The Interconnection of a Practicing Muslim

The Body and Soul in Tandem

Allah (swt) created each soul uniquely, manifesting His creation on Earth as vicegerents with specific instructions. The body serves as the soul's workshop, providing an environment for its growth, with each influencing the other's development. As we navigate life's journey, we encounter various situations that strengthen our faith in Allah (swt). Each of us lead our lives with unique experiences, circumstances, and perspectives that play a crucial role in our spiritual growth and the maturity we attain as we work to deepen our faith. 

Spiritual Maturity Through Prayer and Patience
 
In Islam, spiritual maturity is a lifelong journey where individuals deepen their self-awareness through the fundamental practice of prayer and connecting with the Quran. It is a vital aspect of personal growth, reflecting our belief in unseen powers and adherence to Allah's path. Elements like our breath, heartbeat, and mental functioning serve as reminders of forces beyond our comprehension. This process is shaped by personal experiences, circumstances, and a series of trials and errors. Attaining this maturity is not easy; it requires enduring discomfort with patience, as some challenges take time to resolve.  

Cultural Influences and Individuality
Spiritual maturity is a complex journey influenced by both internal wisdom and external factors. From birth, our bodies possess innate knowledge, as seen in the pure curiosity of children who explore the world without judgment. This openness reflects our gift of free will—the ability to shape our lives. However, societal and cultural expectations can unconsciously limit this freedom.

Research in human development reveals that no individual perfectly fits the statistically average mold of their cohort, socioeconomic status, or culture. Each person is shaped by unique contexts that influence them differently depending on various factors such as age, situation, and family background. However, many customs and traditions passed down through generations often shape the belief that Muslims must conform to a specific mold or meet certain criteria.

As Muslims, it is important to refrain from assumptions and expectations from outer influences since every individual has distinct genes and experiences. Allah (swt) tells us in the Quran that He has diversified mankind for many reasons. One significant purpose is so that we may learn from each other. However, learning varies based on circumstances and experiences. Several factors can impact our mental health in a diverse setting, especially when struggling to understand our identity as Muslims:

Social Support: Feeling included and accepted is crucial, as opposed to feeling lonely and isolated.
Stigma and Discrimination: These can cause feelings of shame and significantly affect mental well-being.
Harassment or Bullying: Experiencing such behavior can have a devastating impact on self-esteem.
Social Comparison: Comparing ourselves to others can create negative thought patterns and affect mental health.
Social Pressure: The expectations and pressures in social settings can cause undue stress, whether we are aware of it or not.

The connection between emotions and thoughts significantly affects our cognitive processes, often overpowering rational thinking. This interplay can lead to psychological challenges such as cognitive dissonance and self-deprecation, both of which hinder spiritual maturity.

Cognitive dissonance occurs when societal expectations clash with religious or cultural traditions, resulting in mental discomfort. This tension can prompt us to question our faith and values. Similarly, self-deprecation involves an overly critical view of oneself, undermining confidence and self-worth.

"When we witness a particular characteristic as rancor, greed, anger, blaming etc from within ourselves, then that negative aspect is realized for a healing and discipline by one’s watchfulness of them. Hence we have to be ever vigilant of these negative temperaments that arise within ourselves for their transformation." (source: www.beautifulislam.net)

As naturally sensitive beings, this dissonance can make us vulnerable to developing egotistical traits that distance us from our true selves. The ego can obscure reality, as our inherent beliefs may not be strong enough to accept deeper truths.

For instance, a person raised with strong religious values may feel dissonance when societal pressures prioritize career success over family obligations or encourage behaviors that their traditions prohibit. This conflict can be particularly complicated for some Muslims, whose commitments may not align with mainstream societal norms.

As we progress, it is essential to look inward and disregard negative external influences. We must see beyond superficial appearances and recognize that true growth lies beyond what is visible. Just as our purification goes beyond the act of ablution; Allah's wisdom focuses on maintaining good intentions for ourselves and expecting great things from Him.

"O people of the Prophet's household, Allah intends only to remove from you the impurity, and to purify you with [extensive] purification."
Quran 33:33

For the Muslim community, embracing this responsibility and nurturing associated virtues demands time, care, and attention. Emphasizing the spiritual effort required for the ongoing maintenance and nourishment necessary to deepen our faith.

"Indeed he succeeds who purifies his own self…”
Quran 91:9

“Whosoever succeeds in knowing himself, will come to know His Lord.”
- Prophet Muhammad