Does the Feeling of Failure Lead to Closeness to God?

The relationship between the feeling of failure and closeness to God requires deep reflection on Quranic teachings and the prophetic tradition. The Holy Quran does not directly state that 'the feeling of failure' in itself leads to closeness to God; rather, it is the individual's reaction and approach to failure that can either draw them closer to the divine presence or push them further away. In truth, failure can be a powerful catalyst for spiritual and moral transformation, but this transformation only occurs if the individual adopts a correct and Quranic perspective towards it. One of the most important lessons the Quran teaches us is that this worldly life is a realm of trials and tests. Allah mentions this truth in several verses, indicating that humans will be tested in this world, and these tests can include loss of wealth, physical hardships, or failures in worldly affairs. (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.") When an individual experiences the bitter taste of failure, their arrogance and self-conceit often crumble, and they realize their inherent weakness and inability before the infinite power of Allah. This humility and submissiveness is the first step towards returning to God. Failure prevents a person from relying solely on their limited abilities and compels them to turn to the true source of power and aid, which is Allah the Almighty. It is in these moments that supplication and sincere prayer emerge from the depths of the soul, establishing a more authentic and pure connection with the Creator. The Holy Quran instructs believers to seek help through patience and prayer when facing difficulties and problems (Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 153: "O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient."). Failure is also a type of hardship and trial. One who exercises patience in the face of failure, does not despair, and instead of blaming themselves or others, seeks to learn and rectify, is indeed moving on the path of drawing closer to God. Prayer and supplication in these circumstances are not only soothing to the heart but also a means of expressing helplessness and need to the Lord, and seeking guidance and aid from Him. This type of reliance on God, trust in His wisdom, and submission to His decree, enhances the depth of faith and leads to spiritual closeness. Furthermore, failure can lead to repentance and a return to God. Sometimes, failures are direct or indirect consequences of our sins, mistakes, or heedlessness. When a person faces the unpleasant consequences of their actions, this experience can lead them to genuine remorse and sincere repentance. Allah emphasizes in the Quran that the door of repentance is always open for His servants, and those who repent with sincere intention will be granted His mercy and forgiveness (Surah Az-Zumar, verse 53: "Say, 'O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.'"). This return and repentance is itself the pinnacle of closeness to God, for it signifies an admission of servitude, an acknowledgment of error, and hope in Allah's boundless mercy. Additionally, failure can lead to a sense of despair. However, the Quran strongly forbids despair and considers it a characteristic of disbelievers (Surah Yusuf, verse 87: "And do not despair of the relief of Allah. Indeed, no one despairs of the relief of Allah except the disbelieving people."). Instead, it emphasizes hope in divine grace and mercy. Although the feeling of failure might lead one to despair, a true believer knows that after every hardship, there is ease (Surah Al-Sharh, verses 5 and 6: "For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease. Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease."). This hope for divine assistance and relief, even at the peak of despair and the darkness of failure, is a light that guides the heart towards God and strengthens the spiritual connection. In conclusion, the feeling of failure itself is not the direct cause of closeness to God, but rather it is an opportunity that Allah provides for His servants to use as a springboard towards perfection and spiritual proximity. This is achieved through embracing humility, relying on God, patience and perseverance, sincere repentance, and hope in divine mercy. Failure removes the veil of self-conceit and paves the way for understanding the presence of the Lord and seeking refuge in Him, and thus it can be a deeply spiritual experience leading to divine proximity.