Divided we fall [8:46]

Verse 46 of Sura Anfal comes with a warning:

وَلاَ تَنَازَعُواْ فَتَفْشَلُواْ وَتَذْهَبَ رِيحُكُمْ

"And do not quarrel, for then you will lose heart and your power will depart."
(Surah Al-Anfal 8:46)

As we have been saying, conflict within a homogenous or a diverse group—whether it’s a marriage, family, workplace team, or community—is inevitable. Differences in thought, personality, and approach are natural when people interact in personal relationships or even work together. But the strength of a team is not lost in conflict. We do not need to be afraid of differences or seek to avoid them as they can result in growth. We do need to be careful in how we manage them.

This verse from the Quran reminds us that division weakens us. The word used in the verse, rīh (wind), is particularly striking. Just as a sailboat loses its momentum when it loses the wind in its sails, families, groups and teams and communities lose their power, energy, and effectiveness when they allow petty quarrels to divert their focus and overtake their mission.

The psychological impact of conflict within teams

Whether it is a family, a marriage relationship or a working group, we can think of these groups of people as a team, which is defined as a group of people coming together to achieve a common goal.

Modern psychology confirms what the Quran teaches: unresolved internal conflict within teams drains energy, lowers morale, and reduces effectiveness. Studies on workplace and relationship dynamics reveal the following effects of division:

1. Loss of Collective Focus– When people in a group argue over minor issues, they shift their attention away from shared goals and instead focus on personal grievances. This weakens motivation and commitment.

2. Emotional Exhaustion– Constant arguing or tension within a team leads to stress and burnout. People disengage, become cynical, or simply stop contributing.

3. Breakdown of Trust– When disagreements turn into personal attacks or rivalries, trust deteriorates. Without trust, collaboration becomes impossible.

4. Reduced Problem-Solving Ability– Conflict activates the brain’s fight-or-flight response, making people defensive rather than creative. Instead of working towards solutions, teams get stuck in cycles of blame and resistance.

5. Vulnerability to hostile forces – The easiest way for enemies to overpower a group is to sow dissent within as this results in the group to become vulnerable and self-destruct.  

The power of unity: How strong teams overcome differences

Rather than eliminating differences, research on leadership and team dynamics shows that successful teams find ways to channel their diversity into strength. Turns out that high-functioning teams share certain characteristics:

1. They Stay Focused on a Shared Goal– Teams that thrive do not get distracted by ego-driven disputes. They keep their eyes on the bigger picture.

2. They Encourage Open, Respectful Dialogue– Strong teams allow room for different perspectives without allowing differences to turn into personal battles.

3. They Address Conflicts Early & Constructively– Instead of letting resentment build, successful teams find ways to discuss and resolve tensions before they escalate.

4. They Appreciate Different Strengths– Effective teams understand that different styles and perspectives complement each other. Instead of seeing differences as a threat, they recognize them as an asset with the potential for complementing existing strengths.

Practical Steps: How Can We Stay United?

1. Recognize That Differences Are Inevitable– Instead of viewing disagreements as a sign of failure, see them as a normal part of teamwork and relationships.

2. Shift from "Me vs. You" to "Us vs. the Problem"– Many teams fall apart because members become fixated on winning arguments rather than solving problems. We can make a lot of progress if we shift our mindset to the team against the problem.

3. Manage Ego & Personal Attacks– Conflicts often escalate because of pride, defensiveness, and a desire to be right. Step back and ask: What is more important—proving my point or strengthening this relationship?

4. Use a Conflict Resolution System– If tensions arise, use a simple three-step approach:

o   Acknowledge the issue – Bring up concerns early rather than letting them fester.

o   Listen with curiosity – Instead of formulating a defense, try to understand the other person's perspective.

o   Find common ground – Look for solutions that benefit the entire team rather than just one side.

5. Seek Mediation When Needed– If internal efforts fail, involve a neutral third party (a mentor, leader, coach, counsellor or mediator) to help understand each other and find a balanced resolution.

Harnessing the wind of unity

The Quran warns us that disunity weakens us and unity propels us forward. Just as a ship cannot move without the force of the wind, we cannot succeed as families, communities, or organizations unless we actively focus on brings us together rather than what sets us apart.

In today’s world it is more than an idealistic vision. It is a matter of our survival.

Divided, we fall. United, we thrive.

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Wishing you a day full of spiritual fulfillment, positivity, purpose and peace.