REAL-LIFE TESTS OF HUMAN BEINGS FROM AN ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

The paper discusses real-life tests undergone by human beings from the Islamic perspective. The purpose of this research paper is to explore natural tests for humans as part of sunnatullāh (Allāh’s way) and Allāh’s decree. The life tests that Allāh decides for humans have a purpose with various types of tests that occur. For accommodating the data, library research method has been used to structure this paper with relevant sources including verses of Qurʾān, ḥadīths, books and journal articles. It is obtained that the tests of life are in the form of physical trials, social and community trials, psychological and spiritual trials with fitnah of doubts, lusts and desire, also trials from Satan. Every tribulation in life has purposes and benefits, such as to distinguish true believers from disbelievers and hypocrites, for reawakening of the fitrah, to make humans turn to Allāh and exercise humility, for strengthening belief in Allāh’s qadar, to expiate sins, to grow spiritually and for purification of the soul, for increasing good deeds, rewards, rank in Paradise and as the punishment for sins and disobedience.