Is Optimism in Conflict with Realism?

From the perspective of the Holy Quran and the comprehensive teachings of Islam, optimism and realism are not contradictory; rather, they are two sides of the same coin, mutually essential for a balanced, purposeful, and fruitful life. Islam teaches us to always be hopeful of Allah's mercy and grace and to look at the future with a positive outlook, yet at the same time, not to ignore the realities of life, its challenges, and the necessity of effort and planning. This harmony between optimism and realism forms the basis of a healthy spiritual and practical life. Optimism from the Quranic Perspective: Hope in Divine Mercy and Goodness of Thought towards Allah The Holy Quran strongly prohibits despair and encourages believers to have hope in the vast divine mercy. This hope is the essence of optimism in Islam. In Surah Az-Zumar, verse 53, Allah says: "Say, 'O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by committing sins], 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 is not only an invitation to repentance and return but also a clear message about the necessity of optimism and not losing hope in divine grace and generosity. Even at the height of sin and error, the door of divine mercy is open, and this in itself is a strong reason for optimism. Optimism in Islam is rooted in 'Husn al-Dhann billah,' which means having good and positive thoughts about Allah's actions and decrees. A true believer holds the conviction that whatever comes from Allah, whether seemingly pleasant or unpleasant, is filled with wisdom and goodness. This perspective helps an individual to be patient in the face of hardships and difficulties and to look towards the future with a hopeful spirit. Prophet Yaqub (Jacob, peace be upon him) tells his sons in Surah Yusuf, verse 87: "O my sons, go and find out about Joseph and his brother and do not despair of the relief from Allah. Indeed, no one despairs of relief from Allah except the disbelieving people." This is a striking example of optimism amidst extreme hardship and separation, which never leads to despair. Realism in Islam: Acceptance of Realities and the Necessity of Effort Alongside optimism, the Quran heavily emphasizes realism and a correct understanding of the world and life. Islam reminds us that this world is transient, and one should never be surprised or deceived by its allure. Allah says in 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." This verse clearly states that tribulations and tests are an inseparable part of worldly life, and a realistic person must accept this truth. Realism in Islam means not being negligent of facts and the necessity of effort and planning. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Tie your camel and then trust in Allah." This noble Hadith signifies that reliance on Allah (which is a form of optimism and hope for divine help) should never prevent effort, planning, and considering apparent means. The Quran also repeatedly emphasizes the importance of preparation and effort. In Surah Al-Anfal, verse 60, we read: "And prepare against them whatever you are able of power and of steeds of war by which you may terrify the enemy of Allah and your enemy..." This verse explicitly stresses the need for preparedness, strength, and planning; something directly related to realism. Ignoring the enemy and lacking preparation is not optimism but heedlessness, and it will certainly lead to severe consequences. Balance and Synergy: Realistic Optimism Islam teaches us a 'realistic optimism.' This means we should hope for good outcomes in affairs, but at the same time, we should pursue that outcome through realistic effort and planning. This approach helps the believer to: 1. Perseverance in the Face of Challenges: When we realistically accept that life comes with difficulties (And We will surely test you with something of fear...), internal optimism based on divine mercy (do not despair of the mercy of Allah) enables us to overcome them with patience (give good tidings to the patient) and continuous effort. 2. Avoidance of Extremes: Not only is blind optimism, which prevents an individual from making an effort, condemned, but also realism that leads to utter despair and inaction has no place in Islam. Islam invites to moderation. 3. Appreciation and Gratitude: A realistic person sees existing blessings and is grateful for them, while optimism helps them understand the place of divine wisdom and grace in every situation, even during hardships. 4. Planning and Practical Action: Belief in God's help never means abstaining from work and effort. Rather, true reliance on God means fulfilling all duties and then entrusting the outcome to God. This is the intelligent combination of optimism and realism. In conclusion, it can be said that optimism and realism in Islam are not contradictory; instead, they are complementary. Optimism without realism can lead to fantasizing and inaction, while realism without optimism might lead to despair and frustration. Islam teaches us to look at the world with open eyes, accept its realities, but never to neglect the light of hope in the boundless divine mercy. This combination paves the way for success in this world and the hereafter and grants humanity immense power to face all aspects of life.