The Chief Imam of the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Alhaji Lawal Olaoye, has encouraged Muslims to remain firm in their faith, emphasizing that trials are an integral part of life’s divine test for believers.
Speaking on Sunday at the fourth annual Ramadan lecture organized by the Ile Alfa Sons and Daughters of the Aliwo Royal Family, Agodi, Ibadan, the cleric explored the theme: “Why Do God-Fearing People Suffer While Evil-Doers Enjoy?”
Olaoye explained that in Islam, challenges serve as pathways for spiritual growth and a means to draw closer to Allah.
Citing the Quran, he underscored the significance of patience and perseverance, assuring believers of divine rewards for their steadfastness.
“Challenges are not signs of abandonment by Allah but a test of faith. The righteous endure trials because Allah wants to elevate their status and purify them,” he stated.
The cleric categorized people into four distinct groups, noting their varying life experiences. He elaborated that:
Some enjoy worldly pleasures but face loss in the hereafter.
Some experience hardship in this life and still lose in the hereafter.
Some are blessed in both this life and the hereafter.
Some neither prosper in this life nor in the hereafter.
“The Paradise is surrounded by hardships and the Hell-Fire is surrounded by temptations,” he noted, referencing a Hadith that illustrates the trials of believers and the deceptive ease of worldly pleasures for non-believers.
Quoting from the Holy Quran, Olaoye further referenced another Hadith, stating, “In another Hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is reported to have said that the most affluent people in this world will be dipped in the Fire (of Hell), while the most destitute people in this world, who are believers, will be dipped in Paradise.”
He emphasized that perseverance and unwavering faith in times of adversity are crucial, as true rewards and punishments await in the hereafter rather than in this fleeting world.
“By preparing for trial periods, Muslims can navigate life’s challenges with confidence and faith, ultimately strengthening their relationship with Allah,” he added.
In his remarks, the first Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland, Chief Saheed Oladele, commended the Ile Alfa Sons and Daughters for their dedication to organizing the annual Ramadan lecture.
Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Dr. Rasheed Fasasi, noted in his welcome address that the event serves as a spiritual gathering to seek Allah’s forgiveness for departed members of the family while attracting divine mercy for the living.
The Family Head, Alagba Dauda Adeyemo, expressed gratitude to all attendees and contributors, acknowledging the collective efforts that made the annual event a success.
