11. Islam Plants Optimism and Hope

Islam wants people to be optimistic. The Almighty God commands “My mercy extends to all things”[1] The Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him) said:

 “When God Almighty created all creation, He wrote in the Book that is above His Throne, ‘My Mercy overcomes my wrath’” (Bukhari, Tawheed, 15).

This belief is sufficient for Muslims to be hopeful. Additional characteristics that comfort Muslims in life include forgiveness, mercy, patience, tawakkul (resolute trust in and reliance on Allah), submission, being content with every situation, and assuming good things about people. A Muslim’s conviction that the troubles and illnesses he faces cancel out sins and elevate spiritual degrees also plays an important role in lightening the burden of life. It is impossible for a Muslim to be sad when has done everything in his power and then submitted to destiny, content with whatever comes from Allah. Such a Muslim lives in a world of serenity and tranquility no matter what.

The doors of repentance are open for disbelievers and sinners until the last moment. A person can come to the fold of belief or repent until he sees the signs of death or the signs of the Judgment Day. However, since death and the day of Judgment will capture a person suddenly, it is necessary to turn to God without losing him. God Almighty states:

“Say: O my Servants who have transgressed against their souls! Despair not of the Mercy of Allah. for Allah forgives all sins: for He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. Turn to our Lord in repentance and bow to His Will before the Penalty comes on you: after that you shall not be helped.” (Az-Zumar (The Companies), 39:53-54)

The Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him) has forbidden people to attribute bad luck to certain things; he has commanded us to look at everything with a positive outlook and interpret things for the better.[2]

Islam recommends avoiding evil assumptions about human beings. Rather, we should look at people with good assumptions. In the Noble Quran it is commanded: “O you who believe! Avoid suspicion as much (as possible): for suspicion in some cases is a sin: And spy not on each other behind their backs…” (Al-Hujurat (The Private Quarters), 49:12)

In addition, in the believers the mindset of “toleration of all creation for the sake of the Creator” is dominant. Because of the love they feel towards the Almighty God, they approach His creation with compassion; they see everything as a trust from the Exalted Creator. They accept with contentment everything that comes from Him.



[1].     Al A‘râf (The Ramparts), 7: 156.

 

[2].     Bukhari, Tıb (Medicine), 19; Muslim, Selâm (Greeting), 102; Abu Dawud, Tıb (Medicine), 24/3919.

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