Is the topic of fear and security addressed in the Quran?

Yes, absolutely and extensively, the Holy Quran addresses the topics of fear and security. These two concepts are examined from various perspectives, contributing to both individual mental and spiritual well-being, and societal stability and peace. The Quran not only identifies different types of fears that humans encounter but also provides practical and spiritual solutions to overcome negative fears and achieve true security. On one hand, the Quran speaks of 'fear' in its positive sense, which is the 'fear of the Lord.' This fear is not born of terror and anxiety, but rather of awe, reverence, and submission to God. When a believer becomes aware of the greatness, power, and justice of God, a sacred fear arises in their heart that keeps them away from sins and directs them towards performing righteous deeds and drawing closer to God. This type of fear is a strong motivator for self-purification and piety. For instance, numerous verses emphasize the importance of taqwa (God-consciousness) and fear of the Day of Judgment, which compels individuals to be responsible and accountable for their actions. This fear is constructive and salvific, considered the key to achieving security in the afterlife. On the other hand, the Quran also refers to negative and destructive fears that often stem from weak faith and attachment to worldly matters. These fears include fear of poverty, fear of losing status, fear of an unknown future, fear of enemies, and fear of death. The Quran invites believers not to fear anything or anyone except God. It emphasizes that absolute power rests with God, and any other fear is insignificant compared to His power. This lack of fear towards anything other than God grants humans courage, self-respect, and steadfastness on the path of truth. For example, in the stories of the prophets and their struggles against oppressors, the Quran repeatedly mentions not fearing the threats of enemies and advises reliance on God's help. The Quran teaches us that Satan and his whispers constantly try to instill fear and despair in the human heart to deter them from God's path, but by trusting in God and remembering Him, these fears can be overcome. Opposite to the concept of fear is 'security.' The Quran considers security a great blessing from God, encompassing both physical safety and spiritual and psychological peace. True and lasting security is only achieved through sincere faith and righteous deeds. God repeatedly promises security and tranquility to His believing and righteous servants in the Quran. This security manifests in this world as peace of mind, protection from calamities and enemies, and the provision of lawful sustenance, and in the Hereafter as immunity from divine punishment and entry into Paradise. For instance, Surah Al-Quraysh mentions the security of Mecca from hunger and fear, which was a blessing from God for its inhabitants. Also, in Surah Al-An'am, verse 82, it is explicitly stated that those who believe and do not mix their faith with injustice, for them is security, and they are rightly guided. This verse clearly indicates that security is the result of an unbreakable link between faith, righteous deeds, and abstaining from injustice. Furthermore, the Quran outlines the pathways to achieving security. Among the most important are reliance on God (tawakkul), remembrance of Him (dhikr), establishing prayer (salat), giving zakat (charity), enjoining good and forbidding evil, and striving in the way of truth. When a person's heart finds tranquility in God and believes in His promises, they become free from worldly fears and attain spiritual security. This inner peace empowers them to face life's challenges and problems with a calm mind and a confident heart. Moreover, social and public security are also among the objectives of the Quran, achieved through establishing justice, respecting the rights of others, and implementing divine laws. A society founded on justice and faith will enjoy stable security and tranquility. In summary, the Holy Quran comprehensively and profoundly addresses the categories of fear and security. It categorizes fear into two types: constructive (fear of God) and destructive (fear of other than God), and provides ways to overcome negative fears. Conversely, it considers security a divine blessing and the result of faith and righteous deeds, granted to believers in both this world and the Hereafter. These teachings help individuals, by relying on God, to overcome their fears and achieve true peace and security, both individually and communally.