Chapter 7 - On Contentment

Imam Sadiq (a.s) said: “The most important aspect of obedience to God is being content with and being patient with what God has decreed whether we like it or not. And when one is content with what God has decreed for him, whether he likes it or not, that which is decreed is best for him.”

“I swear by My Majesty and My Honor that I have not created any creature dearer to Me than a believer. That is why I put My own name (believer) on him. He should be content with My action if I deprive him of whatever lies between the East and the west, or if I bestow on him whatever exists between the East and the West. He should be patient with any catastrophes that I descend upon him, and he should be grateful for My blessings. O' Muhammad! Please record his name among the honest ones near Me.”

Imam Sadiq (a.s) said: “God can fulfill people's needs through means in the hands of other people. Whoever gets what he needs should be content, patient and accept it from God.”

“Those people are so wise and knowledgeable that they are nearly in the position of Prophets.” Then he faced them and said: “Then if you are what you claim to be, do not build what you will not live in; do not collect what you will not eat; and fear God to whom is your return.”

Imam Sajjad (a.s) said: “Perseverance and contentment with divine destiny are the highest forms of God's worship. God will only destine what is beneficial for those who are patient and content with what God destines for them-whether they like it or not.”