faith is that it creates peace and tranquility in the heart and thus eliminates stress. The main factor that leads to stress is worrying about whether one’s good deeds will have any benefit, whether one’s truthfulness will pay off, whether there will be a good end to all one’s efforts and fulfillment of duties. Faith in God answers these questions and gives one confidence that there will be a good end to his efforts.
The Holy Quran Says: “The righteously striving believers who are steadfast in their prayers and pay the zakat, will receive their reward from God. They will have no fear nor will they grieve.” (Verse 277 of Surah Al-Baqarah)
Translated by Seyed Hossein Beheshti Shakib
