How to make Dua: Tip #23

To complain only to Allah

A Muslim understands that if all the beings in the world gathered to benefit or harm him, they cannot do either without the permission of Allah, thus one should only complain to Allah

The true Muslim submits all of his affairs to Allah, without complaining to anyone else, in order to gain their sympathy and pity. The Prophets of Allah, whenever they were in severe situations and extenuating circumstances, would turn to Allah, and show their need of Allah’s help.

When Zakariyya grew old, and was not blessed with any progeny, he cried out: “O My Lord! Do not leave me alone (without progeny), and you are the best of inheritors.” [The Qur’an: Surah al-Anbiya 21:89]

When Ibrahim left his wife and child in the middle of the desert, without any support or help, he prayed to Allah, describing their pitiful situation: “O My Lord! I have left my family to live in a valley that has no fruits, close to your Sacred House, so that they may establish the prayer. Our Lord! Therefore cause a group to love them, and provide them with fruits so that they may give thanks. [The Qur’an: Surah Ibrahim 14:37]

When Prophet Ayyub was tried and tested by Allah, and his family and wealth were taken away from him, to such an extent that even his body suffered a terrible disease, he cried out: “O My Lord! Verily, some harm has afflicted me, and You are the Most Merciful of all those who are merciful.” [The Qur’an Surah al-Anbiya 21:83]

When Musa fled from Egypt to avoid Pharaoh, and was all alone in the Valley of Midian, with no helper or aid, he prayed: “O My Lord! Verily, I am needy to whatever good that You send down to me.” [The Qur’an: Surah al-Qasas 28:24]

And when Ya’qub did not know of the fate of his favourite son Yusuf, and his oldest son stayed behind in Egypt, while Yusuf’s brother Ben Yamin was also taken captive, all he could cry out was: “Verily, I only complain of my grief and sorrow to Allah!” [The Qur’an Surah Yusuf 12:86]

So it is important that one turns only to Allah, and complains of ones situation only to Him. For what value is there in turning to another created being, who cannot benefit or harm without Allah’s help?