Why Do Some People Suffer More Than Me?

Your question, “Why do some people suffer more than me?”, is a profound and fundamental inquiry that touches upon the very essence of human existence, our understanding of divine justice, and the purpose of suffering. The Holy Quran, as the revealed word of God, offers comprehensive insights into this matter, helping us to comprehend the concepts of suffering, affliction, trials, and divine justice. This question is not only about the pain of others but also about our own place in this world and our relationship with our Creator. The Quran’s response to this query is multi-faceted and rich in spiritual wisdom, capable of bringing solace and guidance, helping us to gain a broader perspective on life’s hardships. One of the pivotal concepts the Quran introduces in response to this question is that of “Ibtila’” or trial/test. The Quran explicitly states that worldly life is fundamentally a series of tests, and Allah tests His servants with both good and evil. These trials manifest in various forms: sometimes through poverty, sometimes through wealth; sometimes through illness, sometimes through health; sometimes through fear, and sometimes through security. The ultimate purpose of these tests is to gauge human faith, patience, gratitude, and sincerity. It is not the case that all individuals are tested with the same type or intensity of hardship. Each person is tested according to their capacity, potential, and spiritual standing. For believers, trials can serve as a means of purifying sins, elevating their status, and bringing them closer to Allah, while for disbelievers, they might be an opportunity for repentance and return, or a warning for the consequences of their actions. The reason why some individuals seem to suffer more could be because their trials are more severe, and consequently, their reward will be greater if they endure with patience and steadfastness and fulfill their duties as servants of Allah. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 155, Allah says: “And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.” This verse clearly indicates that suffering and hardship are an intrinsic part of worldly life, and these afflictions serve as instruments to test human beings. These tests are not solely for punishment; rather, they provide opportunities for spiritual growth and elevation. In Surah Al-Ankabut, verses 2 and 3, we also read: “Do people think that they will be left alone because they say, 'We believe,' and will not be tested? ۝ But We have certainly tested those before them, and Allah will surely make evident those who are truthful, and He will surely make evident the liars.” These verses explicitly state that the testing of faith is inevitable. Another crucial concept here is “Divine Wisdom” (Hikmah Ilahiyyah). As human beings with limited knowledge, we cannot fully grasp all the dimensions and reasons behind every event. Allah, the Exalted, is the All-Knowing and All-Wise, and all His actions and decrees are based on boundless justice and wisdom. What we perceive as apparent suffering might, in reality, contain immense good and serve as a prelude to eternal bliss. This teaches us not to judge affairs solely by their superficial appearance but to have faith in the wisdom beyond them. Every individual in this world has their unique role and standing, and their trials are tailored to that role and their capabilities. Patience (Sabr) and Gratitude (Shukr) are two paramount virtues that the Quran emphasizes profoundly when confronting hardships. Those who exercise patience in the face of calamities and, simultaneously, express gratitude for blessings, receive immense rewards from Allah. The Quran states: “Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account” (Surah Az-Zumar, verse 10). This implies that sufferings can be a means of expiating sins, elevating spiritual ranks, and attaining boundless divine rewards. Sometimes, Allah tests a specific person with more afflictions, not because they are more sinful, but because they possess a greater capacity and potential for patience and for achieving a higher station of closeness to Allah. In fact, prophets and great religious figures have endured the most severe trials, which signifies the greatness of their spiritual stations. Furthermore, it should not be forgotten that sometimes sufferings are a direct consequence of human actions and choices. The Quran explicitly states that calamities and misfortunes can sometimes be the result of human sins and transgressions, serving as a reminder or a wake-up call to return to the straight path. “And whatever strikes you of disaster - it is because of what your [own] hands have earned, and He pardons much” (Surah Ash-Shura, verse 30). This verse indicates that a portion of sufferings might be due to our own conduct, but this does not mean that every suffering is merely a punishment for sin. As mentioned earlier, many sufferings are for the purpose of testing and elevation of rank and are not necessarily related to sins. Allah emphasizes in the Quran that no soul is burdened beyond its capacity: “Allah does not burden a soul beyond its scope” (Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 286). Additionally, we must acknowledge the transient nature of this worldly life. This world is a fleeting and temporary abode, and its joys and sorrows are not everlasting. The true reward and punishment reside in the Hereafter, where absolute divine justice will be fully implemented. One who has endured many sufferings in this world with patience and faith will receive an immense reward in the afterlife, to the extent that they might wish their sufferings in the world had been even greater to earn more reward. Conversely, one who has been immersed in worldly pleasures and neglected the remembrance of Allah might face irreparable hardships in the Hereafter. This perspective helps us to see worldly sufferings within a broader framework and understand the value and importance of patience in facing them. In summary, the variation in the amount of suffering and ease among human beings in this world is part of the divine plan for testing, nurturing, and guiding humanity. These differences are not necessarily indicative of discrimination or injustice; rather, each individual is tested according to their unique circumstances and divine decree. Sufferings can be a means of purifying sins, increasing spiritual degrees, and drawing closer to Allah. Our duty in the face of these disparities is not to complain, but to reflect on divine wisdom, cultivate patience, and express gratitude for blessings. Moreover, these differences invite us to show empathy and offer help to those who suffer more, fostering the growth of ethical virtues in society. Ultimately, by having faith in Allah’s absolute justice and the true reward and accountability in the Hereafter, we can find peace and contentment within ourselves, even when facing the greatest of sufferings. This Quranic perspective helps us to not only place our own struggles within a broader meaningful framework but also to look at the sufferings of others with deeper compassion and understanding and play our part in alleviating their pain.