Introduction
Change is a process that demands patience, conviction, and resilience. In the Qur'an, Allah commands believers to remain steadfast despite trials and mockery, reminding them of the ultimate fulfillment of His promise:
"So, be patient. Surely, Allah’s promise is true. And let not those who have no certainty of faith discourage you." (Qur'an, Surah Ar-Rum, 30:60).
The Divine Command of Patience
Patience (sabr) is one of the most frequently emphasized virtues in Islam. Allah describes it as an attribute of the successful:
"Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without measure." (Qur'an, Surah Az-Zumar, 39:10).
Patience in the face of challenges is not passive but an active engagement with trials, sustained by trust in Allah’s plan. Scholars, such as Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyya, highlight that patience is of three types:
Patience in obeying Allah.
Patience in avoiding sins.
Patience in enduring hardships.
In each case, the believer is called to remain steadfast, knowing that every test is an opportunity for spiritual elevation.
Prophetic Teachings on Resilience
The life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) exemplifies resilience. Despite being mocked, persecuted, and driven out of his homeland, he remained steadfast. When the Quraysh ridiculed him for proclaiming the message of Islam, Allah reassured him:
"Indeed, We know that your heart is distressed by what they say. So glorify the praises of your Lord and be of those who prostrate." (Qur'an, Surah Al-Hijr, 15:97-98).
The Prophet’s advice to his companions also reflected this teaching. He said:
"The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, while there is good in both." (Sahih Muslim, 2664).
The Role of Conviction in Driving Change
Conviction (yaqeen) is the anchor of all meaningful change. It requires deep faith and certainty in the truth of one's cause. The Qur'an frequently pairs patience with certainty:
"And We made from among them leaders guiding by Our command when they were patient and [when] they were certain of Our signs." (Qur'an, Surah As-Sajdah, 32:24).
Imam Al-Ghazali, in his magnum opus Ihya Ulum ad-Din, explains that conviction stems from knowledge and reflection. Without it, patience wanes, and the individual becomes susceptible to doubt and ridicule.
Enduring Ridicule: Lessons from Prophets and Reformers
Prophets throughout history faced mockery, but their conviction in Allah’s promise never wavered. For example:
Prophet Nuh (Noah, peace be upon him):
His people ridiculed him for building the ark, yet he persisted in his mission, trusting Allah’s guidance (Qur'an, Surah Hud, 11:38-39).Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him):
He faced Pharaoh’s tyranny but remained steadfast, inspiring the Children of Israel to persevere (Qur'an, Surah Al-Qasas, 28:7).Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):
Despite relentless opposition, he transformed Arabian society and established a just state based on divine principles.
Practical Lessons for Modern Challenges
Resist Ridicule: Just as the prophets did, one must remain focused on their goals, understanding that mockery is often a reflection of the mocker’s insecurity, not the invalidity of the cause.
Seek Divine Help: Strengthen your connection with Allah through prayer and dhikr. The Qur'an reassures:
"And seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, it is difficult except for the humble." (Qur'an, Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:45).
Embrace Criticism: Constructive criticism can refine your efforts, while baseless ridicule should be a reminder to stay steadfast.
Trust the Process: Change takes time. As Imam Ibn Taymiyyah noted, enduring trials is a sign of being on the right path.
Conclusion
Patience and conviction are inseparable for anyone striving to effect meaningful change. Allah’s promise is true, and His reward for those who endure with certainty is immeasurable. As believers, we are called to rise above ridicule and trust in the divine plan. Remember: the greatest transformations in history were led by individuals who refused to let mockery shake their firmness.
"And rely upon Allah; and sufficient is Allah as Disposer of affairs." (Qur'an, Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:3).
Let this be a reminde
r to all seeking change: stay patient, remain firm in your conviction, and know that with Allah’s help, success is inevitable.
May Allah accept this as an act of ibaadaat. Aameen