The Wisdom of Suffering – Why We Suffer

“Why We Suffer” is a series that explores why there is suffering in the world, and how we should respond to evil according to Allah’s teachings. In this segment, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani speaks about why we experience difficulty.

Shaykh Faraz opens the session by exploring the reasons behind tests and trials, and how we can benefit from difficulty, tests and trails.

Trials tend to bring out the hidden virtues, or vices, in people. These trials serve as an examination, allowing us to realise our potential and limits as human beings. But most importantly, trials and difficulties are a means of  getting to know our Creator.

The purpose of these tests can be found in the following verse of the Qur’an:

  [He] who created death and life to test you, which of you is best in deed – and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving. (67:2)

Both the times of ease and times of difficulty teach us more about Allah and His different attributes, and help us build our connection to Him. Furthermore, they teach us that only Allah is in charge. When we experience suffering or some sort of difficulty, we are humbled to this reality.

Therefore, we are tested not just how we respond to the obvious tests of difficulty, but also how we respond to times of ease and success and happiness.

About the Series

Shaykh Hamza Karamali (Dean of Academics at SeekersHub Global) and our founder Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explain the Islamic understanding of why there are tests, trials, evil and suffering in this life. They address questions such as: What is the wisdom and purpose behind evil and suffering in this life? How should we respond to evil, suffering, tests, and trials? What are the spiritual teachings of Allah and His Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) to respond with trials?

Resources for Seekers

https://seekers.flywheelstaging.com/articles/featured-articles/seekershub-toronto-retreat-2018-planting-seeds-of-faith/