How to Abandon Sins When They Are Pleasurable?

Confronting the fleeting pleasures of sin and striving to abandon them is one of the greatest internal struggles for a human being. The Holy Quran profoundly understands this reality and not only acknowledges this challenge but also provides deep and practical solutions to overcome it. Indeed, Allah Almighty knows that the human self is naturally inclined towards its desires, and Satan beautifies and makes these inclinations appear alluring. However, what the Quran teaches us is that the pleasure of sin, though it may seem sweet at the moment, is nothing but a mirage that ultimately leads to regret and remorse. In contrast, obedience to Allah, even if difficult at first, leads to eternal peace and felicity. The first and most fundamental step to breaking free from the snare of pleasurable sin is to deeply understand the transient and perishable nature of worldly pleasures. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes that this worldly life and everything within it are merely temporary and deceptive provisions. In Surah Al-Imran, verse 14, Allah says: “Beautified for people is the love of desires – of women and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, livestock and tilled land. That is the enjoyment of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return.” This verse illustrates that worldly desires and cravings, though they may appear adorned and beautiful, are simply transient provisions. True and lasting value lies in returning to Allah and earning His pleasure. The pleasure of sin is of this very nature: deceptive and temporary. The second crucial step is to strengthen 'Taqwa,' which refers to God-consciousness and piety. Taqwa not only means abstaining from forbidden acts but also encompasses feeling Allah's constant presence and being mindful of one's actions and thoughts. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 197, Allah says: “And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is righteousness (Taqwa).” Taqwa grants a person insight to foresee the immediate and distant consequences of sin, thus preventing them from sacrificing eternal bliss for momentary pleasure. When a person remembers that Allah is observing their deeds and that His reward and punishment are just, their capacity to resist sin increases. This continuous remembrance helps individuals, in moments of temptation, to have a stronger will to choose the right path and avoid succumbing to fleeting pleasures. The third solution is 'Sabr' (patience) and seeking assistance through it. Abandoning a sin that is pleasurable to the self requires immense patience and steadfastness. This patience is not merely about enduring hardship, but about steadfastness in the path of truth and not yielding to temptations. The Quran mentions the importance of patience in numerous verses. For example, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 153, Allah says: “O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.” This verse demonstrates that patience and prayer are two powerful pillars for confronting difficulties and temptations. Prayer is a connection with the Creator and a source of tranquility, granting a person supernatural strength to withstand the desires of the self, and patience is the tool that sustains this resistance. The fourth remedy is 'Dhikr' (remembrance) and constant recollection of Allah. The human heart naturally inclines towards what it loves, and if this love and attachment are towards Allah, there remains no room for the empty attachments of sin. "Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured" (Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 28). The remembrance of Allah, whether through speech or presence of heart, purifies the soul and mind, preventing Satan from taking root in one's heart and beautifying sin. When the heart is illuminated by the remembrance of Allah, the darkness of sin finds no place in it, and impure inclinations gradually fade away. This remembrance can include reciting the Quran, supplication (du'a), glorification (tasbih), and contemplating divine signs, all of which help strengthen the spiritual connection with Allah. The fifth point is 'Tawbah' (repentance) and continuous return to Allah. Even if a person falters at a moment and commits a sin, they should never despair. The door of repentance is always open, and Allah is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful. "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'" (Surah Az-Zumar, verse 53). Repentance not only cleanses sins but also provides an opportunity to rebuild one's relationship with Allah and strengthen resolve. This verse indicates that despairing of Allah's mercy is itself a greater sin; therefore, whenever we are tempted or even commit a sin, we must immediately return to Allah, feel remorse, and resolve not to repeat it. This sincere repentance, over time, causes the self to detest those false pleasures. Furthermore, choosing the right environment and company is of utmost importance. The Quran emphasizes avoiding idle gatherings and weak-faithed individuals. Associating with righteous people and those who keep the remembrance of Allah alive in their hearts helps a person on the path of piety and keeps them away from temptations. Also, replacing forbidden pleasures with lawful and pure pleasures is an effective way to abandon sin. A person can find true pleasure in acts of worship, serving others, seeking knowledge, exercising, enjoying nature, and other beneficial and Allah-pleasing activities. This substitution not only fills the void left by abandoning sin but also brings more lasting peace and blessings. Remember that abandoning sin is a journey, not a destination. With every step you take, you draw closer to Allah, and this closeness is the greatest pleasure that never ends. This inner struggle is part of the greater jihad (Jihad al-Akbar), whose reward is Allah's pleasure and proximity.