Have you been feeling demotivated? Do you feel your Iman slipping?

Every Muslim experiences a dip in their Iman at some point. After all, faith is not a static notion. Like a flower, our Iman requires constant nurturing in order to blossom. Feeling secure in our Iman today does not mean we are guaranteed the same feeling tomorrow.

If you find yourself feeling this way, there are things you can do to reinvigorate and strengthen your faith.

5 ways you can increase your Iman:

Contemplate and research

Contemplate Allah’s universal signs and creation. Contemplation of the cosmos, our place in it and death itself boost’s one’s faith and sharpens one’s focus on what truly matters in this life like. Remind yourself about things often taken for granted, such as our relationship with other humans, our ability to perceive ourselves and create freely.

Watch Islamic lectures, listen to podcasts, talk to friends, read about the the science and miracles of Islam. Keep feeding your curiosity and never stop learning.

It is easy to get lost in modern day distractions, and often times we unintentionally hide behind these as an excuse. Try and detach yourself from this urge – being open and honest with yourself will allow you to evaluate your Iman and decipher whether you’re happy with the standard being met.

Reading Quran (with translation)

The Quran is nourishment for the soul and provides light and guidance within our lives as Muslims. Open the Quran and read any verse; you will find meaning in everything.

If you feel your Iman slipping, turning to the Quran will replenish your spirit. Within the book lies every answer, including the answer to strengthen one’s Iman.

Understanding Islamic history and marvelling at the miracles of Allah will also increase our knowledge and naturally draw us closer to Allah.

Do dua

Make dua and engage in dhikr.

Talking to Allah about our woes, hopes, dreams, and remembering Him through dhikr is a good way to remind ourselves of our finite place in this world. Remembering death and the hereafter can help refocus our minds on what’s truly important.

If a sin has been committed, it can be easy to feel struck with apathy and be pessimism. Despite your sin, it does not mean you should forgo the rest of your Islamic duties. Instead, acknowledge your sin, repent, and return to Allah. Allah readily accepts wrongdoers, and we should seek His forgiveness constantly rather than turning our backs in ignorance and shame.

Increase good deeds

Good deeds are not confined or limited to a particular category. They vary from helping your next-door neighbour to being active in environmental or social issues. No deed is a small deed. Even smiling counted as a good deed according to the Prophet (pbuh).

A good deed is not exclusive to other Muslims. Doing good deeds should cover all people and creatures of Allah. We are fortunate to be living in a society where opportunities are available to join numerous charities and social organisations. Caring and helping others refines the heart and makes one more conscious of other people, and ultimately strengthens one’s faith. Remember, faith isn’t merely a list of “Do’s and Don’t.”

Pray

If your Iman is low, you may feel demotivated or apathetic to get up and pray.

Whatever the reason, don’t let that hinder your prayer. Prayer is regarded as fundamental in Islam for a reason: it is a time where we can detach ourselves from the constant noise within this dunya and connect with our Maker.

The important thing is to never give up. Begin, even if the act is small. Intention is everything.

To read more about strengthening your Iman from the British Fatwa Council, you can click here.