The Story of Job, peace be upon him

Job was one of the prophets sent to the Children of Israel, counted among the noble elect. Allah mentions him in His Book, praising him for praiseworthy qualities in general and for his steadfast patience in particular. Allah tried him through his children, his family, and his wealth, and then through his very body, subjecting him to a tribulation such as no other human being had suffered. Yet he remained patient with the divine decree, constantly turning back to Allah.

When his severe illness dragged on and friend and relative alike neglected him, he called upon his Lord: “Indeed, adversity has touched me, and You are the Most Merciful of the merciful” (Al-Anbiya 83). He was told, “Strike [the ground] with your foot” (Saad 42). He struck, and at once a spring of cool water burst forth. It was said to him, “Drink from it and bathe.” He did so, and Allah removed every trace of affliction from both his inner and outer being, restored to him his family and his wealth, and granted him abundant blessings besides. Through that patience he became a model for those who persevere, a comfort for the afflicted, and a lesson for all who take heed.

During his illness he had grown displeased with his righteous, compassionate wife over a certain matter and swore that he would strike her one hundred lashes. Allah, however, lightened the matter for both of them and said, “Take in your hand a bundle”—a sheaf of grass, fodder, or twig stalks (1) and the like—“containing one hundred sticks; strike with it, and do not break your oath” (Saad 44). Thus his oath was fulfilled without harming her.