Q. I see many Muslims who flagrantly sin are enjoying life. They have wealth and appear to be happy. On the other hand, I see many pious Muslims in difficult conditions. They follow the Sunnah yet they are struggling. What explanation is there for this?

A. The prosperous life of flagrant sinners is called Istidraaj. That is, Allah Ta’ala is giving them line to run along. Suddenly the line will run out and they will be overtaken by punishment. Never be misled by the prosperous life of sinners and kuffaar. Allah Ta’ala will severely apprehend them. Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “The dunya is a prison for the Mu’min and a jannat for the kaafir.” The difficulties experienced by the pious cleanse them, bring them closer to Allah Ta’ala and treasures are stored for them in Jannat. This life is short and full of struggle and trials. In the Qur’aan Majeed, Allah Ta’ala says that one should not cast longing eyes at the worldly prosperity and glitter of those who are doomed for destruction in the Aakhirat.