How to remain calm in the face of people's judgments?

Encountering the judgments and opinions of others is an almost universal human experience. While some judgments can be constructive and beneficial, many are often hurtful, unfair, and even destructive. In today’s world, where social media and instant communication have exposed individuals to scrutiny and criticism more than ever before, knowing how to maintain composure in the face of these judgments becomes paramount. The Holy Quran, as a book of guidance and light, offers profound and wise solutions for achieving inner peace and spiritual resilience when confronted with external challenges, including people’s judgments. These teachings are not only applicable to Muslims but to anyone seeking inner peace and spiritual elevation. First and perhaps the most crucial principle emphasized by the Quran is the concept of 'Trust in Allah' (Tawakkul) and 'Absolute Reliance on His Judgment.' The Quran repeatedly reminds us that ultimate and absolute judgment belongs solely to Allah. A person should sincerely dedicate their intentions to pleasing the Almighty and perform their actions not to gain human admiration, but to seek divine approval. This perspective liberates an individual from the prison of people's expectations and judgments. When one is confident that Allah sees and knows their intentions and deeds, they no longer need validation or fear condemnation from creation. In Surah Az-Zumar, verse 36, Allah asks, "Is not Allah sufficient for His Servant?" This rhetorical question powerfully conveys its own answer: "Yes, Allah is sufficient." When this belief takes root in one's heart – that Allah the Almighty is their Protector and Supporter, and His judgment is the only criterion – then the judgments of people, whether positive or negative, will no longer disturb their tranquility. If people praise them, they do not become arrogant; if they condemn them, they do not despair, because their standard is the pleasure of their Lord, not the fleeting and variable gaze of humans. Secondly, 'patience and steadfastness' (Sabr and Istiqamah) are vital. The Holy Quran repeatedly advises believers to exercise patience in the face of hardships and adversities. Unfair judgments and accusations are part of divine tests. Prophets throughout history, such as Noah, Abraham, Moses, and especially Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), consistently faced accusations, mockery, and unjust judgments from their people. Their lives are replete with examples demonstrating how they stood firm with patience and perseverance against persecution and negative judgments, never deviating from the path of truth. In Surah Hud, verse 112, Allah says: "So remain on a straight course as you have been commanded, [you] and those who have turned back with you [to Allah], and do not transgress." This verse not only emphasizes steadfastness on the path of truth but implicitly suggests that this path will involve trials and judgments that require endurance. Patience here is not passive endurance but active resilience, maintaining inner calm even as a storm of judgments rages externally. This patience helps an individual keep their roots of faith and tranquility firm against the destructive waves of public opinion. Thirdly, a Quranic solution is 'ignoring or responding with the best manner.' The Quran teaches believers that in response to the ignorant and those who speak vainly, the best answer is silence or simply saying "peace." This does not mean surrender or endorsement of falsehood, but rather a sign of wisdom, nobility, and preservation of one’s mental energy. In Surah Al-Furqan, verse 63, describing 'Ibad-ur-Rahman' (the servants of the Most Merciful), it states: "And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth easily, and when the ignorant address them, they say, 'Peace.'" This verse clearly indicates that the best reaction to ignorance and baseless judgments is to avoid entering into fruitless arguments and to maintain peace and dignity. We should not expend our energy defending ourselves against every baseless judgment but save it for more important tasks and for connecting with Allah. Furthermore, in Surah Fussilat, verse 34 advises believers to "repel [evil] with that which is better." This approach can include responding with kindness, forgiveness, or simply turning away gracefully. By doing so, we not only preserve our own tranquility but may also positively influence the heart of the person making the judgment. Fourth, the principle of 'focusing on self-improvement and purifying intentions' is crucial. Instead of being preoccupied with others' judgments, the Quran invites individuals to introspection and to rectify their own actions and intentions. If a person dedicates all their effort to observing piety, good morals, and fulfilling divine obligations, there remains no room for worrying about external judgments. A person's worth in the sight of Allah is not based on their appearance or people's opinions, but on their piety, ethics, and righteous deeds. This perspective transforms an individual from being 'a person for people' into 'a person for Allah.' When intentions become pure and actions are performed for Allah's pleasure, the heart finds tranquility because it has the best Judge and the best Supporter. This approach narrows the sphere of influence of external judgments and empowers an individual to evaluate themselves based on divine standards, rather than the superficial and often flawed views of people. Finally, recognizing the transient nature of this world and the permanence of the Hereafter helps a person take people's judgments less seriously. This world and everything in it is fleeting, and only sincere actions and intentions remain for the Hereafter. This broader perspective diminishes the significance of worldly judgments and brings profound peace to the heart. By relying on these Quranic principles, one can build a wall of inner tranquility against the storm of people's judgments and continue on the path of life with a confident heart and a serene soul. This peace is a gift from Allah to those servants who recognize Him alone as the Judge and seek only His pleasure.