Why, despite understanding religion, do I sometimes feel like being carefree?

The feeling of being carefree or heedless, even with a deep understanding of religion and its teachings, is a common human experience rooted deeply in human nature and the challenges of worldly life. The Holy Quran addresses this spiritual state in various ways and offers practical solutions to overcome it. This inclination towards heedlessness, which in Quranic terminology can be called 'ghaflah,' is not merely a weakness in understanding, but rather a sign of the human being's inner struggle with their own self and external temptations. This state, paradoxically, presents an opportunity for spiritual growth and a deepening of one's connection with the Divine. One of the primary reasons for this feeling is the presence of the 'nafs al-ammarah bi'l-su'' (the self that incites to evil) within us. This aspect of our being inclines us towards transient pleasures, comfort, and a departure from difficulties and responsibilities. The Quran, in Surah Yusuf, verse 53, states: "And I do not acquit myself. Indeed, the soul is a persistent inciter of evil, except for what my Lord has mercy upon. Indeed, my Lord is Forgiving and Merciful." This verse clearly indicates that the inclination towards ease, laxity, or heedlessness is inherent in human nature, and overcoming it requires divine mercy and assistance. This is an ongoing struggle that a believer must contend with throughout their life. Another factor is the whispers of Satan. Satan (Iblis) constantly strives to divert humanity from the straight path, leading them towards heedlessness and neglect of religious and ethical duties. He beautifies worldly matters and diminishes the importance of the Hereafter, attempting to make people forget God. The Quran refers to Satan's temptations in multiple verses, for instance, in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 168: "O mankind, eat from what is lawful and good on the earth and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy." Satan, through false promises and prolonged hopes, encourages individuals to procrastinate repentance and good deeds. The love for and allure of the worldly life (dunya) is also one of the most significant causes of heedlessness. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the fleeting nature and deceptive charm of worldly life. In Surah Al-Hadid, verse 20, it states: "Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, an adornment and boasting to one another, and competition in increase of wealth and children..." When an individual becomes engrossed in worldly pleasures and preoccupations, they may lose sight of their ultimate purpose of creation and become negligent regarding their religious responsibilities. This preoccupation with the world creates a veil between the human being and truth, causing real life priorities to be overlooked. To counter this inclination towards heedlessness and negligence, the Quran offers comprehensive and practical solutions: 1. Constant Remembrance of Allah (Dhikr): The primary remedy is persistent remembrance of God. Dhikr is not merely uttering invocations but encompasses a continuous awareness of God's presence in one's life and attentiveness to His commands and prohibitions. In Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 28, we read: "Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured." Remembering God keeps the heart alive and prevents it from falling into the trap of heedlessness. 2. Establishing Prayer (Salat): Prayer is the pillar of faith and the ascension of the believer. Prayer, performed with presence of heart, restrains one from indecency and wrongdoing and strengthens one's bond with Allah. In Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 45, it states: "...And establish prayer. Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows that which you do." The five daily prayers are opportunities to renew one's covenant and cleanse oneself from the dust of heedlessness. 3. Reflection (Tadabbur) on Divine Verses and Signs of Creation: Contemplation of the Quran and the universe deepens human insight and makes one more aware of the Creator's grandeur and the purpose of creation. This awareness fosters greater motivation to walk the path of truth and reduces heedlessness. In Surah Az-Zumar, verse 9, it states: "...Only those of understanding will remember.". 4. Keeping Good Company: Associating with righteous and pious individuals guides one towards goodness and prevents immersion in heedlessness. Our immediate environment significantly influences our spiritual inclinations. 5. Remembering Death and the Hereafter: Recalling the reality of death and the life thereafter is the most powerful factor in freeing oneself from heedlessness and taking life and its responsibilities seriously. The Quran repeatedly invites humanity to remember the Day of Accountability and the recompense for deeds. 6. Repentance (Tawbah) and Seeking Forgiveness (Istighfar): Whenever one succumbs to heedlessness or a lapse, the door of repentance is always open. Returning to God and seeking forgiveness purifies the heart and instills a fresh spirit for progress. Ultimately, this inclination towards heedlessness is an ongoing struggle and a sign of a dynamic spiritual journey rather than a fixed flaw. By seeking Allah's help, relying on the teachings of the Quran and Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and striving continuously for self-purification, one can overcome this state and experience a life of purpose, tranquility, and divine pleasure. This process is achievable step by step, with patience and perseverance.