A Simple Lesson of Tawakkul

Tawakkul, the Islamic concept of having complete reliance on Allah, is a fundamental tenet for Muslims.

It encourages believers to exert their best effort in any undertaking

while placing their full trust in Allah for the outcome. This blog post delves deeper into the concept of Tawakkul, supported by verses from the Quran and Hadith.

Understanding Tawakkul (A Simple Lesson of Tawakkul)

Tawakkul translates to ‘trust’ or ‘reliance’ in English.

It entails making proper use of the means (Sabr) and resources available

while acknowledging that the ultimate outcome is not entirely in human hands, but in the hands of Allah.

Quranic Insights on Tawakkul( A Simple Lesson of Tawakkul)

1. Surah Al-Imran [3:159] states, ‘And it was by God’s grace that you (Muhammad) were gentle to them.

Had you been harsh and hard-hearted, they would surely have scattered away from you.’

This verse instructs us to follow the Prophet’s example of patience and gentleness

placing our trust in Allah to guide others towards the truth.

2. In Surah Al-Ankabut [29:2], Allah reminds us, ‘Do the people think that they will be left alone, and they will not say: ‘We believe,’ while they have not been tested?’ This verse underscores the necessity of placing trust in Allah during difficult times, recognizing trials as an essential part of faith development.

3. Surah Al-Fajr [89:15-16] states, ‘And as for man, when his Lord tries him and [thus] is generous to him and Favors him, he says, ‘My Lord has honoured me.’ But when He tries him and restricts his provision, he says, ‘My Lord has humiliated me.” This verse juxtaposes the varying responses people have towards blessings and hardship, highlighting the significance of Tawakkul in both prosperity and adversity.

Hadiths on Tawakkul

1. It was narrated from Anas bin Malik that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said,

‘Whoever would be pleased for Allah to answer him when he asks

let him ask much of that which is little,

and let him decrease his requests for this world, for the Hand of Allah

is full, emptying it for the wretched and the blessed.

What any one of you is given is merely the morsel of sustenance that is decreed for him.’ [Sunan Ibn Majah 3849]

2. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (ﷺ) said,

‘The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, although both are good.

Strive for that which will benefit you, seek the help of Allah, and do not feel helpless.

If anything afflicts you, do not say: ‘If only I had done something else’

but say: ‘Allah has decreed and what He wills He does.’

For saying ‘If only I had…’ creates a sense of regret over the past, and ‘Allah has decreed and

what He wills He does’ is more likely to alleviate what has been

missed and a believer should not allow himself to feel helpless.’ [Riyad As-Salihin 1424]

Conclusion

Developing the spiritual discipline of Tawakkul calls for unyielding faith in Allah’s wisdom and kindness. By understanding and applying Tawakkul, as underscored by verses from the Quran and Hadith, believers can foster fortitude amid life’s challenges, finding solace and strength through fully placing their trust in Allah.