Why Do Some People's Faith Grow Faster?

Understanding the growth of faith in humans is a profound spiritual journey that the Holy Quran addresses in various dimensions. The Quran does not directly speak of 'faster growth' for specific individuals but rather emphasizes factors and conditions that, when pursued with greater diligence and sincerity, undoubtedly lead to a deeper, more stable, and, in a sense, 'faster' rooting of faith in one's heart and actions. This apparent speed is, in fact, the result of the synergy between internal factors (such as sincerity and knowledge) and external factors (such as righteous deeds and environment). In reality, faith is not merely a belief of the heart but a spiritual and practical state that blossoms over time through life experiences and connection with the Creator. One of the most crucial factors in the growth of faith is deep knowledge and contemplation of divine verses. The Quran repeatedly invites humans to reflect on the creation of the heavens and the earth, to ponder the signs of God in nature, and within one's own being. This contemplation opens the heart's doors to the truths of existence and helps one grasp the Creator's grandeur and power with their entire being. The more one reflects on these signs, perceiving them not just with physical eyes but with the insight of the heart, the stronger the roots of their faith become. Verse 190 of Surah Al-Imran states: 'Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding.' This type of reflection transforms faith from a superficial belief into a deep, unshakable conviction. Another factor is constant remembrance of Allah (Dhikrullah). The Holy Quran emphasizes that inner peace and spiritual stability are attained only through the remembrance of God. Verse 28 of Surah Ar-Ra'd states: 'Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.' Remembrance includes reciting the Quran, glorifying Allah (tasbeeh), declaring His oneness (tahlil), seeking forgiveness (istighfar), and any act that brings God to mind. Those whose lives are imbued with the remembrance of God experience less doubt and anxiety, and their hearts tread the path of faith more firmly. This consistency in remembrance is a spiritual purification that removes obstacles from the path of faith's growth, allowing divine light to shine into the heart more quickly. Worship and righteous deeds (Ibadah and Amal Salih) also play a vital role in the growth of faith. Faith does not merely reside in the heart; it must manifest in action. Prayer (Salat), fasting, charity (Zakat), pilgrimage (Hajj), and other acts of worship are not just religious obligations but also practices for strengthening one's connection with God and nurturing a spirit of submission and servitude. The more diligently one performs righteous deeds and does so with sincerity, the stronger their faith becomes. Verse 69 of Surah Al-Ankabut states: 'And those who strive for Us – We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.' This striving (jihad), whether in battling external enemies or the inner self, leads to the opening of divine paths of guidance, which itself is an accelerating factor in the growth of faith. The active manifestation of faith transforms it from a mental idea into a tangible reality in one's life. Patience (Sabr) and steadfastness in the face of difficulties and trials are also crucial factors. Human life is constantly accompanied by challenges and hardships, and how one responds to these issues is a test of their faith. Those who emerge victorious from trials with patience and reliance on God find their faith strengthened. Verse 153 of Surah Al-Baqarah states: 'O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.' This verse indicates that patience and prayer are tools for receiving divine help and strengthening the foundation of faith when facing adversities. Finally, one cannot overlook divine grace and favor (Tawfiq). Faith is a gift from God, and a heart that is more prepared to receive this gift sees the light of faith within itself sooner. Verse 7 of Surah Al-Hujurat states: 'But Allah has endeared to you faith and has made it pleasing in your hearts and has made hateful to you disbelief, defiance and disobedience. Those are the [rightly] guided.' This verse shows that Allah inclines some hearts towards faith and beautifies it in their sight. This divine favor is itself a result of one's sincerity, purity of intention, and inner readiness. Those who avoid selfishness, arrogance, and obstinacy, and who seek truth with a pure heart, receive more of God's grace, making the path of faith's growth smoother and faster for them. Therefore, a 'faster' growth of faith is not indicative of an inherent superiority but rather a result of persistent efforts, sincerity in intention, depth of knowledge, consistency in worship, patience in difficulties, and most importantly, the heart's readiness to receive divine favor and grace. Whoever travels this path with greater diligence will undoubtedly observe the results in the strengthening and deepening of their faith, sooner and more clearly.