Hadith #1706

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, the Ahl al-Bayt, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

عَلى قَدْرِ البَلاءِ يَكُونُ الجَزاءُ۔

This Hadith can be translated as,

The reward is proportionate to the tribulation [endured].

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this impactful saying of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in the light of the Quran.

The word (balaa) "بَلاءِ" in this Hadith refers to trials, tribulations, or hardships that a person may face in their life. It encompasses various forms of difficulties, such as physical, emotional, or spiritual challenges. These trials can range from personal struggles to societal or global crises.

To understand the concept of reward being proportionate to tribulation, we can turn to the Quran for guidance. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says, (Quran 2:155)

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient

This verse highlights that trials and tribulations are an inevitable part of life, and they serve as tests to determine the strength of our faith and character.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ankabut, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) states, (Quran 29:2)

Do the people think that they will be left to say, 'We believe' and they will not be tested?

This verse emphasizes that belief alone is not sufficient; it is through the endurance of trials that our faith is truly tested and strengthened.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that the reward we receive from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is directly proportional to the magnitude of the trials we face. This means that the greater the difficulty we endure, the greater the reward we can expect from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

To illustrate this concept, let us consider the example of Prophet Job (Ayub) (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). He faced immense trials, including the loss of his wealth, health, and family. Despite his suffering, he remained patient and steadfast in his faith. As a result, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) rewarded him abundantly, restoring his health, wealth, and family, and elevating his status.

Similarly, we can look at the example of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his companions. They faced numerous challenges and hardships in spreading the message of Islam. They endured persecution, exile, and battles, yet they remained steadfast in their faith. Their unwavering commitment to Islam and their sacrifices were met with immense rewards from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

This Hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims that the difficulties we face in life should not discourage us or weaken our faith. Instead, we should view them as opportunities for growth and spiritual elevation. By enduring trials with patience, trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and seeking His guidance, we can attain a higher level of spiritual maturity and closeness to our Creator.

Moreover, this Hadith encourages us to have a positive outlook on challenges. Rather than viewing them as burdens, we should see them as blessings in disguise. Trials provide us with the chance to demonstrate our reliance on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), seek His help, and develop qualities such as patience, perseverance, and gratitude.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that the reward we receive from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) is directly proportional to the trials we endure. It reminds us to embrace challenges with patience, trust in Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and seek His guidance. By doing so, we can transform our difficulties into opportunities for spiritual growth and ultimately attain a higher level of reward in the Hereafter. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and wisdom to face our trials with patience and grant us the ultimate reward in the Hereafter.