On today’s topic on the series, let’s dive into this thing we call Hidden Faith Syndrome. You know, that trendy belief among some Muslims that goes, “Faith is in my heart; it doesn’t have to show in how I dress or act.” Yeah, those ones. They stroll around, half-dressed, nails done, lashes flying, and barely offering their prayers, but the moment you gently remind them, they hit you with the classic: *“Only God can judge me.”* Oh, okay then. That’s it, case closed. You’re the extremist now.
I’ve seen it all; sisters on TikTok or Instagram in crop tops, flaunting their hair for the world to see, joining in on Qur’an challenges. And in the comments, people say, “See? You can still look like this and be a good Muslim. Stop judging. Faith is in the heart.” Oh really? Since when did *intentions* become a cover-up for negligence? Islam isn’t about memorizing a few surahs and calling it a day, nor does it end with wearing the Ihram at Hajj. It’s a lifestyle that shows in every aspect, inside and out.
But here’s the kicker: *“Only God can judge me, only God can judge me.”* Ah, yes. And when He *does* judge you, down to every single detail, every overlooked prayer, every ignored command, without pardon, just as you requested by repeating that line, I hope you’re smiling. Hope you’re flipping that bone-straight hair with joy on the Day He calls you to account. You think this is a game? Go read what happened to the children of Israel. Better yet, check out what’s in store for Abu Lahab. And here you are, acting like you have immunity. We’ll keep quiet now, after all, only God can judge you. When He does, we just hope you’re truly, deeply… *happy* with it.
Let’s be real. As Muslims, our faith isn’t meant to stay hidden like some underground treasure. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2): *”This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.”* Consciousness of Allah (*taqwa*) reflects in how we live. It’s not a matter of personal opinion or fashion choices.
Look, even in human interactions, we expect gratitude and effort. Imagine gifting someone something meaningful, and they barely say thank you. Wouldn’t you feel disappointed? Now, how do we think Allah feels when we treat His commands casually, acting like He should be satisfied with what little we do?
Islam is about striving, folks. None of us are perfect, but the goal is to keep trying, not to sit comfortably in disobedience with the excuse that “God knows what’s in my heart.” Yes, He does. And that’s exactly why we should be worried! Because if what’s in the heart doesn’t translate into actions, it’s like saying, “I love someone, but I’ll never show it.” Love isn’t love if it doesn’t move you to act and neither is faith.
So, let’s ditch the “Only God can judge me” motto, while someone who makes that same statement is crying to Allah to return him/her to earth so he/she would act in the right way. Let’s live in a way that makes us worthy of His mercy, not just His judgment. Because trust me, when Allah judges… well, you really, really don’t want to find out the hard way, no one will come back and tell you how the grave is sha.
See ya tomorrow Insha Allah 🤩.
Nusaybah Shuaib-Osunleke
