14/06/2026
Assalaamu Alaikum
A Reflection on Optimism
The Prophet ﷺ said: “And I am pleased by optimism (al-fa’l).” They asked: “What is optimism?” He said: “The good word.”
Optimism (al-fa’l): It is hoping for good from Allah, and it contains good expectations of Him, the Exalted. The Muslim is optimistic that his future condition will be better than his present day, that Allah will compensate him for what he has missed, and that he will overcome whatever trials he faces at the time that Allah, the Exalted, has decreed. “Allah has set a measure for everything” (Quran 65:3) - meaning: He has set for everything, whether hardship or ease, an appointed time at which it will end.
Al-Mawardi said: “Optimism strengthens resolve, motivates diligence, and aids in achieving victory. The Prophet ﷺ was optimistic in his military expeditions and battles.”
Sheikh Muhammad ibn Uthaymin said: "Always keep yourself in a state of optimism. What Allah wills will come to pass. Be joyful, happy, and broad-chested. The world before you is vast, and the path is open - this is what is good.
As for pessimism, constriction, and a person worrying about everything - this will make the world narrow for him. If you see a person distressed, with the world closing in on him and matters overwhelming him, say to him: ‘Rejoice in relief!’ Because the Prophet ﷺ says: 'Know that victory comes with patience, relief comes with distress, and with hardship comes ease.'
These are the words of the Messenger ﷺ who does not speak from his own desire. So if you see your brother in distress, tell him: ‘Rejoice, for relief is near!’ And if you see him in hardship, tell him: ‘Ease is near!’ As Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with them both, said: 'One hardship will never overcome two eases.'
The point is that a person should bring joy and good news to his brothers so that they may be happy, energized, hopeful, and anticipate relief." [End quote]
🔻 Be optimistic and distance sadness from yourself as much as you can. Sadness scatters thoughts, embitters life, and may weaken the servant’s journey toward Allah.
The Prophet ﷺ used to frequently make this supplication:
"O Allah, I seek refuge in You from worry and grief."
Fold away the sad pages of the past and painful memories. As it is said: “The file of the past, for the wise, is folded and not retold.”
Rise up and face life with good expectations of the gifts of your Generous Lord. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Allah says: ‘I am as My servant thinks of Me…’"
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Have you forgotten how many distresses befell you, which you pondered over with worry, your soul constricted - then suddenly Allah’s relief arrived?
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How much good has Allah brought to you that never crossed your mind would one day be yours?
For Allah has command before and after.
Translated by أم يحيى نليفة طاهر
