The Continuous Test of Life

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We live in a world whereby we as Muslims and humans are always being tested. The various forms of tests differ for every individual. Human nature is described as ‘ungrateful and unthankful’, for the blessings that surround us. We tend to look at others’ fortune and see how happy they are, and always compare our lifestyle to theirs, by not knowing their difficulties and struggles.

This approach to life and in general is wrong; the sign of a true believer is that he is content with what he/she has. 

Allah (swt) has said In the Qur’an 

وَلَسَوْفَ يُعْطِيكَ رَبُّكَ فَتَرْضَىٰٓ 

“And ˹surely˺ your Lord will give so much to you that you will be pleased”. (Surah Duha, Verse 5) 

We can clearly understand from this verse, Allah (SWT) will give us everything that we deserve and we should be content and pleased with what we have received. Let us not complain or be ungrateful; rather we should thank Allah (SWT) and reflect upon those who are less unfortunate. Surely, they must be thinking the same! 

While we are tested during the time of hardship, we are also tested at the time of ease. We will have all the luxuries and ease of this life; however, during that time of ease, we are still tested. All the aforementioned are not new to us. 

Allah (SWT) has said to us in the Qur’an: 

وَلَنَبْلُوَنَّكُم بِشَيْءٍ مِّنَ الْخَوْفِ وَالْجُوعِ وَنَقْصٍ مِّنَ الْأَمْوَالِ وَالْأَنفُسِ وَالثَّمَرَاتِ وَبَشِّرِ الصَّابِرِين 

“And surely We shall try you with something of fear and hunger, and loss of wealth and lives and crops; but give glad tidings to the steadfast”. (Surah Baqarah, verse 155) 

This is a clear verse of how Allah will test us and how he will reward us. Islam is a beautiful yet simple religion for us to follow, however, we make it complicated for ourselves. The instructions, guidelines, and reminders are clear.  

Hardship or suffering is considered a blessing in disguise, you might think how or why? When we are in a situation as such the first thing we do after complaining and pointing the finger at someone, is ask Allah (SWT) for help and make dua for ease through this difficult situation.

Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (saw) said “whoever Allah wants good for him, he puts them to test and puts them through difficulty” (Sahih Bukhari). 

The most common question that is asked by any individual whether it is in a gathering or amongst friends is what is the meaning of life? What does life mean to you? The most common answers are based upon being a good Muslim, obtaining a good degree, job, and a successful future. However, following Islam, the answer to this common question is: 

  1. As Muslims, our purpose in life is to worship Allah (SWT) tests are a mean to fulfil that promise. 
  2. Follow the Qur’an and Sunnah ONLY to the best of our ability 
  3. Tests are given to strengthen our faith, we aim to enter the highest rank of heaven 

Finally, a test can be a form of protection that might have harmed us, or being deprived of something that is not good for us, even if we think it is good for us.  

Allah (SWT) has said in the Qur’an: 

فَإِن كَرِهْتُمُوهُنَّ فَعَسَى أَن تَكْرَهُواْ شَيْئًا وَيَجْعَلَ اللّهُ فِيهِ خَيْرًا كَثِيرًا 

Then if you dislike them, it may be that you dislike a thing while Allah has placed abundant good in it. (Surah Nisa, verse 19) 

Be mindful of the way you approach your life and in every step remember Allah (SWT). 

May Allah (SWT) grant us ease in our future trials and test, Ameen.


About the Author

Haseeb Ul Haq is the Principal of the Saturday School and Hifdh Class Coordinator. He is a graduate of BA Islamic studies from SOAS University of London and a MA in Islamic Law. During the week he also works in the Education Sector

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