7 Subtle Signs You’re Displeasing Allah and How to Correct Them
As Muslims, our primary aim is to earn the pleasure of Allah (SWT). Every action, every decision, and every moment of our lives should be dedicated to seeking His satisfaction. However, sometimes, in the hustle and bustle of life, we may unknowingly engage in actions that displease Him, leading us away from the path of righteousness. Below are seven signs that may indicate we are displeasing Allah without realizing it. May this serve as a reminder to reflect upon our actions and correct them before it’s too late.
1. Being Ungrateful for Allah’s Blessings
One of the most severe ways to displease Allah is through ingratitude. Allah has blessed us with countless favors—our health, our families, our sustenance, our faith, and much more. However, many times, we take these blessings for granted. Instead of showing gratitude through worship, thankfulness, and using these blessings in ways that please Allah, we complain, neglect our duties, or seek more worldly gains without appreciating what we already have.
In the Qur’an, Allah tells us:
“If you are grateful, I will certainly give you more. But if you are ungrateful, surely My punishment is severe.” (Qur’an 14:7)
The act of showing gratitude is not limited to words but is demonstrated through our actions. When we acknowledge Allah’s blessings in our hearts, speak about them with thankfulness, and use them in ways that benefit us and others, we reflect our gratitude. Neglecting to show gratitude is akin to ignoring the source of all blessings, which displeases Allah.
2. Lying
Lying, whether in small or big matters, is a sin that severely displeases Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was clear in his teachings about the importance of truthfulness. Lying distorts reality and harms relationships, leading to mistrust, confusion, and injustice. It is an act that breaks the integrity of a believer’s character, and Allah is displeased by it.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise. A man keeps on telling the truth until he is recorded with Allah as a truthful person.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
When we lie, we break the trust that others place in us, and we distance ourselves from the truth which Allah loves. True believers are those who strive to always speak the truth, even when it is difficult or uncomfortable. Lying is a form of dishonesty that can have far-reaching consequences on our lives and relationships.
3. Backbiting and Slander
One of the most harmful actions in society, and one that Allah explicitly forbids, is backbiting—speaking ill of someone behind their back. It is a form of gossip that ruins relationships, damages reputations, and spreads negativity. Allah warns against this in the Qur’an, describing backbiting as equivalent to eating the flesh of your dead brother.
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“And do not backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You would hate it.” (Qur’an 49:12)
The severity of backbiting lies in the fact that it degrades a person’s honor and character without giving them a chance to defend themselves. As believers, we are encouraged to speak kindly about others, to protect their dignity, and to avoid anything that may harm their reputation. If we are unknowingly backbiting, we must repent, seek forgiveness from Allah, and strive to avoid this harmful practice.
4. Arrogance and Pride
Arrogance is a dangerous trait that distances us from Allah’s mercy. It is the feeling of superiority over others, the belief that one is better than those around them, and the refusal to humble oneself. Allah detests pride, as it reflects a lack of understanding of our true position in the world. We are all equal in the eyes of Allah, and any form of arrogance goes against this fundamental truth.
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“Indeed, Allah does not like anyone who is self-deluding and boastful!” (Qur’an 4:36)
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) warned against the dangers of arrogance, stating that even a small amount of pride can prevent a person from entering Paradise. Arrogance manifests in many forms, whether it’s looking down on others, refusing to accept advice, or belittling others because of their race, social status, or background. Humility is the antidote to arrogance, and true believers must always strive to be humble in their actions, speech, and behavior.
5. Being Extravagant and Wasteful
Wastefulness is a form of ingratitude that Allah specifically forbids. In today’s world, it is easy to become wasteful, whether it’s discarding food, overusing resources like water and electricity, or spending money excessively. Allah commands us to be moderate in our spending and to avoid extravagance in all forms.
In the Qur’an, Allah reminds us:
“And do not waste [resources], for indeed, He does not like those who waste.” (Qur’an 7:31)
Being wasteful goes against the principle of moderation in Islam. Allah has blessed us with the means to live, and it is our responsibility to use them wisely. Wastefulness not only harms the environment but also disrespects the blessings Allah has given us. As Muslims, we are encouraged to show moderation in all areas of life, using what Allah has provided for the benefit of ourselves and others, without indulging in excess.
6. Delaying Salah
Salah (prayer) is the most important act of worship in Islam, and it is our direct connection with Allah. It is not just a ritual, but a means of remembering Allah, seeking His forgiveness, and maintaining spiritual discipline. Delaying or neglecting Salah without a valid excuse is a form of negligence that displeases Allah.
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“And those who pray, who are constant in their prayer, and those who guard their prayers, these are in gardens, honored.” (Qur’an 70:34-35)
Delaying prayers beyond their prescribed time or neglecting them altogether is a sign of spiritual weakness and a lack of commitment to our relationship with Allah. As believers, we are reminded to establish prayer at the prescribed times, not only to fulfill our obligation but also to stay close to Allah, maintaining regular communication through our Salah.
Conclusion: The Path to Allah’s Pleasure
As Muslims, our ultimate goal is to seek the pleasure of Allah. By recognizing these signs and reflecting on our behavior, we can take steps to correct our actions and align ourselves with the teachings of Islam. Gratefulness, truthfulness, humility, mindfulness of resources, and punctuality in prayer are just a few ways we can strive to earn Allah’s mercy.
Let us remember that while these actions may seem small or insignificant, they have great consequences on our faith and our relationship with Allah. If we are unknowingly displeasing Allah, we must turn to Him in repentance, seek His forgiveness, and make a conscious effort to improve our character. May Allah guide us all to be better Muslims and to live in a way that pleases Him. Ameen.
#Reminder #IslamicGuidance #PathToJannah #Repentance