Is there a contradiction between the hastening of punishment in this world for one whom God wills good, and well-being (al-ʿāfiyah), which is the absence of punishment in this world and the Hereafter?

The noble Hadith: "If Allah intends good for His servant, He hastens the punishment for him in this world, and if He intends ill for His servant, He withholds the punishment for his sin until He settles accounts with him on the Day of Resurrection" is authentic and does not contradict asking Allah for well-being (al-afiyah). People are of three types: 1. Those with Absolute Well-being: These are the ones whom Allah grants well-being in this world and the Hereafter. This is the highest rank, and the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) frequently supplicated for it. 2. Believers Who Commit Sins: If Allah intends good for them, He hastens their punishment in this world to purify them. This is better than delaying the punishment to the Hereafter, but it is not permissible to wish for affliction. 3. Those Who Exceed Limits in Disobedience: If Allah does not hasten their punishment in this world, it is a gradual enticement for them, so that their torment in the Hereafter may increase.

Thus, complete well-being in this world and the Hereafter is the best, but if Allah decrees worldly punishment, it is better than delaying it to the Hereafter.