Question
In general, the stronger the tribulation that a Muslim overcomes , the greater will be his reward. Normally people will make doa like “May Allah makes it easy for you”,etc. But then if the tribulation is easy, one would perhaps have lesser rewards! I think it would be better to doa “May Allah gives you the strength to overcome the tribulation”.
What do you think?
Answer
The prayer you suggest is nice and I have nothing against it. However, one should not assume that asking the Almighty for ease translates into laziness or shirking responsibility. Asking for help in difficult times does not mean the person is asking God to make everything easy. Rather, the request is for God to help in difficult situations and make what seems insurmountable more hopeful to overcome and to cope better.
There are two fundamental things you should consider regarding your question:
- The fact that pursuing “rewards,” whether in this life or the hereafter, is not our primary goal as Muslims. In perspective, it should be appreciated that our relationship and closeness to the Almighty is what we should seek. It is the most significant aspect of our faith. Looking to be rewarded for this or that leaves a person seeking compensation for good deeds. This may take away from growing the seeds of goodness from within and committing righteousness for God’s sake versus for reward. The latter will help the individual do those righteous acts because it has become their nature, without any thought of reward. Please don’t misunderstand, rewards are a natural motivation for people but ultimately one has to come to terms and understand that the end goal is the relationship we build with the Almighty.
- Trials, tribulations and austerity does not equal piety. Far too long people have believed that a person who suffers or is stringent is pious. This notion is wrong and has no place in Islam. Being devout does not necessitate being ascetic. Islam condones the pursuit of happiness, health and even wealth. The world is a blessing that we may enjoy even if it is merely a stop on our way to our final destination. There is nothing in Islam that requires Muslims to lead an austere life and those who live that way should not be viewed as being better than others. That is something for God to decide.
Again, your supplication is a thoughtful one as long as you don’t regard it better than others, especially when the religion itself does not posit any such thing.
I hope this helps.
God knows best.