Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research

Why Is There So Much Suffering in The World? | Why Me?

When your sins pile up, it can be easy to feel despair. But Allah is always waiting to welcome you back to Himself. No matter what you’ve done, no matter how long it has been, don’t let anyone tell you that you cannot find healing in repentance. Remember the verse in Surah az-Zumar: “O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins.”

Why do innocent people suffer? Why is there so much tragedy happening around the world? When these questions fill your mind, be grateful. It means that you have a heart that is not numb to the struggles of your fellow humans. There are many answers to these questions from an Islamic perspective, and each takes time to explore. But as an individual, the most important thing you can do is ask yourself the corresponding questions: When innocent people suffer, what can you do? What is your role? How can the suffering of others snap you out of complacency and into action to alleviate the pain of your brothers and sisters in humanity?

Dr. Omar Suleiman

Dr. Omar Suleiman

President | Imam Dr. Omar Suleiman is the Founder and President of the Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research, and an Adjunct Professor of Islamic Studies in the Graduate Liberal Studies Program at Southern Methodist University.