Du‘a in Times of Hardship: Causes and Divine Wisdom

❀ Objection:​

Why should I call upon a God who doesn’t help me in my time of distress?

✔ Response:​

This relationship is not a transactional exchange like between two human beings—where one gives to receive in return. It is the connection between the Creator and His creation. If you have accepted Allah as your Creator, then setting conditions in worship is meaningless. Allah is free of all needs; He does not require our prayers or recognition. It makes no difference to Him whether one acknowledges Him or not.

✿ Possible Reasons for Delayed Acceptance of Du‘a:​

➊ Lack of Effort and Means:
Du‘a requires accompanying effort through lawful means. Simply relying on du‘a while ignoring necessary actions is not correct. Expecting a miracle without effort contradicts the very principles of Shari‘ah.

➋ Worldly Punishment for Past Mistakes:
Sometimes hardships or illnesses are a means of expiation for past sins, saving the individual from punishment in the hereafter.

➌ Divine Wisdom:
Not every du‘a is answered immediately. Allah knows what is best, and when it is best. There are people whose du‘as were answered after long delays, and in hindsight, they expressed gratitude for the timing. Sometimes we insist on something that later proves to be harmful for us.

❖ On Marital and Personal Issues:​

A person may perform prayers, give charity, recite daily adhkar, and still feel unanswered. One must realize that righteous deeds are never wasted. The reward for sincere action often lies beyond this world.

✔ The Essence of Du‘a:​

Du‘a does not negate the importance of effort. Seeking treatment, making plans, and striving are part of the du‘a process. Du‘a complements effort—it doesn’t replace it.

❀ Conclusion:​

The impact of du‘a is real, but it manifests for those with determination and effort. Du‘a is not for the passive and idle, but for those who combine it with action and seek help from Allah with sincerity.