Sadness and its Position from the Perspective of the Holy Quran

He who makes a Muslim believer happy, has pleased first Allah, secondly the Prophet, and thirdly us (Ahl al-Bayt).
Musa ibn Ja’far al-Kazim (as)

The Grand Quran, Islam’s holy book, addresses the emotional and psychological part of human life, sadness included.

By comprehension of how Quran approaches sadness, profound insights and guidance can be provided to believers undergoing different hardships and problems. This article explores the concept of sadness from the Quranic perspective, drawing on classical and contemporary Tafsir (exegesis) to elucidate how the Pure Quran advises handling and overcoming sadness.

Sadness in the Grand Quran

The Grand Quran, Islam’s holy book, addresses the emotional and psychological part of human life, sadness included. By comprehension of how Quran approaches sadness, profound insights and guidance can be provided to believers undergoing different hardships and problems. This article explores the concept of sadness from the Quranic perspective, drawing on classical and contemporary Tafsir (exegesis) to elucidate how the Pure Quran advises handling and overcoming sadness.

Examples of Sadness in the Sacred Quran

1. Prophet Yaqub (Jacob)
   The story of Prophet Yaqub and his profound sadness over the loss of his son Yusuf (Joseph) is a powerful narrative in the Noble Quran. Yaqub’s grief is poignantly described: “And he turned away from them and said, ‘Oh, my sorrow over Joseph,’ and his eyes became white from grief, for he was of that a suppressor” (Quran 12:84). Despite his overwhelming sorrow, Yaqub’s steadfast faith in Allah’s wisdom and mercy remained unwavering, demonstrating how faith can coexist with sadness.
2. Prophet Yusuf (Joseph)
   Prophet Yusuf himself faced numerous trials that brought about sadness, from being betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery to being unjustly imprisoned. Yusuf’s story illustrates how sadness and hardship can be transformative, leading to ultimate success and fulfillment. His unwavering trust in Allah throughout his ordeals is encapsulated in his statement, “Indeed, my Lord is subtle in what He wills. Indeed, it is He who is the Knowing, the Wise” (Quran 12:100).
3. Prophet Muhammad (S)
   The Prophet Muhammad (S) experienced profound sadness, particularly during the Year of Sorrow, when he lost his beloved wife Khadijah and his uncle Abu Talib. The Holy Quran addressed his grief and provided him with solace: “So do not weaken and do not grieve, and you will be superior if you are [true] believers” (Quran 3:139). This verse underscores the importance of maintaining faith and resilience in the face of grief.

Quranic Guidance on Handling Sadness

1. Faith and Trust in Allah
   The Noble Quran underlines that having faith in the plan of Allah is indispensable, one of the cardinal principles highlighted in Surah 65:3 states that “And He will provide for him from sources he could never imagine.” It provides assurance that what we may not see as provision or an answer to prayer could actually be so due to some divine arrangement which is beyond human ken even during times when all seems lost. By placing our trust in Allah’s wisdom and mercy, we can find comfort and solace during times of sadness.
   Another important aspect of handling sadness according to Quranic guidance is the practice of patience. Surah 2:153 advises, “O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer.” Patience is a virtue that helps us endure hardship with grace and resilience. By remaining patient and steadfast in our faith during difficult times, we can overcome sadness and emerge stronger than before.
   Believers are reminded that Allah is always with them and that He is the ultimate source of comfort and support: “So do not weaken and do not grieve, and you will be superior if you are [true] believers” (Quran 3:139).
2. Patience and Perseverance
   “Perseverance and patience are two major qualities stressed by the Glorious Quran in terms of coping with sadness and calamity. These are deemed important during difficult times, because through them, a believer is able to retain faith and confidence in Allah.”
   One of the key verses in the Sacred Quran that highlights the importance of patience is found in Surah Al-Baqarah, where Allah says, “O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient” (2:153). This verse reminds believers to turn to patience and prayer as a means of seeking comfort and strength during times of distress.
   Furthermore, the concept of perseverance is also emphasized throughout Quran. In Surah Al-Imran, Allah says, “And give good tidings to those who are patient” (3:200). This verse serves as a reminder that those who remain steadfast in their faith and endure hardships with patience will be rewarded by Allah.
   By embodying these qualities of patience and perseverance, individuals can navigate through periods of sadness with grace and resilience. Rather than succumbing to despair or hopelessness, practicing sabr allows one to maintain a sense of hope and trust in Allah’s plan. This verse highlights that patience, coupled with regular prayer, can provide strength and resilience during times of sorrow.
3. Remembrance of Allah
   In times of sadness, Allah’s remembrance helps guide Muslims by offering comfort. It is a principal idea triggering solace and direction. According to the Noble Quran, there is peace in remembering Allah frequently because it soothes hearts and acts as solace during hard moments. Through remembrance dhikr reinforces the bond with Allah among believers, who could thus approach Him for assistance in battling their grief.
   When faced with sadness or distress, turning to Dhikr can offer a sense of relief and reassurance. Reciting the names of Allah, praising Him, and seeking forgiveness can help alleviate feelings of despair and anxiety grief. The act of Dhikr serves as a reminder that Allah is always near, listening to our prayers and ready to provide support when needed.
   The Quranic guidance on handling sadness through Dhikr encourages believers to have faith in Allah’s wisdom and mercy. By constantly remembering Allah through prayers, recitations, and supplications, Muslims can find strength in their faith and trust that He will ease their burdens. Dhikr acts as a spiritual remedy for the heart, bringing peace and contentment amidst life’s trials. Regular remembrance of Allah helps to soothe the heart and provides a sense of peace and comfort.

4. Gratitude
   Sadness or hardship can drive us into despair to the point that it makes it difficult to remember the good things in our lives. However, through showing appreciation according to Quranic verses, we can feel contentment and peace inside us. Gratitude helps us see the small gifts that people sometimes overlook because they are overshadowed by their endless pain.
   Furthermore, expressing gratitude can help us cope with sadness by fostering a sense of resilience and hope. When we focus on what we are thankful for, it reminds us that there is always something to be grateful for, even in the darkest moments. This positive mindset can give us the strength to persevere through difficult times and find solace in knowing that Allah’s mercy is always present. The Heavenly Quran advises, “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, my punishment is severe” (Quran 14:7).
5. Seeking Support from the Community
   It is possible that the verse “And help one another in goodness and piety and do not help one another in sin and transgression” (Quran 5:2) emphasizes the importance of brotherhood in faith. The Sacred Quran gives counsel to faithful people that they should bear each other’s burdens, particularly when things are hard with oneself since this kind of support system creates passionate mental states that promote overall healthiness being.

Insights from Tafsir on Sadness

1. Tafsir Ibn Kathir
   Ibn Kathir’s Tafsir elaborates on the stories of the prophets, providing deeper insights into their emotional states and responses to sadness. For example, regarding Yaqub’s grief, Ibn Kathir explains that his sorrow was profound, but it did not lead him to despair; instead, it strengthened his reliance on Allah.
2. Tafsir Al-Tabari
   Al-Tabari’s Tafsir provides historical and contextual analyses of Quranic verses related to sadness. His interpretation of the verses concerning the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) grief offers valuable insights into how the early Muslim community understood and supported each other through times of sorrow.
3. Tafsir Al-Qurtubi
   Al-Qurtubi’s Tafsir emphasizes the importance of patience and trust in Allah. His commentary on verses related to sadness often highlights the spiritual growth and strengthening of faith that can result from enduring trials with patience.

Practical Applications in Modern Life

1. Mental Health and Faith
   In the Quranic perspective on sadness, one essential concept is that sadness is natural as it results from trials and tribulations. Surah Al-Baqarah 2:155 states that, “We shall certainly test you with fear and hunger, and loss of lives, of wealth, and fruits.” However, the verse encourages believers to be patient during hard times as well as have faith in Allah’s will.
   Another important aspect of the Quranic perspective on sadness is seeking comfort through prayer and supplication. Surah Ar-Rad 13:28 reminds believers to “Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.” By turning to Allah in times of distress, individuals can find peace and strength to overcome their struggles.
   In addition, seeking support from others within the Muslim community can also be beneficial for managing feelings of sadness. Surah Al-Asr 103:3 highlights the importance of companionship by stating, “And enjoin upon one another truthfulness.” By surrounding oneself with supportive friends and family members who share similar beliefs, individuals can find encouragement and solidarity during difficult times. Integrating spiritual practices like prayer, Dhikr, and gratitude with modern therapeutic techniques can provide holistic support for those experiencing sadness.

2. Community Support
   Community support and faith in the Sacred Quran on sadness are critical in its practical applications. In Islam, sadness is regarded as a natural feeling that can be controlled by taking consolation from Allah through prayer, reflecting upon his words as contained in Quran as well as seeking comfort from relatives and allies. Quran guides its believers on turning to Allah during difficult moments in life while having the belief that he will be their source of strength as well as giver of direction.
   One practical way to apply the Quranic perspective on sadness is through seeking support from one’s community. In Islam, believers are encouraged to come together in times of difficulty to offer each other emotional support, guidance, and encouragement. By surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals who share similar beliefs and values, one can find comfort and reassurance that they are not alone in their struggles.
   Faith also plays a significant role in managing sadness according to the Holy Quran. Believers are taught to have trust in Allah’s plan and to believe that He has a greater purpose for their suffering. By maintaining strong faith and seeking solace in prayer, individuals can find peace amidst their sorrow and trust that Allah will guide them through their hardships.Social networks and community organizations can play a vital role in providing emotional support and fostering resilience among individuals facing sadness.
3. Positive Mindset
   When facing challenges and hardships in life, maintaining a positive mindset and having faith are essential tools that can help individuals navigate through difficult times. In the Noble Quran, there are numerous verses that provide guidance on how to deal with sadness and adversity. By understanding and applying the Quranic perspective on sadness, individuals can cultivate a sense of resilience and strength that will enable them to overcome obstacles with grace and perseverance.
   One of the key teachings of the Holy Quran is the importance of trusting in Allah’s plan and having faith that everything happens for a reason. This belief can serve as a source of comfort during times of distress, reminding individuals that they are not alone in their struggles. By surrendering to Allah’s will and accepting whatever challenges come their way, individuals can find solace in knowing that there is a greater purpose behind their suffering.
   Furthermore, the Sacred Quran emphasizes the power of positive thinking and maintaining a hopeful outlook even in the face of adversity. Verses such as “Indeed, with hardship comes ease” (Quran 94:6) remind believers that every difficulty they face is ultimately temporary and will be followed by relief. By focusing on the potential for growth and transformation that comes from overcoming challenges, individuals can shift their perspective from one of despair to one of optimism. Practicing gratitude daily, even for small blessings, can significantly improve emotional well-being and resilience.
4. Seeking Professional Help
   While spiritual practices are essential, the Grand Quran also encourages seeking knowledge and assistance. In cases of severe sadness or depression, seeking help from mental health professionals should be seen as a proactive step supported by Islamic teachings.
   In Conclusion Sadness is a natural and inevitable part of human life, and the Holy Quran provides valuable guidance on how to navigate this emotion. Through the examples of prophets and the principles outlined in Quran, believers can find solace, strength, and resilience in the face of sorrow. By integrating faith, patience, gratitude, and community support, individuals can effectively manage and overcome sadness. For those seeking a deeper understanding of the Quranic perspective on sadness and other aspects of life, the Tafsir courses at DarulQuran Academy offer a unique opportunity to enhance their knowledge and spiritual growth.