PATIENCE AND TRUST
IN GOD

“As for those who, after persecution, migrated from their homes for the cause of God, We will provide them with a goodly abode in this life: but truly the reward of the Hereafter will be greater, if they only knew it. They are the ones who are steadfast and put their trust in their Lord.” (Quran, 16:41–42)

This verse of the Quran highlights the deep connection between patience (sabr) and trust in God (tawakkul). Patience is a great moral and spiritual virtue. But only those can remain committed to the path of patience who have immense trust in God, the Lord of all worlds.

The believers mentioned in this verse were people who had suffered injustice at the hands of their opponents. However, they did not respond with anger or revenge. They did not develop the urge to teach their oppressors a lesson or take vengeance. Instead, they quietly left the place where they were being wronged. Rather than confront people, they turned their attention toward God.

Their act of migration is referred to in the Quran as sabr (patience). It is then stated that these are the people who place their trust in God. The mention of trust in God (tawakkul) alongside patience is extremely significant. The truth is that no one can remain firm on the path of patience unless they possess the quality of reliance on God.

Someone who becomes aggressive in the face of adversity proves by their behaviour that they only believed in their own self. They had no awareness of the greater power of God. Had they truly understood God’s authority and His promises, they would have chosen patience—because they would be confident that by being patient, they are bringing a greater force to stand against their oppressor. That force belongs to the Master of the universe, from whose grasp no one can escape.