When we seem to tremble, with an effect of being unbalanced within – with sometimes, an outward manifestation of anxiety – we either fall within the sincere humility end, or the display of our nature of meekness. When fear indicates our submissiveness or humility to a situation or a person, it can either be us displaying how we are partially or totally accepting to give in, to that thing or person, in order to be fulfilled with the good envisaged from doing so, or pointing to just how meek-minded or shallowly reasonable we are.
Either of the two triggers of fear are valid as the human inclinations to fear, but which of them is in a better fold, and which is in a disadvantaged position? Every action is ideally to be judged by the intentions that precede them, and all efforts are to be rewarded by the enormity of their effect. Imagine someone who took the initiative to actively play his assigned role in a team of professionals, because he knows how important it is, for the benefit of the team. Also imagine someone who just goes into any direction he has been pushed to, all because he lacks vision, and fears the consequence of not yielding to the order, even if such order will affect him negatively. We can see two situation of fear, but triggered differently. While the former is sincerely for progress, the order is borne out of innate nature.
What pays, in virtually all situation, is to have a valid fear that will not clip one’s wing due to the weakeness of facing it, rather it should be a motivation to soar and thrive at events that are building blocks for success. It is valid to say a positive fear – that which is borne out of submission, to achieve progress – is determination or motivation. The fear borne out of the mind’s weakness is valid to be called mental reclination, which one may not have power over, for some period of time, but can definitely be managed by self development.
The mind makes up a substantial part of our being and it is the honesty it harbours, in the worship of Allah, that Allah looks into, and this is why He says “And those who fear Allah and keep their duty to Him will be above them on the Day of Resurrection. And Allah gives provision to whom He wills without limit.” Surah Al-Ankabut (29:69). It is incumbent upon us, to direct our matters and fear to a sincerity of purpose, so as to live a fulfilling life in this world and the hereafter.
May Allah grant us positive steadfastness, Aameen.
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