✿ The Question
This is a frequently raised question: why are the prayers of those who worship Allah seemingly unanswered, while disbelievers enjoy a comfortable life? Similarly, why do righteous people suffer, and those who engage in sin seem to prosper?
❀ Clarifying the Islamic Perspective
Since the objection is directed toward religion, it is necessary first to explain the Islamic worldview. Islam considers this worldly life a field of trial and testing. Without understanding this principle, no satisfactory answer can be given to the contradictions observed in worldly affairs.
❀ The Nature of the World
According to Islam, life in this world is a test, as the Qur'an states:
الَّذِي خَلَقَ الْمَوْتَ وَالْحَيَاةَ لِيَبْلُوَكُمْ أَيُّكُمْ أَحْسَنُ عَمَلًا
(Surah Al-Mulk: 2)
"He created death and life to test which of you is best in deeds."
Thus, every element — joy and sorrow, ease and hardship — is part of this test. Everyone is undergoing a trial through their respective circumstances.
❀ The Purpose of Trials
Humans have been granted free will — the liberty to choose between good and evil. Both paths have been made clear, and the choice lies with the individual. As a result, some people choose faith and endure worldly hardship, while others treat this world as their paradise.
❀ System of Reward and Punishment
The righteous endure tests in this world and will be rewarded in the Hereafter. Conversely, the disobedient may enjoy temporary pleasure but will face consequences in the next life. Thus, this world is a realm of trial for believers and a provisional enjoyment for the faithless.
❀ Objection: Why Are the Righteous Poor While the Wicked Prosper?
This is a common objection, and it must be examined from two perspectives:
❀ External Success
Wealth, health, and status are outward symbols of success. However, true success lies in inner peace and contentment. If a person possesses material abundance but is spiritually restless, they are not truly successful.
❀ Inner Success
The people of Allah attain peace and tranquility through remembrance and worship, regardless of whether they are wealthy or poor. On the other hand, sinners may possess luxury, but they are deprived of genuine inner peace.
❀ A Parable
A dervish was once asked if he would trade his poverty for the riches of a king. The dervish replied that he was content in his spiritual poverty and would never exchange it for worldly wealth, as it would cost him his inner joy.
✿ Conclusion
Righteous individuals may experience worldly hardship and lack visible luxury, yet they are granted peace of heart and glad tidings of high ranks in the Hereafter. Disbelievers, despite their material pleasures, live in inner turmoil. Islam teaches that ultimate success is not measured by wealth but by the tranquility of the heart and the reward in the Hereafter.
