Introduction: Redefining Freedom
When most people hear the word freedom, they think of open skies, unlocked doors, and the ability to choose whatever path they want. Society often defines freedom as doing whatever pleases the self. But Islam offers a different perspective. True freedom is not the absence of restriction but liberation from the chains of desire, ego, and sin.
I discovered this lesson most profoundly in prison, where physical freedom was stripped away. Ironically, it was behind bars that I found the deepest form of freedom, the freedom of the soul through Islam. Whether inside a cell or walking freely outside, a Muslim who surrenders to Allah is never imprisoned.
The Qur’an on True Freedom
The Qur’an repeatedly emphasizes that the greatest bondage is not physical but spiritual. Allah says:
“Have you seen the one who takes his desires as his god?” (Qur’an 45:23)
This verse reframes freedom. A person may walk outside prison walls but still be enslaved to wealth, status, addiction, or the opinions of others. Islam calls us to break those chains and submit only to Allah. That submission is the foundation of absolute independence.
Another verse reminds us:
“And whoever turns away from My remembrance—indeed, he will have a depressed life.” (Qur’an 20:124)
Living for desires may look like freedom, but it leads to emptiness. Living for Allah brings clarity, peace, and liberation.
The Prophet ﷺ and the Sunnah on Freedom
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ demonstrated freedom in its most valid form: freedom from worldly attachments. He lived, often going hungry, yet his heart was at peace. He taught:
“True richness is not having many possessions. Rather, true richness is the richness of the soul.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
His companions embodied this as well. Once an enslaved person in Mecca, Bilal ibn Rabah (RA) became one of the freest men in history when he declared, “Ahadun Ahad—Allah is One, Allah is One.” Physical chains could not imprison his spirit.
The Sunnah teaches us that freedom is not found in how much control we have over our lives, but in how deeply we trust Allah’s power.
Freedom Inside Prison vs. Outside Prison
Walls and bars limit movement in prison, but they cannot limit faith. Many people assume prisoners are the least free. Yet I discovered that the opposite can be true. With fewer distractions, I was free to reflect, pray sincerely, and rebuild my relationship with Allah. Solitude became my teacher.
Outside prison, many live surrounded by choices, noise, and temptations, yet remain trapped, imprisoned by materialism, comparison, and the constant chase for more. A person may have no walls around them, but if their desires enslave them, they are not truly free.
This is why Islam is universal. Whether behind bars or in the busiest city, it gives believers the same key to freedom: submission to Allah.
Lessons of True Freedom in Islam
True freedom in Islam means:
- Freedom from Sin: By turning to Allah in repentance, you free yourself from the weight of past mistakes.
- Freedom from Fear: Trusting Allah’s decree removes anxiety about the future.
- Freedom from People’s Opinions: Pleasing Allah matters more than pleasing creation.
- Freedom from Materialism: Contentment (qana’ah) is richer than wealth.
- Freedom from Ego: Humility opens the door to growth and closeness to Allah.
These lessons are accessible to anyone, anywhere.
Modern Misconceptions About Freedom
Today, freedom is often marketed as the ability to do anything. But this so-called freedom usually leads to addiction, burnout, and emptiness. The pursuit of pleasure without boundaries does not free us; it enslaves us.
Islam gently corrects this misconception. By setting boundaries (halal and haram), it protects us from harming ourselves. Rules that may seem restrictive actually preserve dignity, family, community, and inner peace. Just as traffic lights restrict movement but save lives, Allah’s guidance may limit specific actions but secures true well-being.
Practical Ways to Experience True Freedom
Here are steps any Muslim can take to taste absolute freedom today:
- Daily Dhikr: Remembrance of Allah frees the heart from stress and anchors it in peace.
- Simplify Possessions: Practice contentment by decluttering and valuing what matters.
- Set Digital Boundaries: Limit social media to avoid the prison of comparison.
- Regular Salah: Five daily prayers remind you that you belong to Allah, not the world.
- Fasting Beyond Ramadan: Train the soul to resist desire and grow in discipline.
- Seek Forgiveness Often: Free yourself from guilt by asking Allah’s pardon.
Even small steps restore dignity, focus, and serenity.
Freedom in the Lives of the Sahaba
The companions of the Prophet ﷺ embodied true freedom in remarkable ways. Salman al-Farisi (RA) journeyed across lands seeking the truth until he found Islam, proving that freedom is the courage to seek guidance no matter the cost. Suhaib ar-Rumi (RA) sacrificed his wealth to migrate to Medina, showing that freedom lies not in possessions but faith. Once chained as an enslaved person, Bilal ibn Rabah (RA) became a symbol of dignity when he called the adhan with unwavering strength. Their lives remind us that true freedom is not external; it is the soul’s submission to Allah.
Reflection for the Reader
Pause for a moment and ask yourself:
- What “prisons” of desire, habit, or fear might hold me back?
- Do I mistake worldly freedom for true freedom?
- How could submitting more deeply to Allah bring liberation to my life?
A Journey Shared in My Book
My personal story proves that freedom is not tied to place but to faith. Behind prison walls, I discovered that Islam unlocks the truest kind of liberation, the freedom of the soul. That same freedom is available to every believer, regardless of circumstance.
Embrace True Freedom: Take the First Step Today
In Practicing Islam in Prison and Society, I share how Islam transformed my understanding of freedom and gave me peace even when everything else was stripped away. If you’ve ever longed for real liberation, I invite you to read my journey and discover how surrendering to Allah leads to the most actual freedom.