the messengers who were sent.
Created things thus contain blessings, in that through them people attain guidance and faith, draw lessons, and take heed. These are the greatest blessings, for the greatest blessing is faith. Every created thing is a sign through which this blessing is attained. He, the Exalted, said:
“Indeed, in their stories is a lesson for people of understanding.”
And He, the Exalted, said:
“As insight and a reminder for every servant who turns to Him.”
Whatever befalls a person, if it pleases him, is an evident blessing. If it distresses him, it is nevertheless a blessing because it expiates his sins, he is rewarded for bearing it patiently, and it contains wisdom and mercy of which he is unaware:
“Perhaps you dislike something which is good for you, and perhaps you love something which is bad for you. Allah knows, and you do not know.”
It is also stated in the hadith: “By Allah, Allah decrees nothing for the believer unless it is