Page 26 - Prayer in the Qur'an

24 PRAYER IN THE QUR'AN

swers the prayer, not in the way we necessarily expect, but in the
way deemed by Him to be most just. It may well be that, in order for
a believer to grow in wisdom, Allah may not answer his prayer in
the way he wishes, or until He prepares his character so he is ready
for it. It may also be that Allah will replace his wish with something

that is better, meanwhile, testing his patience and loyalty. Indeed,
Allah recommends us to be steadfast in prayer:
Seek help in steadfastness and prayer. But that is a very hard
thing, except for the humble. (Surat al-Baqara: 45)
In the Qur'an, Allah advises us to be resolute in prayer. Prayer is
an act of worship and patience in prayer is important for the suppli-
cant. A resolute prayer during times of adversity is a sign that one
sorely needs an answer for that prayer, and more importantly, it
draws one closer to Allah. It makes a believer grow in wisdom, will

and character. A believer persevering in prayer receives an answer
to his prayer in the form of a soul that is close to Allah, and this is an
answer much more precious than many of the things one may ask
for.
In some cases, many prophets prayed to Allah persistently for
long years and their prayers were ultimately answered: the Prophet
Ya'qub's (as) meeting his son (the Prophet Yusuf (as)) after years;
the Prophet Yusuf's release from the prison where he was held for
years and his being made the head of the Treasury and the way
Allah eventually removed the severe afflictions from the Prophet
Ayyub (as) who had suffered uncomplainingly, are all significant

examples of patience.
Allah responded to these noble people's prayers only after some
time for a specific purpose: He made them grow in wisdom; grow
strong in character, patience and sincerity; and made them servants