Is a person always tested through the one he loves?

“A person is always tested through the one he loves.”
- Is it true and is it a hadith?

Dear Brother / Sister,

We have not been able to find a hadith narration stating, “A person is always tested through the one he loves.”

However, the statement ‘A person is always tested through the one he loves’ is true. It is expressed as follows in some verses:  

“And know ye that your possessions and your progeny are but a trial; and that it is Allah with Whom lies your highest reward.” (al-Anfal, 8/28)

“Be sure we shall test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods or lives or the fruits (of your toil), but give glad tidings to those who patiently persevere!” (al-Baqara, 2/155)

It is understood from the verses above that man is tested with what he loves most.

In addition, it is stated in some hadiths that Allah tests His beloved slaves.

“The ones who are tested the most severely among people are prophets. Then, those who follow them (in terms of their ranks) and then those who follow them.” (Musnad, 1/172, 174, 180, 185, 6:369)

“The greatest reward comes with the greatest trial. When Allah loves a society, He tests them. Whoever accepts it wins His pleasure but whoever is discontent with it receives His wrath.” (Ibn Majah, Fitan 23, hadith no: 4034)

“When Allah loves a slave, He prevents him from the world, just as one of you prevents his sick people from water.” (Tirmidhi, Tibb 1, hadith no: 2107)

Thus, we are tested through what we love and we will continue to be tested; it should not be forgotten that if we are tested, it means Allah loves us.

What matters is to be aware of it and to show consent to being tested.

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