Numerous individuals think they make their own choices, however, lots of our behavior is affected by hidden forms of fear. These kinds of fear may not show themselves to a person, but their effect is real and it can be enormous in how we think, feel and act. Islam teaches that we should not fear anyone or anything but Allah, however, most of the types of fear that still rule us as humans, would extract our true growth and liberation and allow us to develop peace within ourselves. When we learn to realize, accept and appreciate our fears, we create an opportunity for ourselves to live and act more courageously.
1. Fear of Failure
Fear of failure stops people from stepping out and taking chances, and whispers “You will never succeed” which prevents them from living out their dreams. In the world of psychology, the fear of failure is associated with low self-worth. In Islam, success is measured by effort, not just results. Allah respects the honest attempt and gives believers the courage to try even if worldly success is impossible.
2. Rejection Fear
People often change their truths in order to be accepted. They hide feelings to make other people happy but the truth is that they create a false sense of reality. Islamic ally, we are encouraged to be honest and use kindness even when it’s not popular. The Prophet since his first moment of Prophet hood was rejected by numerous people, but he maintains strong adherence to his Goals. Faith gave him strength to face and overcome rejection which allowed him to remain genuinely truthful.
3. Change Fear
Change can be uncomfortable due to the unknown, so people remain in an unhealthy space of comfort, which can genuinely be harmful to them. From a psychological perspective, the brain prefers predictability unconsciously but in Islam, life is geared towards growth. In fact, the Qur’an states to believers to embrace change and move forward and Allah goes further to state, “Indeed, with hardship, is ease”. (Qur’an 94:6) Faith should help shift the perception of fear of change into hope for better times.
4. Criticism Fear
People create limits on their passions because they try to avoid criticism. They care more for others opinion than that of Allah’s which limits their creativity and self-expression.
5. Fear of the Unknown
The future is uncertain, which creates fear for many and leads to over-analyzing every possible scenario based on “what if.” This fear creates hesitation in making bold decisions that are based in faith. Islam teaches tawakkul (trust in Allah), and teaches that the unknown is solely in the control of multiple Allah.
Read more: Daily Affirmations to Reprogram Your Mind
6. Fear of Loneliness
Some people remain in toxic relationships simply to prevent being lonely. They sacrifice personal feelings of self-respect, because being lonely feels unbearable. But Islam teaches that Allah is always near, and true rest comes from closeness to Allah. The Qur’an teaches, “Indeed, Allah is with the patient,” reminding believers that the concept of never being alone is always true when being a believer.
This fear creates a feeling of fear and sadness. Islam teaches believers that everything that we own is owned by Allah. It becomes easier to ease the burden of losing things, when the loss can be viewed as a test from Allah. Patience with loss will lead to significant reward in the hereafter, making the heart immensely calmer.
7. Fear of Loss
This fear creates a feeling of fear and sadness. Islam teaches believers that everything that we own is owned by Allah. It becomes easier to ease the burden of losing things, when the loss can be viewed as a test from Allah. Patience with loss will lead to significant reward in the hereafter, making the heart immensely calmer.
8. Fear of Being Judged Spiritually
Some of us may hide our acts of religion because we are scared of being ridiculed, and others avoid learning because they want to avoid mistakes. This can cause us to slow down in our spiritual development. The Prophet ﷺ was mocked for praying and proclaiming but continued courageously. Where our faith is firm enough, it overrides the fear of what people think and allows a believer to progress spiritually without the burden of shame.
9. Fear of Regret
Many people overthink their decisions in fear of regretting later, but overthinking can make us frozen and result in doing nothing at all. Fear of regret steals precious time and opportunity to act on something beneficial. Islam teaches believers to consult, make decisions, and then put their trust in Allah. All regret intensity fades when we act sincerely for His sake.
10. Fear of Death
For many people, this is their deepest fear, and they even go so far as to not even want to think about death. Ignoring death does not take death away, however. Islam explains that death is a path to the next life, not an end to life. Our concern, therefore, is to prepare for the next life. This keeps the heart focused on the permanence of the afterlife.
Islamic Case Study – The Fear That Was Supplanted
When the Prophet ﷺ and Abu Bakr رضي الله عنه fled to Madinah, they took refuge to hide in the Cave of Thawr while the Quraysh were searching nearby. At that moment, fear could have overtaken them. Abu Bakr whispered to the Prophet ﷺ, “If they look down, they will see us.” The Prophet ﷺ said to him, “Do not be sad, indeed Allah is with us.” (Qur’an 9:40). The power of trust in Allah silenced fear in their hearts, helping their inner world transition from a state of panic to peace. Fear truly was conquered by trust in Allah.
How to Escape Silent Fears
First, identify the fear by noticing how you react. Second, question it with faith-based reasoning. Third, take small daily action steps against it. Trade your fearful thoughts for Qur’anic reminders and seek out people of wisdom for support. And finally, remember Allah alone is in charge of all affairs so you can find lasting contentment and peace.
Final Remarks
Fear is a normal part of life as a human being who uses their intellect. But your fear does not have to control your life. When we allow fear to be unchallenged we cease our momentum and inhibit our progress in all aspects of life. Luckily, and often at times of urgency through the Qur’an and Sunnah, Islam has given us avenues to confront fear and taught us about courage through faith. After you engage with qanaat (trusting Allah), you will certainly remove fear and replace it with peace and you will be able to become free in your inner landscape and fearless.
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