Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Prophet Ayoub (Job)

We spoke about the story of Prophet Ayoub (Job) yesterday night in class. Wish to share with the rest the story:

Job's body was filled with disease until it was reduced to mere skin and bone and he suffered severe pain. But through all the sufferings, Job remained strong in his faith, patiently bearing all the hardships without complaining. Even close relatives and friends deserted him. Only his kind, loving wife stayed with him. In his hour of need, she showered her kindness on him and cared for him. She remained his sole companion and comforter through the many years of suffering.

Iblis went to Job's wife in the form of a man. "Where is your husband?" he asked her.

She pointed to an almost lifeless form crumbled on the bed and said: "There he is, suspended between life and death."

Iblis reminded her of the days, when Job had good health, wealth and children. Suddenly, the painful memory of years of hardship overcame her, and she burst into tears. She said to Job: "How long are you going to bear this torture from our Lord? Are we to remain without wealth, children or friends forever? Why don't you call upon Allah to remove this suffering?"

Job sighed, and in a soft voice replied: "Iblis must have whispered to you and made you dissatisfied. Tell me how long did I enjoy good health and riches?"

She replied: "80 years."

Then Job replied: "How long am I suffering like this?"

She said: "7 years."

Job then told her: "In that case I am ashamed to call on my Lord to remove the hardship, for I have not suffered longer than the years of good health and plenty..."

21:83 - And (remember) Job, when He cried to his Lord, "Truly distress has seized me, but Thou art the Most Merciful of those that are merciful."
21:84 - So We listened to him: We removed the distress that was on him, and We restored his people to him, and doubled their number,- as a Grace from Ourselves, and a thing for commemoration, for all who serve Us.
38:44 - Truly! We found him patient. How excellent a slave! Verily, he was ever oft returning in repentance to Us!"

1 comment:

blue said...

Salam,

I can vividly recall you telling this story to the audience of your talk entitled 'Gratitude'.

That was the first time i heard it and has not forgotten it since.
Alhamdulillah.

Thank you ustaz.

You will be missed. :)