Host: Robert Andaluz

Episode Summary

In this episode, we continue our study of psychology through an Islamic perspective, drawing from Dr. Aisha Utz's book Psychology: From an Islamic Perspective. This week's discussion centers on the concept of divine agency — how God's control over our own circumstances — relates to our own free will, and how surrendering the illusion of human "power" over our stress can bring peace to the heart.

In This Episode, we get into

• The Ruh Report — a roundup of psychology news from the Muslim world
• What Have We Learned? — a recap of Dr. Utz's critique of secular psychological theory
• Main Discussion — God as the "owner and master" of the universe, the difference between the choices we're given and the choices we make, and how reliance on God (tawakkul) can relieve the stress of loss, rejection, and criticism

The Ruh Report — This Week's News

• Dr. Francesca Bocca-Aldaqre begins a new online cohort exploring Ilm al-Nafs (the Islamic science of the soul) starting Sunday, September 13. More info: bloggingtheologyacademy.com
• Cambridge Muslim College (UK) — Islam & Psychology postgraduate certificate begins Tuesday, September 15. Admissions currently closed; check cambridgemuslimcollege.ac.uk for reopening.

Key Takeaways

• Dr. Utz reviewed 250 secular psychological theories and argues none offer a complete understanding of human nature — she posits that submission to God provides a clearer framework for mental health.
• Human agency lies in choosing among the options presented to us — not in controlling what those options are (p. 33).
• Believing that only God can truly benefit or harm us can strip stressful events (a hurtful comment, financial loss, rejection) of the illusion of ultimate power they seem to hold over us.
• Reflection prompt from the episode: Could the person or thing that hurt you have done so without permission from something greater than themselves?

Quran Citations Referenced

• Surah Al-Kahf (18) — on saying "InshaAllah"
• Surah Az-Zumar (39:38) — on God as creator and sole source of harm or mercy
• Surah Al-Jathiyah (45:23) — on taking one's own desires as one's god

Book Referenced

Psychology: From an Islamic Perspective by Dr. Aisha Utz

While We're Here Instagram: @whilewerehere.pc Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/whilewerehere

Connect & Follow If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who is seeking clarity, healing, or a deeper understanding of themselves and their Creator.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/whilewerehere.pc

YOUTUBE! www.youtube.com/@PsychinIslam

BE A SUPPORTER OF THE SHOW!

Support the show: ko-fi.com/whilewerehere