6 Reasons Your Iman Feels Low - And Practical Ways to Raise It, bismillah
1. You rarely remember Allah: Our hearts need dhikr like plants need water. When we forget Allah, the heart becomes hard and distant. Try to make morning and evening adhkar a habit - they protect against shaytan and sudden trials, and their timing helps you stay consistent. Even small, regular remembrance helps restore softness. 2. Untended sins: If you don’t return to Allah often, sins accumulate and leave stains on the heart. Make istighfar part of your routine - you could aim for a short set after each prayer (use a finger counter if it helps) so it doesn’t take long. The Prophet (ﷺ) taught that constant seeking of pardon brings ease, relief from distress, and unexpected provision. 3. Bad company: Even if you don’t join in wrongdoing, spending time with the wrong people affects you. The Prophet (ﷺ) likened good and bad company to a seller of perfume and a blacksmith: one leaves you with a pleasant scent, the other with a foul smell. Steer clear of harmful circles, visit the masjid more, and build friendships with people who remind you of Allah. Those whose hearts are tied to the masjid are promised special shade on the Day of Judgment. 4. Persistent doubt: There’s a difference between fleeting whispers and dwelling on doubts until they take root. Shaytan uses doubts to mislead - don’t assume every whisper belongs to you. Push them away, seek sincere knowledge that clears confusion, and avoid media or content that feeds uncertainty in your faith. Don’t put yourself in situations of fitna thinking you can handle it. 5. Overindulgence in food and sleep: Even halal pleasures can weaken resolve when they become excess. The Prophet (ﷺ) reminded us that we shouldn’t overfill our stomachs; moderation helps keep worship and energy levels healthy. Try eating and sleeping in balance so you have the strength for prayer, dhikr, and good deeds. 6. Holding onto envy: When jealousy rises, say “Allahumma barik” (may Allah bless them) and mean it, and remind yourself of those with less than you. Gratitude expands blessings; jealousy closes doors. Use your blessings to serve others and fulfill your responsibilities, and be thankful in heart and action. As the Qur’an teaches, thanks brings increase. May Allah soften our hearts, accept our repentance, and help us increase our iman. A little consistent effort goes a long way - start with one habit today, and ask Allah to make it easy.