Why does God test believers who are assiduous in worship with illnesses and tribulations, while the disobedient enjoy the pleasures of life?

The question about the affliction of the believer and the well-being of the disobedient person can be addressed in two ways:

1. As an objection: This indicates the questioner's ignorance, for Allah is more knowing, wiser, and more powerful than our minds can comprehend His wisdom. We know very little even about the soul within us. Therefore, we must submit fully to His decree.

2. As seeking guidance: The affliction of the believer has two great benefits: Testing their faith: To distinguish the true believer who endures patiently and seeks reward, making the calamity easier for them. Attaining the rank of the patient ones: Allah has praised them and promised them a reward without measure. This is a high rank that cannot be achieved except through patience. This is why the Prophet (peace be upon him) was afflicted with illness, so that he might attain the status of patience.

As for the well-being and sustenance of the disobedient and disbelievers, it is a gradual enticement (istidraj). The world is the prison of the believer and the paradise of the disbeliever. They hasten to enjoy their good things in this world so that they may receive punishment in the Hereafter. As for the believer, they move from the abode of harm to multiplied bliss.