You May Dislike Something While It Is Better for You

You May Dislike Something While Allah Has Placed Much Good in It


This fatwa is taken from the book “500 Questions and Answers for Women,” based on the verdicts of the scholars of the Ḥaramayn. Translated by Ḥāfiẓ ʿAbdullāh Salīm.

❖ Question:​

Approximately five years ago, I became involved in a certain job. From the very first day, I have not been satisfied with it, as I feel incapable of fulfilling its duties as required. Therefore, I wish to leave this job and pursue a different field of work.


Before planning a career shift, I always perform the Ṣalāt al-Istikhārah prayer so that my efforts may proceed in the right direction. Afterward, I feel an inner openness (i.e., contentment) about leaving the job and practically begin working toward that transition. However, very soon it becomes clear that all hopes fade away, and everything returns to its previous state.


I have been trying to leave this job since that time, but so far, there has been no success. My question is:
Is it permissible to perform Ṣalāt al-Istikhārah for such a purpose?
And if it is allowed, what is the wisdom behind my being tied to this job for five years, despite disliking it and seeing no change?


Please provide a ruling. جزاكم الله خيرًا

❖ Answer:​

Do not view this job with disdain, even if you have remained in it for a long time. It is possible that this job is better for you than another, even if you are psychologically averse to it.


Continue striving to fulfill your duties to the best of your ability. If anything falls short despite sincere effort, it is excusable. Also, there is no harm in seeking another job while being patient and hopeful in Allah's mercy.


Do not despair of the mercy of Allah, nor be hasty in expecting the acceptance of your supplication. It may very well be that there is good in your current situation, though it is hidden from you.


Ṣalāt al-Istikhārah is a Sunnah and a highly virtuous act. It is quite likely that, in the knowledge of Allah, this job is better for you than others—despite your personal dislike for it.


﴾ وَعَسَىٰ أَن تَكْرَهُوا شَيْـًٔا وَهُوَ خَيْرٌ لَّكُمْ ﴿
"And it may be that you dislike a thing while it is good for you."
[Surah al-Baqarah: 216]

[Shaykh Muḥammad ibn Ṣāliḥ al-ʿUthaymīn رحمه الله]