good for him. If prosperity comes his way, he gives thanks, and that is good for him. If adversity befalls him, he is patient, and that is good for him.”

If he experiences either of these, both are among Allah’s blessings upon him. Both blessings require patience as well as gratitude. The need for patience in the blessing of adversity is clear. As for the blessing of prosperity, it requires perseverance in obedience to Allah amid that prosperity.

Indeed, the trial of prosperity is greater than the trial of adversity. As some of the early generations said: “We were tested with adversity and remained patient; we were tested with prosperity and failed to remain patient.” It is stated in the hadith:

“I seek refuge in You from the trial of poverty and the evil of the trial of wealth.”

Many people remain upright in poverty, whereas only a smaller number remain upright in wealth. This is why most of those who enter Paradise are poor: the trial of poverty is easier to bear. Both conditions require patience and gratitude. However, because prosperity brings pleasure and adversity brings pain, gratitude is commonly associated with prosperity, and patience with adversity. Allah, the Exalted, said:

“And if We let man taste mercy from Us and then withdraw it from him, he is indeed despairing and ungrateful.”

“And if We let him taste prosperity after adversity has touched him, he will surely say, ‘Hardships have left me.’