Is a guilty conscience always good?

From the perspective of the Holy Quran, the question of whether a guilty conscience is always good requires a nuanced and multi-faceted approach. The Quran does not directly use the term 'guilty conscience' but refers to the concept of 'Nafs al-Lawwamah' or 'the reproaching soul,' which closely aligns with the idea of conscience and its role in awakening humanity from negligence and error. In Surah Al-Qiyamah, verse 2, Allah states: "And I swear by the reproaching soul." This verse indicates that the existence of an inner force for self-reproach is one of humanity's significant characteristics, and Allah swears by it, signifying its importance and stature. From a Quranic viewpoint, conscience or 'Nafs al-Lawwamah' is an intrinsic, divinely bestowed mechanism that guides human beings toward truth and rectitude. When an individual commits a mistake or a sin, this inner voice awakens them, makes them aware of their error, and prompts them towards remorse and return. In this sense, a guilty conscience is a vital sign, an indicator of the soul's health and a person's pure innate nature (fitra). This unpleasant feeling is not meant for futile torment but to generate a strong motivation for correction and repentance. Much like physical pain signals illness and prompts us to seek treatment, a guilty conscience signals a spiritual ailment, inviting us to seek healing and return to the right path. If a person never feels discomfort or regret for their wrongdoings, it signifies the death of conscience and hardness of heart, which is considered highly undesirable and dangerous in the Quran. The constructive role of a guilty conscience becomes evident when this feeling compels an individual toward 'Tawbah Nasuh' (sincere and pure repentance) and making amends for their mistakes. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of repentance and returning to Allah. In Surah Aal-Imran, verse 135, it states: "And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves, remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins — and who can forgive sins except Allah? — and [who] do not persistently remain upon what they have done, while they know." This verse clearly shows that remembering Allah and seeking forgiveness after committing a sin is the path to which an awakened conscience invites, and its purpose is self-correction and receiving divine forgiveness. Therefore, if a guilty conscience leads to action – that is, if it prompts an individual to abandon sin, make restitution (if applicable), and change their behavior – then it is certainly 'good' and constructive. However, is it always good? The answer to this question becomes a bit more complex. If a guilty conscience, instead of being a catalyst for change and repentance, leads to a state of despair, paralysis, chronic depression, or excessive self-blame without any positive action, then it can be destructive. The Holy Quran warns believers not to despair of Allah's mercy. In Surah Az-Zumar, verse 53, it says: "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 verse delivers a firm message to those who might fall into despair of divine forgiveness due to the weight of their sins, potentially turning their guilty conscience from a guide into a trap for spiritual destruction. Thus, a healthy and effective conscience is one that, by recalling misdeeds, calls a person to accountability, repentance, correction, and a return to the path of divine guidance. This type of guilty conscience is a divine blessing and an internal guardian that prevents a person from falling into ruin and guides them towards spiritual growth and closeness to Allah. However, if this feeling turns into a pathological obsession, endless suffering, or becomes paralyzing, hindering forward movement and hope in Allah's mercy, then it loses its constructive function and can even be harmful. In such cases, the individual needs a correct understanding of the vastness of Allah's mercy and their own will to change. Ultimately, a guilty conscience is 'good' only as long as it acts as a guiding light, not a chain that prevents movement. It is a tool for self-improvement, not an end in itself for sinking into despair.