When we are sick, sad or going through a hard time, the story of Prophet Ayyub (AS) (Job) gives us hope. Allah praised him in the Quran with beautiful words: "Indeed, We found him patient. What an excellent servant! Indeed, he constantly turned back to Allah." (Surah Sad, 38:44)
His Story in Short
Ayyub (AS) was a righteous man whom Allah tested with a long illness and the loss of his wealth and family. Through all of it he kept remembering Allah and never complained about his Lord. He remained grateful in good times and patient in hard times.
His Beautiful Dua
"Anni massaniyad-durru wa anta arhamur-rahimin."
"Indeed, adversity has touched me, and You are the Most Merciful of the merciful." (Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:83)
Allah answered him: He removed his illness and gave him back his family and more, "as a mercy from Us and a reminder for the worshippers." (21:84)
What Is Real Patience (Sabr)?
- Patience at the first moment: the Prophet ? said, "Patience is at the first stroke of calamity." (Sahih al-Bukhari, 1283; Sahih Muslim, 926)
- Complaining to Allah, not about Allah: Ayyub (AS) told Allah about his pain in dua � that is allowed and beloved.
- Good comes either way: "How wonderful is the affair of the believer� if something good happens he is thankful, and if harm reaches him he is patient, and that is good for him." (Sahih Muslim, 2999)
Patience in Everyday Life
- Waiting your turn without getting angry.
- Keeping calm when a sibling breaks your toy.
- Continuing your Quran lessons even when a surah feels difficult.
- For adults: staying gentle with family when work is stressful.
For Kids: Patience Jar
Each time you stay patient instead of getting upset, put a small stone or bead in a jar. When the jar is full, celebrate with your family � and remember Prophet Ayyub (AS)!
Quick Quiz
- Which Prophet is famous for his patience in illness? (Prophet Ayyub, AS)
- In which surah is his dua? (Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:83)
- What is the Arabic word for patience? (Sabr)
Learn the Stories of the Prophets
Our Islamic Studies lessons teach the stories of the Prophets alongside Quran reading.
Tehfiz-ul-Quran Academy offers one-on-one online Quran classes for children and adults, scheduled in your time zone. Book a 3-day free trial.