The Law of Attraction is getting quite popular these days even amongst muslims, lately, I was listening to few podcasts and I was amazed how conveniently and loosely it is being propagated amongst muslims. SubhanAllah! As believers we should analyse and see everything as per Islam.
First let’s discuss in detail about what law of attraction is by definition and then we will draw conclusions where it aligns with Islam, and where not.
Law of Attraction suggests that our thoughts be they positive or negative can bring corresponding experiences into our lives.
-Like Attracts Like: The belief that thoughts are energy, and similar energies attract each other. Positive thinking is thought to draw positive experiences, while negative thinking attracts negative outcomes.
-You Are a Magnet for What You Focus On: Focusing on specific desires, like wealth, is believed to attract related opportunities.
-Thoughts Create Reality
The idea that concentrating on goals can bring them to fruition through visualization and affirmations.
Let’s see Islamic Perspective-
– Positive Thinking and Gratitude (Shukr).
Islam encourages optimism and thankfulness. The Holy Quran states, “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]” (Holy Quran 14:7). This suggests that gratitude can lead to increased blessings.
– Dua (Supplication) and Intention (Niyyah).
Muslims believe that sincere supplications and clear intentions can influence one’s life. However, these must align with Allah’s will, acknowledging that ultimate control rests with Him.
– Effort and Reliance on Allah (Tawakkul). Islam teaches that while maintaining a positive mindset is important, but it must be accompanied by action as well. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Tie your camel and trust in Allah” (Tirmidhi). This means one should take necessary efforts and trust in Allah ta’ala.
Islamic Reservations About the Law of Attraction-
1. Belief in Human Control Over Destiny- The Law of Attraction suggests that individuals can control their destiny through thoughts alone. In contrast, Islam teaches that while humans have free will, and their efforts matter, Allah’s divine decree (Qadr) ultimately governs all outcomes.
2. Neglecting Allah’s Will-
Relying solely on visualization for success may overlook the importance of seeking Allah’s guidance and acknowledging His will. Even the prophets (peace be upon them all) faced challenges despite their strong faith, highlighting that outcomes are determined by Allah Al-Hakeem.
3. Understanding Tests and Trials-
Islam teaches that hardships can be tests from Allah. The Holy Quran mentions, “And We will surely test you with something of fear, hunger, and loss of wealth…” (Holy Quran 2:155). These trials are opportunities for growth and reliance on Allah, not merely results of one’s thoughts.
In summary, while the Law of Attraction emphasizes the power of positive thinking, Islam commands us to have positive thinking with a deep reliance on Allah Al-Qadeer’s will and hikmah!
The Law of Attraction focuses on material success like wealth, career growth, relationships, and personal achievements as the only success parameters, but in Islam, the ultimate success الفَوْزُ العَظِيمُ is success in the hereafter.
Law of Attraction can create excessive guilt because it places the full responsibility for success or failure only on the individual’s thoughts and mindset. This can be mentally exhausting, especially when things don’t go as planned.
If someone follows Law of Attraction but doesn’t get the results they want, they may feel hopeless and blame themselves.
Islam, on the other hand, teaches trust in Allah Al-Hakeem (tawakkul), that even if things don’t go as planned, Allah knows what is best for us.