They Resented Them Only Because They Believed in Allah — Tested Because of Faith

Verse: "They resented them only because they believed in Allah, the Exalted in Might, the Praiseworthy"

Reflection:
The story of the People of the Trench: trenches were dug and they were burned alive because they believed in Allah. The verse places its finger on the wound: they committed no crime, wronged no one, stole nothing — their only offence was faith.

"Naqamu" (resented): From naqma meaning intense hatred and blame. That is: they found nothing to hate in them except their faith.

The context of trial: The righteous are sometimes tested simply because of their righteousness — not because they erred. Do not always interpret calamity as punishment for sin.

Al-Sadi said: "This is among the most astonishing things — that a person is punished for the most perfect quality and finest trait, which is belief in Allah."

Allah's promise to the tested believers: "Indeed, those who have tortured the believing men and women and then have not repented — for them is the punishment of Hell." The reckoning is complete and the oppressor will not escape.

Lesson: If someone harms you for your commitment to your religion, it is a signature on the soundness of your faith — be patient, for your judgement rests in the hand of the Exalted in Might, the Praiseworthy, not in the hand of the oppressor.