Trials and Tribulations By Imam ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah (d. 751H) With appendix from the work of al-Imam al-Izz bin Abd as-Salam (d. 660 H)(d. 751H)
A believer may face many trials and tribulations that test his faith, patience and endurance.
In a world full of conflict and war, with many also suffering from personal and family
problems, Shaytān causes a person to question many things. If a Muslim is tried with a
difficulty, then the reasons for this are many – including one’s own sin, which arises from
leaving something obligated in Islām or committing an act that is prohibited. Trials are
also a means of Allāh purifying and aiding His servants, ennobling them and granting well-
being through His Wisdom. The most severely of those who were tried were the Prophets
and then those closest to them in following their guidance.
In a world full of conflict and war, with many also suffering from personal and family
problems, Shaytān causes a person to question many things. If a Muslim is tried with a
difficulty, then the reasons for this are many – including one’s own sin, which arises from
leaving something obligated in Islām or committing an act that is prohibited. Trials are
also a means of Allāh purifying and aiding His servants, ennobling them and granting well-
being through His Wisdom. The most severely of those who were tried were the Prophets
and then those closest to them in following their guidance.
The Companions of Prophet Muhammad men suffered at the hands of their enemies; they
were eventually forced from their homes, leaving their possessions behind. The enemies
multiplied, and on occasions, they were physically overcome and defeated, with many
martyred. The Messenger of Allāhvern himself received an injury while his enemies rejoiced
and his associates despaired. They lived in a constant state of fear, destitution and poverty
– tying rocks to their stomachs out of severe hunger.
were eventually forced from their homes, leaving their possessions behind. The enemies
multiplied, and on occasions, they were physically overcome and defeated, with many
martyred. The Messenger of Allāhvern himself received an injury while his enemies rejoiced
and his associates despaired. They lived in a constant state of fear, destitution and poverty
– tying rocks to their stomachs out of severe hunger.
The state of hardship causes the servant to turn to Allāh, Mighty and Magnificent. Often
the state of ease, well-being and blessings cause a person to turn away from Allāh. In
tribulations, trials, misfortunes and calamities lay numerous wisdom and benefits, having
differing degrees of relevance, in accordance to the various ranks of people. Some believers
are afflicted with tribulation to such an extent that they end up walking on the earth with
no trace of sin remaining on them.
the state of ease, well-being and blessings cause a person to turn away from Allāh. In
tribulations, trials, misfortunes and calamities lay numerous wisdom and benefits, having
differing degrees of relevance, in accordance to the various ranks of people. Some believers
are afflicted with tribulation to such an extent that they end up walking on the earth with
no trace of sin remaining on them.
This amazing work deals with many aspects of trials and tribulations, including realising the
greatness of Allāh, showing humility and patience, increasing in sincerity and servitude for
Allāh, returning to supplication, hoping for expiation of sins and many other benefits. This
work is intended to boost one’s faith and aid every reader in developing an understanding on
how to better accustom themselves in times of calamities and refine their character.
greatness of Allāh, showing humility and patience, increasing in sincerity and servitude for
Allāh, returning to supplication, hoping for expiation of sins and many other benefits. This
work is intended to boost one’s faith and aid every reader in developing an understanding on
how to better accustom themselves in times of calamities and refine their character.
The author, Imām Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah (d. 751H), was one of the most prolific scholars of
Islām. His inimitable and distinct understanding of Qur’ān and Hadīth was acknowledged
by his peers, while his commentaries and interpretations remain unique in accuracy. He
studied under Shaykh al-Islām Ibn Taymiyyah for sixteen years and accompanied him until
the latter’s death. He authored over sixty works, covering a multitude of Islāmic sciences;
many of his writings are characterised by their touching address to the heart and soul. He was
deeply pious and took great care in how he utilised his time.
Islām. His inimitable and distinct understanding of Qur’ān and Hadīth was acknowledged
by his peers, while his commentaries and interpretations remain unique in accuracy. He
studied under Shaykh al-Islām Ibn Taymiyyah for sixteen years and accompanied him until
the latter’s death. He authored over sixty works, covering a multitude of Islāmic sciences;
many of his writings are characterised by their touching address to the heart and soul. He was
deeply pious and took great care in how he utilised his time.
