Does Faith Always Have to Create a Good Feeling?

Does faith always have to create a good feeling? This is a profound question that delves into the very nature of faith and its relationship with human experiences. In addressing this query, it's essential to look beyond superficial definitions of "good feeling" and delve into the profound teachings of the Holy Quran. The Quran teaches us that faith (Iman) is not merely a fleeting emotion or a momentary thrill, but a deep-seated conviction, a lasting commitment, and a driving force for righteous action and patience in the face of adversity. Therefore, expecting faith to always generate a pleasant and joyful feeling is an incomplete and sometimes misleading expectation. Human life is inherently intertwined with ups and downs, joys and sorrows, successes and failures; and true faith precisely reveals its value amidst these turbulences. The Holy Quran, in numerous verses, refers to the trials and hardships that believers will inevitably face. These trials are not only meant to test faith and ascertain the sincerity of its claimants but also to purify the soul and refine human character, bringing individuals closer to perfection and divine proximity. Allah Almighty states in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 155: "And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient." This verse clearly indicates that the life of a believer is interspersed with challenges, calamities, and losses. During such times, an individual may experience fear, sadness, anxiety, or profound loss, and these feelings are entirely natural and human. Does this signify a flaw in their faith? No, on the contrary, true faith manifests itself precisely in these difficult moments; a faith that, instead of sinking into negative emotions and succumbing to despair, calls the individual to patience, steadfastness, and absolute reliance on God. Here, faith becomes not an anesthetic to remove pain, but a strength to endure and overcome it. Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut, verses 2 and 3, we read: "Do people think that they will be left alone because they say, 'We believe,' and will not be tested? But We have certainly tested those before them, and Allah will surely make evident those who are truthful and will surely make evident the liars." These verses emphasize that trials and difficulties are an inseparable part of the path of faith, and no one is exempt from them. During these trials, our emotions may fluctuate; joy, sorrow, hope, despair – all these can be in flux. But true faith is that heart which remains dependent on Allah in every condition and trusts in His promises. This trust itself is a source of deep tranquility, even if a momentary "good feeling," in the sense of superficial happiness and cheerfulness, may not be present. This deep peace stems from the certainty that nothing happens without divine permission and wisdom, and that there is goodness hidden in whatever comes to pass. Therefore, although faith can often bring a sense of peace, hope, security, and even joy, this does not mean that a believer must always be in a state of euphoria or absolute contentment with external circumstances. Sometimes, faith guides us towards responsibilities that may be difficult or even painful, such as struggling against injustice and corruption, sacrificing personal interests for the sake of Allah, or enduring suffering and hardship to defend truth and justice. In these cases, a "good feeling" might not be directly experienced in the moment, but a deeper satisfaction from fulfilling a divine duty, hope for eternal reward, and the peace of conscience from being on the right path replace it. These deeper feelings are more stable, enduring, and valuable than any fleeting "good feeling." True faith, transcending momentary emotions, bestows inner stability and resilience upon a person, making them resistant to the shocks of life. In Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 28, it is stated: "Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured." This tranquility (sakinah) is different from a superficial "good feeling." It is a certainty rooted in the depths of one's being that does not abandon them even in the storms of life. This means that even when we are sad, when the loss of a loved one pains us, or when we are in financial distress and feel unhappy, faith in Allah, His justice, and hope in His boundless mercy provide us with a point of reliance that prevents complete spiritual and psychological collapse. This tranquility is the internal reward of faith that accompanies the believer in every circumstance. In conclusion, faith does not necessarily mean the continuous experience of a "good feeling" in the common and superficial sense of the word. Rather, faith is a force that helps us confront the ups and downs of life, learn from them, grow, and move towards perfection. The true good feeling that faith brings is a sense of inner satisfaction, peace of heart, and assurance in divine aid and providence; even in moments when external conditions are not favorable and our human emotions might be in turmoil. It is this faith that enables us to remain steadfast on the path of truth, even if this path involves suffering and hardship. It is this faith that promises us that the end of the journey for the patient and those who rely on Allah is goodness and salvation. Therefore, instead of seeking momentary and fleeting good feelings, let us pursue deep and lasting faith that grants us true stability and peace in all circumstances. This stability itself is the highest form of "good feeling," transcending any emotional fluctuation and bestowing upon a person the power to live a life of meaning and purpose.