Inner Peace in Islam: The True Path to Calmness
Every human being in this world — whether rich or poor, black or white, proletarian or bourgeoisie, king or beggar, Muslim or non-Muslim — is in search of peace. The most important element that a person needs for living is mental peace.
Inner peace lies in two major things: serving humanity and remembering Allah. Islam places great emphasis on both of these. It would not be wrong to say that Islam is the religion of peace and calmness. If people follow Islamic teachings according to the guidance of the Qur’an and Sunnah, they naturally find inner peace.
“O People of the Scripture, there has come to you Our Messenger making clear to you much of what you used to conceal of the Scripture and overlooking much. There has come to you from Allah a light and a clear Book. By which Allah guides those who pursue His pleasure to the ways of peace and brings them out from darkness into the light, by His permission, and guides them to a straight path.” [5:15–16]
These verses explain that we have the Qur’an as the complete guide, and the lifestyle of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to show us the right way of living. Islam provides guidance for every walk of life, mentioning the pros and cons of each matter. It is now up to people whether they study Islam or not to achieve the right standards of living, which ultimately benefit the mind with peace and calmness.
Many psychologists and behaviorists argue that, at the end of the day, the greatest human drive is mental peace. Islam provides the road to peace and serenity. It begins with the most basic act — the greeting among Muslims:
- Say
“As-Salamu Alaikum”— “May Allah bless you with peace.” - Paradise is called Dar As-Salam — “House of Peace.”
- One of the 99 names of Allah is As-Salam — “The Source of all Peace.”
- True mental calmness lies in His remembrance.
Allah is the Creator of this entire universe and all the blessings we are given. To find peace in these blessings, we must thank Allah daily — for our families, children, parents, health, wealth, and everything we enjoy.
“And whoever turns away from My remembrance — indeed, he will have a depressed life, and We will gather him on the Day of Resurrection blind.” [20:124]
Those who are suffering from severe mental health issues, who do not find any particular reason for always being depressed or disturbed, should turn to Allah for help. People with such struggles need to look at their issues in the light of the Qur’an, because there is hope and cure in Islam to overcome these problems.
“Allah is the protector of those who have faith. He will lead them from the depths of darkness into light. As for those who disbelieve, their patrons are devils: from the light, they will lead them forth into the depths of darkness. They will be the companions of the fire, to dwell therein forever.” [2:257]
We must keep our faith in Allah no matter what, because He is the only One who has the solution to every difficulty. The only condition is to have strong faith in Allah and to trust Him in every situation.
