In a world where Muslims face increasing trials, mockery, and pressure to abandon their faith, this powerful reminder calls every believer to stand firm upon the truth. Drawing from the Quran and authentic hadith, the message is clear: the struggles of this life are temporary, but the reward for patience and steadfastness is eternal Paradise.
Trials Are Part of the Believer’s Path
Allah has told us plainly in the Quran that we will be tested in our wealth, our health, and our personal lives. We will hear things that grieve us from those who oppose Islam. But the believers who persevere patiently and maintain consciousness of Allah will find that this patience becomes a determining factor in all their affairs. The companions before us endured far worse — they were tortured, sawed in half, and raked through their flesh — yet none of that turned them away from their religion.
“Amongst those before you there was a man who was seized and put into a hole in the ground, then a saw was brought and put to his head and he was sawed in half — yet none of that turned him away from his religion. Verily, you are a people that are hasty.”
Glad Tidings for the Strangers
- The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said Islam began as something strange and will return to being strange — so glad tidings to the strangers
- The strangers are those who remain pious and righteous when the people around them have become corrupt
- Feeling out of place in a society that contradicts Islamic values is a sign that you are on the right path
- Tuba — a tree in Paradise whose shade takes 100 years to cross — is promised to those who live as strangers for the sake of Allah
“Islam began as something strange and it will return to being something strange. So glad tidings of Paradise to the strangers — those who are pious and righteous when the people have become evil.”
Stand Proud and Stay Patient
There is no reason for a Muslim to feel embarrassed about their faith. We are the believers of the One True Lord who created the heavens and the earth. When people call you a stranger, keep Paradise in your sights, for that will be the most perfect place to ever exist. Be patient, raise your head high, and hold fast to the rope of Allah.
