Fate: Trial or Reward? A Lifetime Journey

Every human being has brought his own unique story to this mysterious passage of the world. Some people’s lives are another name for peace, while others’ days are filled with trials. In such a situation, a question often arises in our hearts:

Fate: Trial or Reward? A Lifetime Journey

“Was my fate really written like this?”

This question is not just a sentence but a mirror of an entire thought. A journey that leads a person towards Allah, towards his destiny, and towards the reality of his efforts.  Fate: Trial or Reward? A Lifetime Journey

What is fate?

Fate, destiny, or destiny—all three words point to the same reality:

The knowledge and decision of Allah Almighty that He has predetermined for every human being.

But this does not mean at all that man is forced or that nothing is in his hands. The Quran and Hadith teach us that

“Allah has power over all things, and He rewards and punishes every human being according to his deeds.”

That is, our decisions, intentions, and efforts also become part of our destiny.  Fate: Trial or Reward? A Lifetime Journey

Prayer and Hard Work: The Key to Opening the Doors of Destiny:

Most people think that what is destined to happen will happen, so why should they try? But Islam takes us out of this thinking. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

“Prayer changes destiny, even if it has already passed.”

(Tirmidhi)

Similarly, Hazrat Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) said:

“We cannot escape destiny, but we can escape to the mercy of Allah through prayer and action.”

Hard work, positive intention, and sincere prayer—these three things have such power that they open even closed doors.  Fate: Trial or Reward? A Lifetime Journey

Trial: Is it bad luck?

When we face any hardship or failure, we immediately start blaming our destiny.

But the truth is:

“Allah tests whom He loves.”

(Bukhari)

That is, every hardship, every obstacle, every delay—all of this is a test from Allah, and perhaps that test is to teach us something, improve us, or save us.

“And it is possible that you dislike a thing while it is good for you.”

(Surah Al-Baqarah: 216)

The Journey of Positive Thinking and Tawakkul:

A person of faith always puts Tawakkul (trust). He knows that

If something did not reach him, it was not for him.

And whatever he received was for his own good, even if he did not understand it.

Tawakkul does not mean that we give up trying; rather, it means that we work hard from the heart and leave the result to Allah.  Fate: Trial or Reward? A Lifetime Journey

The Secret of Destiny: The Power of Intention:

Our intention is the first step to our destiny. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

“Actions depend on intentions.”

(Bukhari and Muslim)

A good intention, even with a small action, can be a source of great blessings.

Similarly, a bad intention, even with a big action, does not bring blessings. 

Finally… Should we believe in fate?

Yes, believing in fate is part of faith. But belief alone is not enough—faith means

Trusting in Allah,

Working hard,

And being patient and grateful in all circumstances.

Fate: Trial or Reward? A Lifetime Journey

So whether life is easy or difficult, fate seems good or bad, we have to believe that:

“Allah’s mercy encompasses everything, and His knowledge is far higher than our thoughts.” Fate: Trial or Reward? A Lifetime Journey

A supplication:

“O Allah! Grant us a fate that will bring us closer to You, purify our intentions, and accept our hard work. Amen.”