Testing the Believers

Why do seemingly "bad" things happen to good people?

Do the people think that they will be left to say, “We believe,”
without being put to the test? (29:2)

God teaches us in the Quran that victory belongs to the believers in this life and in the Hereafter (40:51). God also teaches us that the believers will not be left without being tested.

Do the people think that they will be left to say, “We believe,” without being put to the test? We have tested those before them, for God must distinguish those who are truthful, and He must expose the liars. [29:2-3]

God is not to leave the believers as you are, without distinguishing the bad from the good…[3:179]

Do you expect to enter Paradise without being tested like those before you? [2:214]

The Test

God’s testing of the believers will vary. It may be mild and light or hard and exacting. Sickness, fear, hunger, poverty, death, loss of power or control, losing a battle, failing an examination, failing a marriage, failing a business, losing a job or a friend and so on are just a few examples. Testing may also be in the form of blessings, wealth, health, knowledge, children, family, security, peace…etc. What to do with these blessings is a great test. The test may also be given by testing us by one another. The true believers submit to God in all cases and under all circumstances.

We will surely test you through some fear, hunger, and loss of money, lives, and crops. Give

good news to the steadfast. [2:155]

You should know that your money and your children are a test, and that God possesses a great recompense. [8:28]

Who will be tested?

The Quran shows us that all the believers will be tested, prophets, messengers, saints, righteous people, all will be tested.

We will certainly put you to the test, in order to distinguish those among you who strive, and steadfastly persevere. We must expose your true qualities. [47:31]

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