Why Patient Ones Are Rewarded More than Believers
This is according to Mohsen Faqihi, speaking at a session on interpretation of Verse 151 of Surah Al-Baqarah. Following are excerpts from his remarks:
God says in Verse 151 of Surah Al-Baqarah: “It is they who will receive blessings and mercy from God and who follow the right guidance.”
This comes after a number of verses about Sabireen, including Verse 155: “We shall test you through fear, hunger, loss of life, property, and crops. (Muhammad), give glad news to the people who have patience.”
The Sabireen have a greater status compared to believers. There are verses in the Quran talking about believers and the assets that they have and the blessings that they receive as a result of seeking God’s pleasure. However, the Quran speaks more highly of the Sabireen.
There are good people who have not been tested through adversities and tragedies. They are not among Sabireen.
The Quran uses the phrase Yusalla (greets) about believers but the phrase used for Sabireen is God’s Salawat (God’s greetings).
A person who has properties, does not live in poverty, and has not had the opportunity for Jihad, is a good person if he fulfills his religious obligations such as saying prayers and fasting. Yet, he has not gone through adversities that require patience. But when a person who lives in poverty, fights with the enemies of God and his life and properties are in danger says prayers and does Mustahabi (recommended) deeds, that person’s actins are more valuable. When someone passes such a test, God gives him the good news of divine mercy and guidance.
So according to this verse, Sabireen receive greetings and blessing from God.
