Why does the Quran emphasize that 'the remembrance of God brings tranquility to hearts'?

The Holy Quran, through numerous profound and meaningful verses, addresses the theme of inner peace and the pivotal role of remembering God in achieving it. The famous verse from Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 28, explicitly states: "Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured." This verse not only articulates a divine truth but also offers a therapeutic prescription for the anxious and often worried modern human soul. To deeply understand this emphasis, it is essential to delve into the various dimensions of human connection with the Creator and its effects on one's being. One of the most significant reasons why the remembrance of God brings tranquility is the sense of connection and refuge it fosters within the believer's heart. Humans are inherently needy and finite beings, often feeling weak and insignificant in the face of the world's grandeur and life's complexities. Confronting daily problems, challenges, and sufferings can easily plunge a person into a whirlpool of anxiety and despair. However, when one remembers God, they are reminded of an infinite power and unparalleled wisdom—the Creator and Sustainer of all things. This remembrance assures individuals that they are not alone and have a firm, eternal support. The feeling that "He sees, He knows, and He is capable" lifts the heavy burden of worries from one's shoulders, replacing it with a sense of security and hope. This feeling of taking refuge in an infinite power enables a person to face difficulties with greater peace, knowing that the ultimate outcome of all matters is in His hands, and good and wisdom are inherent in His decrees. Another reason is the shift in perspective and outlook on life. Remembering God steers the mind away from materialistic and worldly attachments, which are often sources of anxiety and discomfort, towards transcendent and spiritual realities. When individuals become engrossed in daily affairs and worldly competitions, they may become trapped in an endless cycle of greed, envy, and resentment. These emotions are, in themselves, the primary roots of inner turmoil. However, the remembrance of God reminds humanity of its primary purpose of creation: servitude to and drawing closer to God. By focusing on this sublime goal, individuals can free themselves from the shackles of material attachments and achieve a profound peace that is not affected by external fluctuations. This peace is an inner tranquility originating from understanding one's true place in existence and connecting with the Creator of the universe. One realizes that their true worth lies not in what they accumulate, but in the connection they establish with their Creator. Furthermore, remembering God signifies acceptance of divine decree and submission to His will. In a world where many events are beyond our control, striving to control everything only leads to anxiety and stress. Remembering God and trusting in Him teaches a person that certain matters must be entrusted to divine providence and will. This submission does not mean giving up effort but rather making all possible efforts and then entrusting the outcome to God with peace of mind. This spiritual state frees one from unnecessary worries about the future and allows them to live in the present and appreciate existing blessings. This perspective ensures that one does not despair in the face of failures nor become arrogant in the face of successes, as all are perceived as blessings from God. From a psychological perspective, dhikr (remembrance of God) can act as a continuous mental exercise that keeps the mind away from negative and distracting thoughts. Similar to meditation in other traditions, dhikr of Allah (including prayer, Quranic recitation, glorifications, and contemplation of divine verses) helps focus the mind and reduces brain activities associated with anxiety. The repetition of sacred words and divine concepts harmonizes brain waves towards tranquility and promotes the release of hormones associated with well-being. Moreover, remembering God can assist individuals in cultivating moral virtues such as patience, gratitude, forgiveness, and kindness. These virtues are themselves primary factors for inner happiness and peace. A patient person endures difficulties, and a grateful person enjoys divine blessings. These qualities directly contribute to reducing stress and increasing life satisfaction. Ultimately, this emphasis in the Quran points to a fundamental truth about the human existential structure: the human heart is the center of its faith and spiritual perception. And nothing but what the Creator has ordained for it can quench its thirst and bring it peace. The remembrance of God is like refreshing water that quenches the soul's thirst. In today's tumultuous world, where people are more exposed to stress and depression than ever before, this Quranic teaching serves as a guiding light for finding lasting peace. This tranquility is a divine gift achieved only by sincerely turning to His remembrance and invocation. Thus, the more one remembers God and sees their life connected to Him at every moment, the more peace and assurance they will feel in their heart, freeing themselves from internal and external turmoil. This continuous remembrance prevents arrogance and heedlessness not only in moments of hardship but also at the peak of successes, keeping a person on the right, divine path.