How can I get rid of negative thoughts?

Negative thoughts are a common part of the human experience, yet the Holy Quran offers profound and effective strategies to manage and overcome them. These strategies are rooted in strengthening faith, fostering a deep connection with God, and transforming one's inner perspective. The Quran teaches us that the origin of many negative thoughts can be attributed to the whispers of Satan, and through reliance on Allah, one can find liberation from them. The first, and perhaps most crucial, Quranic strategy for combating negative thoughts is 'Dhikr' or the remembrance of Allah. In Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 28, Allah Almighty states: "Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured." This verse unveils a fundamental truth: true tranquility of the heart is found in the remembrance of Allah. Dhikr is not merely the repetition of words; it is a continuous state of awareness of God's presence and power. When the mind is occupied with the remembrance of Allah, there is no room left for negative and disturbing thoughts to proliferate. This constant reminder of the Divine presence and power instills a sense of security, hope, and peace in a person, even in challenging circumstances. Dhikr can encompass reciting the Quran, making supplications (Du'a), glorifying Allah (Tasbih), and contemplating His signs. The stronger one's connection with the Creator, the less susceptible one becomes to the negative currents of the world. The second strategy involves seeking help through patience and prayer. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 153, it is stated: "O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient." Negative thoughts often emerge when individuals face problems, challenges, and impatience in the face of difficulties. Patience (Sabr) means steadfastness and resilience in the face of adversity, not passivity. When a person adopts patience, it signifies that they are resisting problems and not losing hope. Prayer (Salat), too, is not merely an act of worship but a spiritual sanctuary. In prayer, one becomes detached from worldly concerns and turns their entire being towards the Creator. These moments of direct communion with Allah bestow strength, peace, and a fresh perspective to solve problems, purifying the mind from tempting and toxic thoughts. Prayer reminds us that we are not alone and can always rely on an infinite power. This spiritual reliance weakens the foundation of negative thoughts. The third significant strategy is seeking refuge with Allah from the accursed Satan. The Quran refers to this matter in several verses. For example, in Surah An-Nahl, verse 98, we read: "So when you recite the Qur'an, [first] seek refuge in Allah from Satan, the expelled [from His mercy]." This verse indicates that Satan is the primary source of whispers and negative thoughts, seeking to mislead humans and instill despair and hopelessness in their hearts. Seeking refuge with Allah (Istia'adha) is a conscious act to sever ties with this source of evil. It implies understanding that negative thoughts do not always originate from within us; they might be suggestions from a tempting force. By saying "A'udhu Billahi minash-Shaitanir-Rajim" (I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed Satan), we actively cut off our connection with any negative source and place ourselves under Divine protection. This acts as a spiritual cleansing, helping us distinguish intrusive and destructive thoughts from our own and recognize them as something external that needs to be repelled. This act is a form of spiritual self-awareness that empowers an individual to have greater control over their mental content. Furthermore, other concepts such as 'Tawakkul' (complete reliance on Allah in all matters), 'Shukr' (gratitude – seeing blessings and focusing on the positive aspects of life), and 'contemplation of Divine signs' (recognizing the grandeur of creation and the Creator's power) also contribute to dispelling negative thoughts. Tawakkul lifts the heavy burden of worries and anxieties from a person's shoulders. When we rely on Allah, it means we believe that He is the best planner and will orchestrate outcomes in the best possible way. Gratitude shifts a person's focus towards their blessings and good fortune, leaving no room for dwelling on deficiencies and problems. Contemplation of creation also awakens a sense of God's grandeur and wisdom in the heart, making small worldly concerns seem insignificant. Finally, engaging in righteous deeds and serving others can also pull one out of negative cycles, as a person immediately feels the benefits in their life and society. The Quran teaches us that by changing our inner perspective, maintaining a continuous connection with Allah, and seeking refuge in Him, we can overcome the storm of negative thoughts and attain inner peace and certainty. This path is an ongoing journey towards spiritual and moral growth, the results of which are manifest in both worlds. Therefore, to be free from negative thoughts, one must turn to the source of peace, Allah Almighty, and by adhering to Quranic teachings, cleanse one's mind and heart from all impurities, illuminating it with the light of faith and certainty. This comprehensive approach leads not just to temporary relief but to a permanent state of inner peace and stability.