HOW TO DEVELOP SELF-DISCIPLINE (MUJAHADAH) WITH GUIDANCE FROM THE QURAN AND HADITH

Introduction: Why Self-Discipline (Mujahadah) Matters

Have you ever felt like you want to do better—pray more consistently, be more productive, break bad habits—but something always holds you back? You start with enthusiasm, but distractions, laziness, or inner resistance pull you away.

This struggle is real. It’s something every human being faces. And Islam acknowledges it—which is why the concept of Mujahadah (striving and self-discipline) is deeply rooted in the Quran and Sunnah.

In a previous post, I explored self-discipline as a key to success in all areas of life—whether in work, health, or personal growth. But from an Islamic perspective, self-discipline isn’t just about productivity or self-improvement—it’s a form of worship known as Mujahadah.

Mujahadah isn’t just about physical struggles; it’s about the daily battles we fight within ourselves—against procrastination, negative thoughts, temptations, and laziness. Allah tells us:

“وَالَّذِينَ جَاهَدُوا فِينَا لَنَهْدِيَنَّهُمْ سُبُلَنَا ۚ وَإِنَّ اللَّهَ لَمَعَ الْمُحْسِنِينَ”

“And those who strive for Our sake—We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.”

(Surah Al-ʿAnkabūt 29:69)

This verse is a promise. Allah doesn’t expect perfection—He asks for effort. If you try, if you struggle, if you take even a small step toward Him, He will guide you.

How does this apply to us today?

• If you’re struggling to wake up for Fajr, but you set your alarm and push yourself—this is Mujahadah.

• If you feel lazy to read the Quran, but you open it and read even one verse—this is Mujahadah.

• If you hold back from speaking in anger, choosing patience instead—this is Mujahadah.

Every time you fight against your lower desires for the sake of Allah, you are engaging in a form of Jihad al-Nafs (self-discipline, struggle against the self). And the reward? Allah will guide you and be with you.

1. Self-Discipline (Mujahadah) is the Path to Success

Allah teaches us that success—both in this life and the hereafter—requires effort and self-discipline. The people who achieve greatness aren’t necessarily the most talented or the smartest. They are the ones who strive, persist, and don’t give up.

“أَمْ حَسِبْتُمْ أَن تَدْخُلُوا الْجَنَّةَ وَلَمَّا يَعْلَمِ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ جَاهَدُوا مِنكُمْ وَيَعْلَمَ الصَّابِرِينَ”

“Do you think that you will enter Paradise while Allah has not yet made evident those of you who strive and struggle in His cause and those who are patient?”

(Surah Āli ʿImrān 3:142)

Paradise isn’t given to us without effort. It’s for those who push through their struggles, and who have the discipline to stay committed to what’s right—even when it’s hard.

2. The Role of Self-Discipline (Mujahadah) in Both Worldly and Spiritual Success

Self-discipline isn’t just a concept from the past—it’s something we need in every aspect of our modern lives. Whether it’s resisting distractions, staying committed to spiritual duties, or pushing ourselves to grow, Mujāhadah plays a crucial role in shaping our success.

• A student who disciplines themselves to study consistently will excel in their education.

• An entrepreneur who stays focused and works diligently will build something meaningful.

• An athlete who trains despite exhaustion will reach new levels of strength.

• A professional who manages time wisely and avoids procrastination will achieve greater results.

Now think about our spiritual life—the same principle applies:

• The one who pushes through laziness to pray Fajr on time is strengthening their soul.

• The one who resists sinful temptations is increasing their faith and self-control.

• The one who perseveres in Quran recitation and remembrance of Allah is building an unshakable connection with their Creator.

And if all of this is done with the sincere intention of seeking Allah’s pleasure, it becomes an act of worship and will be rewarded.

3. The True Self Discipline (Mujahada): Struggling Against Oneself in Obedience to Allah

Many people think of Jihad only in terms of battle. But the Prophet (PBUH) redefined what it truly means to strive for the sake of Allah:

“وَالْمُجَاهِدُ مَنْ جَاهَدَ نَفْسَهُ فِي طَاعَةِ اللهِ ”

“And the Mujāhid is the one who strives against his own self in obedience to Allah.”

(Narrated by Ahmad)

This Hadith clarifies that the greatest battle is within—the struggle against our own weaknesses, bad habits, and desires.

The self-discipline or struggle against the self (Jihad al-Nafs) is a lifelong effort. Every time you choose obedience over temptation, patience over frustration, sincerity over showing off—you are engaging in self-discipline (Mujahadah) for the sake of Allah.

 The true Mujahid is the one who fights laziness to be consistent in worship, the one who controls their tongue when angry, and the one who walks away from sin, even when no one is watching.

Final Reflection: Self-Discipline (Mujahadah) is the Path to Freedom

Many people think self-discipline is restricting—but in reality, it’s liberating.

• If you’re disciplined, you’re not a slave to your desires.

• If you control your time, you’re not a slave to distractions.

• If you control your anger, you’re not a slave to emotions.

Mujahadah frees you to live with purpose, sincerity, and devotion to Allah.

Because at the end of the day, Allah does not expect perfection—He asks for effort.

• What is one area where you need more discipline?
• What small act of Mujāhadah can you start today?

Every step you take brings you closer to Allah. May He grant us all strength in our striving. Ameen.