Auto-translated

Feeling distant from my iman and unsure how to reconnect

As-salamu alaykum, everyone. I've been struggling with my iman for the past three years. I became Muslim six years ago after living abroad and learning about Islam, which just made more sense to me as a former Christian. Back then, I wasn't the most practicing Christian-I didn't go to church much, but I read the Bible and prayed sometimes-yet I always felt close to Allah. I embraced Islam quickly, started wearing hijab, and tried to practice more, but now I feel like I pushed myself too hard too soon. Lately, I feel like a fraud. Islam doesn't feel like it's truly mine anymore. I don't find peace in the mosque like I did in church, reading the Quran doesn't bring me joy like the Bible did, and my prayers feel robotic-I'm just repeating words without feeling connected. I'm only praying out of fear, worried that if I died tomorrow, at least I could say I prayed. Recently, I've lost motivation entirely: I miss Fajr often, don't feel guilty about it, and even wished Ramadan would end quickly this year. What makes it harder is that I have an 8-month-old son. I'm trying to be a good Muslim on the outside just for him-playing Quran and nasheeds at home, praying when he's calm so he sees us, teaching him Islamic phrases like mashallah and alhamdulillah. But deep down, I feel like I'm only doing it for his sake. Without him, would I even be practicing? I miss parts of my past: having an occasional drink to relax, dressing more comfortably in warm weather, and my best friend who I gradually stopped talking to after reverting to focus on being a better Muslim. I miss feeling like I had a real connection to religion. When I ask for advice, I often get harsh responses telling me I'm sinning or out of Islam, which just pushes me away. I still believe in Islam-I just don't feel connected and find it hard to practice. Practical advice would help; being told to move to a Muslim country isn't feasible with my family, jobs, and home here. I also get advised to make lots of dua, and I have been sincerely for three years, praying for help during tahajjud and every Ramadan, but things only seem to get worse. I'm at a loss. My husband is supportive, but it makes me feel trapped because I'm doing things I don't want to. I don't want to leave Islam-I want to improve-but I wish I could take a break from praying to focus on myself and sort out my feelings, though I know that might make things harder. I just don't know what to do anymore.

+95

Comments

Share your perspective with the community.

Auto-translated

I feel you, especially on the robotic prayers part. It's a phase many go through. Don't give up.

+2
Auto-translated

Your honesty is brave. You're not alone in this feeling. Maybe seek out a supportive, non-judgmental circle of sisters locally? A real, kind community can change everything.

+6
Auto-translated

Sis, first of all, hugs. You are not a fraud. The shaytan whispers these doubts. The fact you're trying, even for your son, is a big deal. Your dua is heard.

+6
Auto-translated

I understand the pressure, especially with a new baby. Try making dhikr in small moments, like when you're rocking him to sleep. It can feel more personal than structured salah sometimes.

+3
Auto-translated

Please ignore the harsh comments. Your struggle is your proof of iman. Maybe try learning the meanings of the salah and Quran verses you read. It helped me feel the connection again.

+2
Auto-translated

So much of your story resonates with me. It's a journey. Be gentle with yourself, sister. Allah is the Most Merciful.

0
Auto-translated

Been there. Sometimes we need to step back to breathe and see things clearly. Maybe focus on small, sincere acts for now.

0

Add a new comment

Log in to leave a comment