Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research
ConvictionDoubtGender and SexualityIslam and PoliticsAllahFaithFamily & CommunityMarriageSeriesVideo

Tips for When You’re Struggling With Your Faith | Real Talk ft. Dr. Tesneem Alkiek

January 21, 2026
Dr. Tesneem Alkiek

It’s normal to struggle. The Prophet ﷺ said, “Faith wears out in your hearts just like clothes wear out.” So the question isn’t whether you’ll experience ups and downs—we all will. The real question is: What will you do to renew your faith? In this episode, Dr. Tesneem Alkiek shares how she navigated her own periods of spiritual burnout, and offers practical reflections on how to engage with the parts of Islam that might feel harder for you than for others.

It’s normal to struggle. The Prophet ﷺ said, “Faith wears out in your hearts just like clothes wear out.” So the question isn’t whether you’ll experience ups and downs—we all will. The real question is: What will you do to renew your faith? In this episode, Dr. Tesneem Alkiek shares how she navigated her own periods of spiritual burnout, and offers practical reflections on how to engage with the parts of Islam that might feel harder for you than for others.

Dr. Tesneem Alkiek

Dr. Tesneem Alkiek

Fellow, Director of Expanded Learning | Tesneem obtained her undergraduate degree in Early Christianity and Islamic Studies from the University of Michigan. She went on to complete her Ph.D. in Islamic Studies at Georgetown University with a focus on Islamic law. Tesneem currently serves as the Director of Expanded Learning where she works with her team to create curricula and other resources for communities to engage with Yaqeen’s research. She is also a Lecturer in the Department of Philosophy and Religion at Rutgers University-Camden.

View all posts