Everyone has stress. Many people experience guilt, sadness, or confusion, all of which can cloud someone’s mind. Thankfully, Islam provides the tools for healing. One incredibly effective tool is Istighfaar, which is seeking forgiveness from Allah.
Istighfaar is not just simply saying words; it is more complex than that. It involves practice as well. Istighfaar brings peace & tranquillity to the heart, hope in doubt, and comfort in our difficulties. Also, the practice of Istighfaar helps to heal the mind. Let’s discover how exactly Istighfaar mediates your psychological well-being.
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What is Istighfaar?
Istighfaar is the expression “Astaghfirullah”, which means that you are asking Allah for forgiveness. While you say it from your tongue, you also have to feel it from your heart. This expression is simple. It carries profound meaning. First, it tells the reader that you take responsibility for your mistakes. Second, it shows that you turn to Allah for guidance and support. Finally, it shows that you want to change and do better.
Why Do We Need Forgiveness?
Humans are imperfect beings. We make mistakes every day. We sometimes lie or sometimes hurt others. Also, we even hurt ourselves. All of these things contribute to feelings of guilt and regret.
When we hold onto guilt, it builds inside us and becomes heavy. It can become a burden on a person’s heart. It can have negative effects on one’s mind too.
But Allah has given us a way to get rid of that burden. He has given us Istighfaar.
So, istighfaar allows us to clear our hearts. It allows us to clear our minds and also allows us to start with a clean slate.
Guilt and Mental Health
Guilt is a good thing when it comes to understanding right from wrong. However, it is necessary to regulate the amount of guilt we feel because too much is not good for us. Too much guilt can lead to feelings of sadness and stress.
Many people continue to feel lost in life due to their sins from the past. They feel they cannot get back to perhaps the person they were before these sins, and they carry feelings of guilt for years that ultimately can deteriorate someone’s mental health in the long run.
However, Islam teaches us, that there is a difference between ‘huge’ sins, Allah’s mercy is very vast too! If only through Istighfaar you can release your mind of feeling guilty.
The Promise of Forgiveness from Allah
Allah has promised to forgive any of His wondering servants at any time. In Quran Allah says:
“Say, O My servants who have believed, do not lose hope in the mercy of Allah.”
(Surah Az-Zumar, 39:53)
These verses are amazing. It carries so much weight and provides hope for the broken. It teaches us that Allah will never tire of forgiving. Allah is always here to give us peace.
How Istigfaar can heal the heart
- It Relieves Heavy Weight
When you seek forgiveness, your heart feels light. When you feel forgiveness, you feel close to Allah. That closeness brings peace. Your mind is calm. Your soul is safe. - It Relives Stress
Carrying sin is heavy. It burdens the heart with worry. But when you say Istigfaar, it removes that worry. You release pain. You give it to Allah, it helps healthily! - It Creates Hope
People feel stuck. They feel they are too far gone. Saying Istigfaar opens a new door. It tells you it’s never too late. That feeling is hope and joy. - It Helps Self Worth
Guilt breaks self-worth. You feel not enough. Then, when Allah forgives, you see value. You see your value again!
Forgiveness is Backed by Science
Modern psychology is also in support of forgiveness. Many studies indicate that forgiveness helps with mental health. It decreases anxiety and improves sleep. It helps people be happier. When you forgive others, you free your heart. When you ask for forgiveness your guilt is diminished. Islam advocates both, forgiving others and asking Allah for forgiveness.
Prophet Muhammad’s Practice of Istighfaar
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) did not commit sins. He still said Istighfaar over 70 times each day. He did this to show us a way. Also, he even taught that Istighfaar is a door to peace. It connects us to Allah. It keeps our hearts clean and softened. So, if we follow his practice, our emotional and spiritual health may improve.
هنا المراجعة بالانغليزية:
Istighfaar and Everyday Life
You can say Istighfaar whenever you’d like. There is no specific time you need to say it. You can say it as a whisper in the early morning. You can say it again before you sleep, and you can repeat this prayer while you walk or while you work. It is easy to add it to your daily routine. Hence, the more you add Istighfaar, the more peace of mind you feel.
Here are just a few examples of when to use Istighfaar:
After every prayer
When you feel stressed
Before sleeping
After making a mistake
When you remember a past sin
Practical Suggestions to Heal with Istighfaar
- Start Small
You can start with ten a day, slowly. Then increase it. There’s no need to rush or have any deadline. Just focus on your heart when you say it. - Mean What You Say
Astaghfirullah should not just be an empty phrase. Say “Astaghfirullah” with a feel. Think about mistakes you want Allah to forgive you for. Ask Allah sincerely to forgive you. - Make it a Habit
The best way to stay consistent is to make Istighfaar, a part of your daily routine. Say it while driving. Repeat it while cooking. Make it part of your everyday life. - Think About Allah’s Mercy
Think about how generous Allah has been and continues to be in your life. Also, think about how many times Allah has saved you from harm. Then think about how Allah deserves your gratitude. - Also, write “Forgiveness Journal”
Sometimes writing is helpful. Perhaps write down your emotions. Write down your duas. Write down what you are sorry for.
What If You Don’t Feel Peace Right Away?
Healing takes time. Sometimes the heart is heavy. You might not feel better right away. But you mustn’t stop. Although, you must continue with the Istighfaar. You must continue to ask Allah. Over time, the heart softens. Even the mind clears.Hence, peace will come. Allah sees your efforts and He will not leave you empty.
Real Stories of Healing
There are many people who have felt the healing power of Istighfaar. Some were lost in sin. Others were battling depression. However, once they turned to Allah and said “Astaghfirullah,” their hearts changed. They felt calm. They felt whole again. That is the beauty of Islam. It always gives hope.
A Dua for Forgiveness
Here is one beautiful dua that was taught to us by the Prophet:
“O Allah, You are my Lord. There is no god but You. You created me and I am Your servant. I keep Your promise and trust as much as I can. I seek refuge from the evil that I have done. Admit your blessings. I admit my sins. So forgive me. None forgives sins but You.”
So, this is called Sayyidul Istighfaar. To say this dua every day will bring you deep healing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Istighfaar is a blessing. It is a road to mental and spiritual rejuvenation. It removes suffering. Also, it cultivates optimism. It tells us that Allah always awaits us. If you find yourself astray, begin with Istighfaar. So, if you find yourself burdened, say, “Astaghfirullah.” Eventually, you will experience light again. You will experience your spirit soar. Hence, keep searching. Keep healing.
Allah will always greet a heart that calls upon Him.
