Feb 22 β€’ 16:05 UTC πŸ‡ΆπŸ‡¦ Qatar Al Jazeera

How does repentance heal us from depression?

The article discusses how the act of repentance can be a pathway to mental peace and recovery from depression.

The article, featured on Al Jazeera, explores the therapeutic role of repentance in overcoming depression, as discussed by various psychological experts, including Dr. Khalil Fadel. It emphasizes that the persistent feelings of guilt are intrinsically linked to depressive states, suggesting that true repentance is not merely a religious act but also a crucial step towards emotional recovery. Shannon Alder's insights on the inadequacy of external success to alleviate inner shame reinforce the idea that genuine repentance, which involves rectifying wrongs and forgiving oneself and others, is essential for emotional healing.

The narrative further illustrates that repentance is not a one-time event but a continuous journey, as highlighted by the Islamic scholar Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyya. He describes repentance as the starting point, the middle, and the end of gaining closeness to God, indicating its ongoing nature until one's death. The article also reflects on the compassionate nature of God, suggesting that the door to mercy remains open, aligning with the saying, "Allah does not tire until you tire," reminding readers that true remorse and earnest returns to faith are always accepted.

Lastly, the piece raises the question of what constitutes sincere repentance and provides insights into its prerequisites, highlighting that it involves a transformational process leading to the death of the old self and the birth of a new individual. By referencing C.S. Lewis's thoughts on repentance as a profound personal metamorphosis, the article underscores that true repentance can lead to significant changes in one's life, aiding in the recovery from mental health challenges like depression.

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