Patience

Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi Raji’un

- “To Allah we belong, and to Him is our return.” (Surah Al Baqarah 2:156)

The translation of the verses mentioned before and after this ayah is (Surah Al Baqarah):

• 2:155 “Be sure We shall test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods or lives or the fruits (of your toil), but give glad tidings to those who patiently persevere (As-Sabirin),”
• 2:156 “Who say, when afflicted with calamity: “To Allah we belong, and to Him is our return”:-”
• 2:157 “They are those on whom (descend) blessings from their Lord, and Mercy, and they are the ones that receive guidance.”

A prevalent perception in our society is that the words “Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi Raji’un” are only recited at the time of someone’s death. However, this perception is not correct. This ayah is to be said in cases where a person has suffered any kind of loss, be it the death of a person (Muslim or non-Muslim) or any living creature, loss of wealth or property, deterioration of health, etc.

There is one Hadith where the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is quoted to have said “Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi Raji’un” when the lamp went off at night. ‘Aisha (May Allah be pleased with her) asked him, “O Messenger of Allah. Is this also a calamity?” Allah’s Messenger replied, “Yes. Whatever hurts or causes difficulty to a Muslim is a calamity and on bearing it patiently, it carries Allah’s promise of reward.”

This ayah reminds us that whatever is in this world belongs to Allah and is a Blessing from Him. If, for example, a person had given some money as loan to his friend for some time and now he wants the money back. Is the person doing anything wrong in wanting back his own money? Similarly when a person dies, Allah is only taking back the soul of His creation.

By reciting this ayah at the time of someone’s death, we remind ourselves that the creation has returned to his Creator. We also should bear in mind that just as the departed soul we ourselves will one day return to our Lord and be answerable for our deeds on the Day of Judgment before our entry into Paradise (Allah willing) or the Hellfire. With this in mind we should always strive to attain Allah’s Mercy, for no one but Allah knows the appointed time of death.