Job

Ayyub was blessed beyond measure: immense wealth, numerous children, perfect health, a reputation as a just and generous man. He was the model of the fulfilled believer. But the trials of this world do not spare the pious — they are sometimes reserved for them first. The hadith reports that the prophets are the most severely tested. Allah allowed misfortunes to fall upon Ayyub in successive waves. First his wealth, then his children, finally his health. A terrible illness struck him — the Quran says he was touched by "affliction" without specifying its exact nature: ulcers, sores, intense suffering. Traditions mention a duration of eighteen years of trial. His wife, who remained faithful, worked to feed him. Some friends and relatives abandoned him. Theologians have speculated that this trial was meant to demonstrate that Ayyub's faith was pure — with no connection to his material blessings.