What are the other rewards that the Prophet (SA) presents in...

What are the other rewards that the Prophet (SA) presents in his second statement? Another three bounties which are related this time to the worldly affairs, while the first set of rewards as you may recall were related to the hereafter and spirituality.

By this unique presentation of the rewards of the Hereafter before the rewards of this life, the Prophet (SA) is emphasizing the message that what is generally more important and should come first in our list of priorities is the affairs of the after-life where we will abode eternally. Hence, all our actions must be aligned with the priorities we identify in our lives.

We should also recognize that the higher degree of reward or value lies in what is associated with our spirituality, and not what is related to our transient life. Allah (SWT) is Merciful to His servants and is All-Aware of the troubles and tribulations they face in their everyday lives.

The life of this world is indeed a great test especially for the believers and no one can escape the test of Allah (SWT) either in their wealth, property, or children as He (SWT) said, وَلَنَبْلُوَنَّكُمْ بِشَيْءٍ مِنَ الْخَوْفِ وَالْجُوعِ وَنَقْصٍ مِنَ الْأَمْوَالِ وَالْأَنْفُسِ وَالثَّمَرَاتِ “And We will most certainly try you with somewhat of fear and hunger and loss of property and lives and fruits.” (2:155) As humans, we are all in need of divine assistance in the many issues and problems which we face every day.

Allah (SWT) tests our patience and perseverance during our hard times, but He (AS) also opened the door for supplication and prayer so that we seek His help in all our affairs. The three worldly rewards which the Prophet (SA) conveys are as follows: The distressed person will be relieved from his distress. The aggrieved person will be relieved from his grief. A person who has a need or request will have their prayer accepted and fulfilled.

Each one of us certainly experience one of the above three situations often in our lives and the third case is even more common among all people. We are promised to be freed from distress, grief, and have our needs fulfilled simply by reciting this narration in a gathering of believers who are devoted to the Prophet’s AhlulBayt (AS). We are encouraged to pause at the conclusion of this narration and present our needs to the Almighty Creator.

Certainly this is a great gift and an easy-pass access to the mercy of Allah (SWT)!

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