UNLIMITED REWARD

Patience Unlimited

SAY, [God says] O My servants who have believed, fear your Lord. For those who do good in this world will have a good reward and God's earth is spacious. Truly, those who persevere patiently will be requited without measure. (39: 10).

It may seem extraordinary that God should give an unlimited reward for any deed. But it is only one—that is, patience, that is so singled out. There are two kinds of actions: in one, very ordinary character is exhibited. For instance, if someone is good to you, he receives good treatment from you in return. People of quite ordinary character behave in this way without feeling it necessary to exercise any patience or forbearance. In the second kind of action a very high level of character is exhibited where even if one receives bad treatment one gives good in return.

However, one inclined to embark on the second kind of action is required to adhere strictly to religious guidelines which enjoin restraint among others, and he must do so whether the circumstances be favourable or unfavourable to him. This is the path of patience.

That is, even when someone is unkind to you, you are good to him. Even if he adopts a provocative stance, you remain moderate in your behaviour. Even if observance of the truth will be detrimental to your interests, you continue to adhere to the path of truth and justice. Even if the adoption of an unprincipled stand appears advantageous, you continue to be a man of principle. It is the practitioners of that aspect of religion which demands patience who will be ‘requited without measure.’