Being young and trying to live according to Islam in today’s society is no easy task. Between peer pressure, family resistance, and the constant pull of popular culture, many Muslim youth — especially young women — find themselves caught between knowing the truth and having the courage to live it. Sheikh Ibrahim Zidan addresses these challenges head-on with practical wisdom rooted in the Quran and Sunnah.
Two Powers Every Muslim Youth Needs
To face life’s challenges the right way, every Muslim needs two forms of strength. The first is the power of knowledge — knowing what Allah requires of you through studying the Quran and Sunnah. The second is the power of courage — having the strength to actually apply what you know, even when family, friends, or society push back against it.
“The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: there is no obedience to any of the creation of Allah when it goes against the orders of Allah. The absolute obedience belongs to Allah alone — so there is no compromising on the five daily prayers or the hijab.”
Dealing With Parents Who Resist Your Practice
- Know the principle: Obedience to parents is obligatory in Islam, but not when it contradicts Allah’s commands
- Build your iman (faith): The stronger your faith, the greater your patience during trials. Recite Quran, make dua, and stay in good company
- Expect the test: Allah says in the Quran: “Do people think they will be left alone to say ‘we believe’ and they will not be tested?” Trials are part of the package
- Choose righteous companions: The wolf eats the lonely sheep. Surround yourself with people who strengthen your faith, not weaken it
- Stay busy with good deeds: Volunteer, teach, serve the community — idleness opens the door to spiritual decline
The Perfume Seller or the Blacksmith?
“The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: the example of a good companion is like a perfume seller — either you get perfume or at least a good smell. A bad companion is like a blacksmith — either you get burned or you leave with a bad smell.”
The bottom line is simple but profound: this life is a test, and the question is whether you love your Creator more than you love the approval of people around you. When the struggle feels overwhelming, turn to Allah alone and ask Him sincerely to save you from difficulty. He is the Most Merciful, and He never turns away a sincere heart. Do not sacrifice something permanent — Paradise — for something temporary. Your Creator wants you in Jannah, and He has given you everything you need to get there.
