The Test of True Success: Remaining Steadfast in Faith
In today’s world, it is essential to grasp a fundamental principle: those whom the West endorses are those who have earned its approval. However, if someone gains the approval of the West, they are unlikely to be walking the path that pleases the Lord of all worlds Allah, the Most High. To believe otherwise would contradict the Qur’an—and Allah, the Most High, is free from all falsehood.
Understanding Their Schemes
Allah has revealed the way these powers operate—they act according to their desires and interests. When they deem someone “unsuitable,” it is often a sign that this person is, in fact, the most suitable in the sight of Allah.
This knowledge saves us from unnecessary confusion. There is no need to analyze every situation exhaustively, for Allah has already provided us with the key:
“Indeed, Allah’s guidance is the only guidance.”
(Al-Baqarah: 120)
They Will Never Stop
It is crucial to recognize that the efforts of those who oppose the truth are relentless. Allah makes this clear:
“And they will continue to fight you until they turn you away from your faith if they can.”
(Al-Baqarah: 217)
This verse highlights the unending nature of their opposition. In the eloquence of the Arabic language, it conveys how far they will go to deter believers:
- If there is one word left to say, they will say it.
- If there is one stance left to take, they will take it.
- If there is one dollar left to spend, they will spend it to turn you away from your faith.
This is the reality we must prepare for: relentless opposition designed to divert us from the path of Allah.
The Key to True Victory
The solution to overcoming this pressure lies in steadfastness, just as Musa (Moses, peace be upon him) remained firm during his trials. True victory is not measured by worldly gains or recognition but by unwavering commitment to the truth, no matter the cost.
In Islam, victory does not always align with conventional success. Allah reminds us in Surah Al-Burooj that real success lies in remaining steadfast in faith, even under the most severe trials. Allah declares:
“That is the great triumph.”
(Al-Burooj: 11)
Victory Defined in the Qur’an
In Surah Al-Burooj, believers who were thrown into a burning trench for holding on to their faith were not described as failures, despite their apparent worldly defeat. On the contrary, Allah refers to their outcome as “the great triumph.” This teaches us that, in Allah’s sight, success is not determined by worldly victories but by the strength to remain firm in faith until the very end.
The Reality of the Journey
As Muslims, we must also understand that even the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was not promised that he would witness the full victory of his mission during his lifetime. Allah says:
“Whether We show you part of what We threaten them with, or cause you to die [before it happens], your duty is only to deliver [the message].”
(Yunus: 46)
Victory may not come in our lifetime. This journey is not about when or how we die—since death is inevitable for all of us. Rather, the true test lies in remaining firm upon the faith of the Lord of all creation, no matter the challenges.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Triumph
True victory, as defined by Allah, is not in wealth, status, or worldly success. It is in staying firm on the path of truth, regardless of opposition. Whether we live to witness victory or pass away before it comes is irrelevant. What matters is that we remain steadfast, holding firmly to the faith that Allah has entrusted to us.
The reward for such unwavering commitment is clear:
“That is the great triumph.”
(Al-Burooj: 11)
So, brothers and sisters, let us prepare for the trials ahead. The path may be long, and the challenges may seem overwhelming, but true success lies in standing firm until the very end.
(Adapted from the words of Sheikh Abdul Muhsin Al-Ahmad)
By Abu Ahmed farid
Farid_dcb@yahoo.com