Imam Ibn Jawzi on Trials, Dua, and the Strength of Faith

Understanding Trials and the Power of Dua: Insights from Imam Ibn Jawzi

Imam Ibn Jawzi رحمه الله regarding trials and dua:

“The iman of believer is revealed in times of hardship, when he exerts himself in dua yet sees no sign of it being answered , and his hope and longing doesn’t change even if the causes of despair become strong.

Due to his knowledge that the truth (Allah) is most knowing of what is beneficial , or perhaps what’s intended is patience and faith, for he did not judge him with that except to see the submission of his heart, to see how his patience is, or he wants an increase of seeking refuge and supplication.

As for the one who wants his supplication answered quickly, and complains if it is delayed, for that is the one who is weak in faith , and thinks he has a right for the answering of his supplication, as if he is seeking the payment of his actions.

Yayuub peace be upon him remained years in trail, and his hope didn’t change, and when the lost binyameen was added to the lost of Yusuf he’s hope still didn’t change and he said:

“Perhaps Allah will bring them all back to me“

And this meaning was made clear in Allah’s statement:

“Or do you think that you will enter Paradise while such [trial] has not yet come to you as came to those who passed on before you ? They were touched by poverty and hardship and were shaken until [even their] messenger and those who believed with him said,”When is the help of Allah?”

Unquestionably, the help of Allah is near”

And it is known that this statement wasn’t said by the messenger ﷺ and the believers except after a long period of trial and near despair of relief.

So beware, and beware of lengthening the period of trial and growing weary of constant dua, for you are trialed with trials and it’s required of you to come with patience and dua, and don’t despair from the mercy of Allah, even if the trial is prolonged.”

صيد الخاطر ” لابن الجوزي (ص: 438)