The greater the tribulation, the greater the reward. When Allah loves people, He tests them. So whoever who is content, for him is content; and whoever is discontent, for him is discontent
Anas ibn Mālik (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: “The greater the tribulation, the greater the reward. When Allah loves people, He tests them. So whoever is content, for him is pleasure; and whoever is discontent, for him is displeasure.”
Attribution: Narrated by Ibn Majah - Narrated by At-Termedhy
Grade: Authentic hadith
Explanation
The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) says that the believer might be afflicted with personal, family, financial, or other crises. If he is patient, Allah will reward him. The more terrible the crisis, the greater the reward one gets from Allah. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) further indicates that tribulations are a sign that Allah loves a believer, and that Allah's predetermination is inevitable. However, the person who is patient and content, Allah will reward him by being pleased with him. That indeed is a satisfactory reward. On the other hand, the person who is discontent and bitter with Allah's decree, Allah will be dissatisfied and angry with him. That is an appropriate punishment.
Benefits
Afflictions expiate sins unless they lead to the abandonment of an obligation, like patience, or the perpetration of wrongdoing, like tearing up one’s clothes or slapping one’s cheeks.
It establishes the attribute of love for Allah Almighty in a way that befits His majesty.
An affliction to the believer is one of the signs of faith.
It establishes the attribute of contentment and discontentment for Allah Almighty in a way that befits His majesty.
It is recommended to show contentment with Allah’s decree and predestination.
It is prohibited to be discontent with Allah’s decree and predestination.
It urges us to endure afflictions patiently.
A person may dislike something whereas it is good for him.
