The Qur’an is the unaltered word of Allah, revealed as a complete guide for human life- without error and capable of transforming hearts and minds. Allah states:
“Indeed, this Qur’an guides to that which is most just and right and gives good tidings to the believers who do righteous deeds that they will have a great reward.” (17:9)
In contrast, psychology is a man made secular discipline that proposes theories based on human observation, speculation, and subjective analysis. While certain aspects of psychology may provide insights into human behaviour, they are limited by human perception and societal norms, which continuously change. The Qur’an, however, remains absolute, timeless, and free from error, offering a comprehensive understanding of human nature.
The Root of Suffering: Humanity is Soul Sick
Modern psychology often labels people with anxiety, depression, and others as ‘mental disorders’, but in many cases, these are symptoms of a spiritual crisis rather than a biological or psychological malfunction. The reality is that humanity is soul sick, not ‘mentally ill’.
People today suffer from an emptiness that cannot be filled by therapy alone, self-help books, or drug interventions. This emptiness is the result of being disconnected from the purpose of life: worshipping Allah and seeking closeness to Him. Allah warns:
“And whoever turns away from My remembrance – indeed, he will have a ‘depressed’ life, and We will gather him on the Day of Resurrection blind.” (20:124)
This verse highlights that spiritual neglect leads to inner turmoil- a feeling of despair, confusion, and purposelessness. No amount of therapy or drugs can fill the void left by the absence of faith, submission, and reliance on Allah.
Psychology: A System Built on Theories
Psychology presents multiple theories of personality, suggesting that human behaviour is shaped by genetics, environment, childhood experiences, or free will. While these perspectives attempt to explain human actions, they fail to acknowledge the deeper reality of the soul and ruh which is at the core of a person’s being.
Allah tells us:
“And they ask you concerning the ruh. Say: The ruh is of the affair of my Lord, and mankind has not been given knowledge except a little.” (17:85)
This highlights a fundamental limitation of human knowledge- especially in understanding the deeper aspects of mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Psychology relies on hypothetical constructs that are constantly evolving, whereas the Qur’an provides absolute truths about the human condition.
Psychological Depression vs. Spiritual Depression
Psychologists define depression as a mood disorder caused by chemical imbalances, trauma, or environmental stressors. While some of these factors may contribute to emotional distress, they fail to explain the deeper spiritual emptiness that many people experience.
Allah describes the Qur’an as a healing for the heart:
“O mankind, there has come to you instruction from your Lord and healing for what is in the chests, and guidance and mercy for the believers.” (10:57)
This verse reminds us that the true solution to emotional and mental distress lies in reconnecting with Allah through:
1. Sincere prayer and dua– Speaking to Allah about struggles
2. Regular recitation of the Qur’an– The ultimate source of healing
3. Seeking forgiveness (Istighfar) – Purifying the soul from sins
4. Being in good company– Surrounding oneself with righteous believers.
5. Implementing the commands of God and living a Godly life.
Unlike psychology, which offers temporary coping mechanisms, the Qur’an provides eternal healing for the soul.
What is “Normal”? Psychology vs. the Qur’an
In psychology, the definition of normal is based on social norms, which change over time. For example, behaviours that were once considered deviant are now widely accepted due to shifting cultural perspectives.
However, in Islam, the standard of right and wrong does not change with societal trends. Allah has set absolute moral guidelines that are unaltered by time, place, or human opinions.
“And if you obey most of those upon the earth, they will mislead you far away from Allah’s path. They follow nothing but speculation, and they do nothing but lie.” (6:116)
This is a warning against blindly following societal norms, as they are often based on human desires and conjecture rather than divine truth. Unlike psychology, which constantly revises its understanding of “normal,” the Qur’an provides a fixed moral and ethical framework.
Allah’s Absolute Standard vs. Human Speculation
Unlike psychology, which relies on ever changing human theories, Islam provides absolute solutions to human suffering through the Qur’an and Sunnah. Allah’s laws are designed to guide mankind towards peace, justice, and mental stability.
True healing does not come from merely treating symptoms with therapy or drug intervention, but through understanding one’s purpose, seeking forgiveness, engaging in worship, and strengthening one’s faith.
How Do We Know Right from Wrong?
Psychology bases morality on social and cultural trends, whereas Islam establishes an unchanging divine standard for what is right and wrong. Allah says:
“This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favour upon you and have approved for you Islam as your religion.” (5:3)
This means that Islam provides a complete and sufficient way of life, addressing all human struggles- mental, emotional, and spiritual.
While psychology may provide temporary coping mechanisms, it cannot offer the ultimate purpose, meaning, or eternal solutions that the Qur’an provides. Only through turning to Allah, His guidance, and sincere worship can true healing and fulfillment be attained.
Humanity today is not just ‘mentally ill’- it is soul sick. The true path to healing is not found purely in man made theories but in returning to Allah, His book, and His guidance.
“And We send down in the Qur’an that which is a healing and a mercy for the believers. (17:82)
The only real cure for spiritual depression and emotional suffering is faith, remembrance of Allah, and submission to His divine will.
