Of course, it is never easy when the storm hits and you are suddenly engulfed in darkness, consumed with rain and thunder and no way to get out. You try to call for help, but you realise there is no human there to save you, no way to stop the rain from seeping in and no way to stop the boat from sinking. You look around and find that there are no emergency supplies, and you begin to realise with every call you make, your boat is sinking further into what seems endless darkness. 

It is in that moment, after exhausting all other means, you look up.

You call upon God.

وَقَالَ رَبُّكُمُ ٱدْعُونِىٓ أَسْتَجِبْ لَكُمْ 

“And your Lord says, “Call upon Me; I will respond to you.” – [40:60 Saheeh International]

There is no doubt that in this world we face challenges that are accustomed to our everyday life, and that in trying to maintain a societal friendly facade whilst battling these challenges, we begin to question what is around us. It is in these very moments where tawakkul is so very important, and we can look at stories of the past as paradigms of tawakkul.

Tawakkul is standing in front of the red sea with the advancing army behind, just as Prophet Musa A.S. did, and not concerning.

Tawakkul is running between two mountains in attempt to find water, just as Hajar A.S. did, after being stranded in an open desert with your baby, but having untouched conviction and a full reliance that Allah SWT is with you.

And tawakkul is also in waiting for the results of an exam you have so heavily revised for, waiting on our parent’s response about a marriage proposal, or perhaps we simply feel misunderstood as an individual, and are waiting for the feeling of peace to precede the feelings of doubt and pain.

It is important to distinguish between tawakkul (توكل) and tawaakul (تواكل). Tawakkul is the complete trust in Allah swt, whilst tawaakul, on the other hand, comprises elements of laziness, inability, a resigned attitude.

Having tawakkul does not mean that we can not put in our efforts, given that we have the capacity of doing so, and depend on Allah SWT to provide a way out. It simply means doing our best, which looks different for each person. 

And so I ask you, 

Do you think that Allah does not know? That He does not see the effort and struggles you go through? He is Al-Khabir, The All Aware. Do you assume he has given you a test that he thinks you will not pass? 

Allah is the most sincere, and He loves you more than you may know it, so believe that your duas will come true if they are what’s best for you – 

you must show trust and faith, better days will come In Sha Allah.