Finding Strength Through Emotions: Reflections on the Dua of Musa (AS)
Have you ever faced a challenge that felt overwhelming—a conversation you dreaded, a moment filled with fear, or a situation that left you unsure of what to do next? Maybe you’ve even felt frustrated with yourself for feeling anxious or nervous, wondering why you can’t just "be stronger." I’ve been there too.
While reading verses of the Quran, I’ve found so much to reflect on in the stories of the prophets—lessons that resonate with the challenges I face and those I see others navigating in my work as a therapist. One story in particular stands out: a powerful moment in the life of Musa (AS), beautifully captured in two ayahs of Surah Ash-Shu’ara
In Surah Ash-Shu’ara, Allah (SWT) commands Prophet Musa (AS) to give dawa’a and invite the Pharoah to the truth—a task of immense difficulty and weight. Imagine being told to stand before one of the most powerful and oppressive rulers in history, knowing the risks involved. In that moment, Musa (AS) didn’t suppress his emotions or deny his experience—he turned to Allah (SWT) with complete honesty.
The fear and apprehension felt by Musa (AS) in response to this task is narrated in Ayahs 12-13. Musa (AS) says, “My Lord, I fear that they will reject me. And so, my heart will be broken, and my tongue will be tied. So send Haroon along with me.”
“.قَالَ رَبِّ إِنِّىٓ أَخَافُ أَن يُكَذِّبُونِ
.وَيَضِيقُ صَدْرِى وَلَا يَنطَلِقُ لِسَانِى فَأَرْسِلْ إِلَىٰ هَـٰرُونَ ”
I find this moment in the Quran to be so powerful, humanizing, and full of valuable lessons. These ayahs stand out to me because they validate something profound—even a prophet—someone with such strong, unshakable faith—felt and expressed fear and nervousness. It didn’t make him weak or indicate a deficiency in Iman (faith). Instead, it reminds us that experiencing acknowledging our emotions is natural and that seeking support isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s part of what makes us human.
Some reflections:
1. Emotions Are Normal
Musa (AS) felt fear and didn’t try to avoid or dismiss it. Being aware of your emotions is the first step to accepting them. Suppressing emotions can lead to irritability, self-doubt, or stress. Recognizing our feelings without judgment can help us better manage life’s challenges and our responses to them.
In my work as a therapist, I see that many Muslims and children of immigrants judge themselves for feeling certain emotions. This self-judgement often leads to a lack of self-compassion, and makes it harder for people to find peace and clarity.
This type of mindset doesn’t come out of nowhere. Many of the religious and cultural narratives we are taught label certain emotions as “bad”. People are told that showing or even experiencing big emotions makes them sensitive or weak, or that struggling with emotions indicates some spiritual problem or lack of faith. This type of invalidation or spiritual bypassing can be harmful and can become internalized as the core beliefs one has about themselves.
Examples like Musa (AS)’s story teach us otherwise. They remind us that fear, apprehension, and the need for help are not flaws but a part of what it means to be human. The fact that Allah (SWT) took this story and put the dua and emotions of Musa (AS) in the Quran for us to have access to for centuries to come tells me there’s something here we need to reflect on.
2. Naming Our Feelings
Acknowledging emotions—like fear or insecurity— help us address obstacles without shame. Musa (AS) shows us that fear doesn’t define him or his worth—it’s a valid feeling that deserves support. I’ve come across many individuals who believe that acknowledging a difficult feeling will encourage weakness or cause them to “dwell”. But in reality, naming your feelings helps you process and manage them more effectively.
When you name your feelings, you’re better equipped to deal with them, get the support you need, and give yourself the best possible outcome. By acknowledging what you’re experiencing, you can deal with the emotion at hand rather than spending time and energy pretending the emotion is not there, judging yourself for feeling it, and then experiencing shame. Feeling your feelings can be freeing.
3. Seeking Support Is a Strength, Not a Weakness
Musa (AS) asked for help, understanding his need for support, and he was specific about who would best help him in his mission. Many of us—especially women and children of immigrants—feel pressured to “do it alone,” but needing help is normal. We were never meant to do it all.
Asking for support when needed, through dua, trusted relationships, and professional help brings guidance and compassion into our lives. Sometimes asking for help takes more courage than not asking.
Putting These Lessons Into Practice
The wisdoms found in Prophet Musa (AS)’s method of dealing with the great task of facing the Pharaoh can be applied to our own lives and how we respond to difficulties. Here are some actionable steps to do exactly that:
Build Emotional Awareness
Practicing self-reflection, mindfulness, and therapy are excellent ways to increase emotional awareness. Taking out time to actively engage in these can help you explore and understand emotions you might otherwise avoid.
Accept Emotions Without Judgment
Instead of dismissing your feelings with internal dialogue like “I shouldn’t feel this way”, try acknowledging that feelings are temporary and natural. Imagine emotions as a tunnel—the only way out is through.
Emotions ebb and flow. Remember that Allah (SWT) created humans with the ability to feel emotions–they are not a sign of weakness or fragility, but rather a sign of our humanness.
Identify What You Need
Once you are able to recognize the different emotions you are experiencing, you can start to figure out what you need when you’re feeling them.
If you’re sad uplifting activities like spending time with a loved one, reading Quran, or taking a walk may help.
If you’re overwhelmed, try a to-do list or delegating tasks.
If you’re anxious, you might spend a few minutes doing something that helps you feel regulated like deep breathing and dhikr.
There is no one size fits all approach here, and self-awareness and reflection will help you understand how best to support yourself when a difficult emotion comes up.
Ask for Support
Utilize dua, talking to Allah openly about your feelings and needs. Additionally, reach out to friends, family, or mentors. Remember, Allah equips us for every challenge we face. You have what it takes to deal with whatever comes your way, and that can include your ability to ask for help.
Good, culturally sensitive therapy is an excellent way to increase emotional awareness, build self-compassion, and learn better coping strategies.
If you’re interested in taking that step for yourself and want to work with a Muslim therapist in Maryland, schedule a consult call with me today!